Stepan Higa, a beloved artist from Ukraine, passed away on December 12, 2025, at the age of 66. He was known for his significant contributions to the Ukrainian music scene. Higa was celebrated for his heartfelt songs and impressive musical talent.
Health Struggles Before His Passing
In November 2025, it was reported that Higa was in a critical condition following a complicated surgery. His hospitalization led him to cancel several scheduled concerts. His team announced that he needed time for recovery and rehabilitation.
On December 8, journalist Vitaliy Hlahola shared that Higa underwent a second surgery, resulting in the amputation of his leg due to severe complications. This emergency procedure was necessary to save his life, as his health had deteriorated dramatically after surgery.
Tragically, on December 12, news broke that Higa’s heart had stopped, marking the end of a remarkable life and career.
Life and Career of Stepan Higa
Stepan Petrovich Higa was born on November 16, 1959, in the village of Belky, located in Zakarpattia. He demonstrated musical talent from a young age, performing in school ensembles and learning to play the button accordion.
After school, he worked various jobs, including as a locksmith and driver, before serving in the military. He eventually pursued music, successfully enrolling at Uzhhorod Music College and later the Kyiv Conservatory.
Milestones in Music
Higa gained fame as a vocalist in the popular synth-group “Stozhary.” Despite offers from various institutions, he returned to Zakarpattia, where he became a soloist at the regional philharmonic. He went on to form the jazz-rock band “Beskyd” and later established his own studio, GIGARecords.
His debut album, “Drugi moyi,” released in 1995, set the stage for his future successes. In 2002, Higa’s album “Ulytsia Natali” received a “Golden Disc” for selling over a million copies. That same year, he was awarded the honorary title of People’s Artist of Ukraine.
Iconic Songs
Among Higa’s extensive repertoire, several songs became classics, solidifying his legacy in Ukrainian music. Notable tracks include:
- Yavoryna
- Son
- Zoloto Karpat
- Natalі
- Druzi moyi
- Vіvtar (Ya poklav svoє kohannya na vіvtar)
- Troyandy dlya tebe
- Za tebe vse vidadam
- Chorni troyandy
Personal Life and Legacy
Higa was private about his family life but was known to have been married twice. He had a daughter, Kvitoslava, from his first marriage, and a son, Stepan, with his second wife, Halyna. Higa’s family continues to pursue music, often performing together.
Towards the end of his career, Higa dedicated time to mentoring young musicians at the Uzhhorod Institute of Culture and Arts, sharing his extensive experience in the industry.
Stepan Higa leaves behind a rich legacy as one of the defining artists of Ukrainian pop music in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. His contributions to the cultural landscape of Ukraine will be remembered and cherished by future generations.
