Intars Busulis

Intars Busulis, born on May 2, 1978, in Talsi, is a Latvian singer, songwriter, and trombonist whose career spans jazz, pop, and rock. Busulis is one of Latvia’s most celebrated performers.

Intars Busulis started his musical journey by performing with his sister. Together, they sang a song called “Ūsainā puķe,” which means “Flower with Mustache” in Latvian. As a child, he also played in a children’s ensemble called “Talsu Sprīdīši.”

His professional music career began with Raimonds Tiguls’ project, the band “Caffe.” This group represented Latvia in Eurosong 2003 with the song “I am yours”. The band stayed active for four years. During this time, Intars was also a member of the NAF Headquarters Brass Orchestra and played in a jazz group called “Wet Point” with Vilnis Kundrāts.

In the spring of 2005, Intars participated in a special project led by Danish bass player Erik Moseholm. This project was called the European Youth Jazz Orchestra (E.Y.J.O.) and brought together talented young jazz musicians from across Europe.

Busulis initially gained fame in 2005 after winning the New Wave competition in Jurmala. Along with Agnese, he sang in Eirodziesma, the Latvian final for the Eurovision Song Contest. Two years later, he did the same, but now solo. His song “Gonki” was the runner up in the contest. In 2009, he represented Latvia in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Probka.” Latvia did not reach the final with this song.

Following Eurovision, Busulis shifted his focus to creating deeply personal and culturally resonant music. He continued collaborating with the acclaimed Latvian composer Kārlis Lācis, resulting in several critically acclaimed albums, including Nākamā pietura (2010) and Akvareļi (2013). These albums featured heartfelt lyrics and innovative arrangements, blending pop, jazz, and theatrical influences.

Busulis also became a prominent figure in Russia, frequently performing on television and participating in major musical events. He released several Russian-language singles and albums that resonated with audiences across Russian-speaking countries. Songs like “Облака” and “Сделай громче” showcased his vocal prowess and ability to adapt to different musical styles.

In Latvia, he solidified his reputation as a top live performer, headlining sold-out concerts and festivals. His theatrical performances, such as in the rock opera Lāčplēsis, further displayed his versatility.

Busulis is also a regular collaborator on the popular Jaunā Rīgas Teātra productions and a mentor on Latvia’s version of The Voice. Known for his vibrant stage presence and deep emotional connection with his music, Intars Busulis continues to be a leading figure in Latvian and Eastern European music, effortlessly bridging genres and languages.

In 2022, Busulis joined the duo Busans with Reinis Sējāns. They participated in Supernova, the national final for the Eurovision Song Contest. Their song “He, she, you & me” became 3rd.