Svetlana Loboda’s $15 Million Performance for Russia’s Copper Mountain Queen

Once a shining star in Russia’s music scene, Svetlana Loboda’s concerts drew thousands, and her songs topped the charts. However, 2022 marked a turning point. After relocating abroad, Loboda has been striving to rebuild her career, but her recent tracks haven’t gained significant traction.

Loboda insists she won’t return to Russia for any fee. Yet, financial needs persist, leading her to perform for Russian expatriates. This decision has sparked numerous debates, especially her recent performance at the birthday party of Russian businesswoman Elena Drobina for a staggering $15 million.

Elena Drobina: The Copper Mountain Queen

Drobina, formerly the general director of Kuzbassrazrezugol and Razrez Yuzhny, now heads UK Anzherskaya-Yuzhnaya and LLC Resource. In 2024, these companies generated a combined revenue of 22 billion rubles. Online, Drobina is often referred to as the ‘Copper Mountain Queen’ of Kuzbass.

Public Reaction and Political Backlash

The internet was quick to react. Comments ranged from ‘Did anyone really believe money wasn’t Loboda’s priority?’ to ‘Money doesn’t smell,’ and ‘Loboda will sing and speak Russian for the right price.’

Vitaly Borodin, head of the Federal Security Project, responded harshly, demanding Loboda be labeled a terrorist and extremist. He also called for an investigation into the concert organizers who paid her fee, putting Drobina under fire from patriotic Russians.

Loboda’s Lingering Ties to Russia

Despite her departure, Loboda maintains a connection to Russia through her unsold mansion in the Moscow region. Unlike other artists who lower prices to sell quickly, Loboda has increased her asking price.

Initially listed for 650 million rubles in 2023, the price rose to 850 million in December 2025, despite no buyers emerging. The estate includes a three-story classical-style mansion, a guest house, staff quarters, a three-car garage, and a 12-space parking lot, all hidden by a forest and fencing.

Loboda’s Lavish Estate

The main building spans 1,200-1,400 square meters, featuring four bedrooms, two dining rooms, a living room with access to an indoor pool, a library, a billiards room with a bar, a gym, and a spa complex with a Jacuzzi and sauna. The property also boasts an artificial pond with Japanese carps, a barbecue gazebo, and professional landscaping with hundreds of trees.

However, buying a mansion from a public figure who has openly criticized the country may be uncomfortable or ideologically unacceptable for many affluent Russians. Experts suggest that potential buyers could be fans or foreigners unaware of the seller’s status.

Public Opinion

Public opinion varies widely. Some criticize the choice of performer, while others see a connection between corruption and the spending of public funds. Some commenters appreciate Loboda’s unique appearance, while others question the wisdom of hiring her for such a high fee.