The stage lights rise, and a quiet boy walks out — just 13 years old, wearing a shy smile and holding a microphone with both hands. No one in the audience knows his name yet. But within seconds, his voice will make everyone sit up straight.
That boy is Yaroslav Karpuk, and his performance on The Voice Kids Ukraine would become one of the most unforgettable moments in the show’s history. With the first notes of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley, the entire room falls silent. The judges exchange stunned looks, realizing they’re hearing something rare — a voice that sounds both youthful and incredibly mature at the same time.
A Hidden Voice That Astonished the Judges
It’s hard to believe that such a deep, controlled, and soulful tone could come from someone so young. At just 13, Yaroslav carried himself with the grace and composure of a much older performer. He even had a certain Elvis-like charm — the posture, the poise, the effortless calm.
“How can he be so classy, so gentlemanly at only thirteen?” one might wonder. But that’s what set him apart. Yaroslav didn’t try to impress with power; he sang with heart. His performance wasn’t loud — it was pure. And that made it impossible to ignore.
When he finished, the audience erupted in applause. The judges couldn’t hold back their admiration — some visibly emotional, all clearly amazed. His voice wasn’t just good for his age; it was phenomenal by any standard.
Roots of a Remarkable Talent
Born on May 4, 2005, in Stara Vyzhivka, a small village in western Ukraine, Yaroslav grew up surrounded by music. His grandmother taught theory at the local music school, and his grandfather was a singing instructor — a family where melodies were part of daily life.
Encouraged by that musical upbringing, he developed quickly. Later, he studied at the Kyiv Municipal Academy of Variety and Circus Arts, focusing on vocals. That foundation would prepare him for the spotlight that was coming.
The Voice Kids: His Breakthrough Moment
In The Voice Kids Ukraine Season 5 (2019), Yaroslav joined coach DZIDZIO’s team and quickly became a fan favorite. His audition went viral across social media, drawing millions of views and reactions from around the world.
He went on to reach the super-final, finishing as runner-up — though for many, he was the emotional winner of the season.
From Yaroslav to YAKTAK
A few years later, he reintroduced himself under a new name — YAKTAK — and began writing and recording his own songs. His music blends pop and modern Ukrainian influences, but the emotional depth of his voice remains the same.
In 2023, YAKTAK became Ukraine’s most-streamed artist on Spotify, showing just how far he had come from that first audition. His songs now tell stories of love, loss, and hope, connecting with a new generation of listeners.
He even competed in Ukraine’s national selection for Eurovision 2024, proving that his journey is only gaining momentum.
The Gentleman Voice of a New Generation
Even now, what people remember most about Yaroslav is his natural charm. He carries himself with quiet confidence, speaks thoughtfully, and sings with honesty. There’s a timeless quality to his performances — classic but fresh, powerful yet tender.
It’s no wonder many say his voice feels like a bridge between eras — the spirit of Elvis with the soul of a new Ukraine.
Let’s Relive the Moment
If you haven’t seen it yet, take a few minutes to watch Yaroslav Karpuk’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” performance from The Voice Kids Ukraine. The judges’ reactions say everything: surprise, respect, and genuine awe.
At just 13, he revealed a voice that few knew was hiding behind that shy smile — a voice that would soon take him from a small Ukrainian village to the global stage.