Russian child Daniel Felistovitch draws 15M views with MJ tribute

The Russian child Daniel Felistovitch accumulated more than 15 million views and approximately one million likes within days following his performance of "Billie Jean" on the Russian edition of "The Voice Kids."

Stage debut and mentor choice

Felistovitch appeared on stage wearing attire inspired by Michael Jackson’s wardrobe, recreating the pop star’s dance movements. Most coaches turned their chairs for him before he joined the team of singer Polina Gagarina.

In an interview with Metro newspaper, Felistovitch stated he selected the song because it represents a major milestone in Jackson’s artistic career and because he anticipated that most viewers would sing along. He noted that the primary challenge lay in executing all planned elements of the show within the allotted time while performing the specific moves he wished to display.

Early exposure to music icons

This appearance was not Felistovitch’s first before a large audience. Since age nine, he has participated in major concerts, including a performance of "Billie Jean" at Moscow’s Music Hall accompanied by the Russian Philharmonic Orchestra. He also took the stage twice at the Kremlin Palace, singing "You Are Not Alone" with the same orchestra.

His fascination with Michael Jackson began between ages four and five when his mother introduced him to works by prominent bands and singers such as Boney M, Queen, Elvis Presley, Elton John, and The Beatles. After watching a video clip of Jackson, he spent the entire day viewing other clips, attempting to identify the artist who sparked his interest and understanding the reasons behind his fame.

Training under official lookalike

At age seven, his mother suggested he learn one of Jackson’s dances. He began practicing using video tutorials and later received lessons from Pavel Talalaev, known as the official Russian Michael Jackson impersonator, before expanding his skills to include singing.

Felistovitch emphasizes that he does not aspire to be merely a copy of his favorite star. His goal is to become a unique artist, stating that he believes in himself just as Jackson believed in himself. According to Felistovitch, Jackson learned from great predecessors, gained their experience, and then created his own distinct style.

Chance meeting with Jackson siblings

A standout memory for Felistovitch is his encounter with Michael Jackson’s brothers during their tour in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. He recounted that the meeting occurred by chance after he and his mother purchased tickets for the concert, only to receive a call indicating the Jackson brothers wanted to meet him.

He said they initially did not believe the news, but upon arriving in Baku, the brothers gifted them tickets to the VIP area. During the meeting, Felistovitch sang "Man in the Mirror" for them, and they danced together to "I Want You Back," a memory he says will remain in his heart forever. He added that his family made celebrating Jackson’s birthday on August 29 an annual tradition similar to New Year’s celebrations.

Family background and personal interests

Felistovitch lives with his mother and older sister Stefania, a former professional athlete, while his parents work in veterinary medicine. His father is of Ghanaian origin.

The household includes several pets, such as dogs, cats, and two pigeons rescued from the street as squabs, which the family cared for until they stayed home. Two years ago, during a trip to China where he sought modeling work, Felistovitch rescued a dog named Wendy found emaciated and in poor health on the street; he treated her and transported her back to Russia.

Felistovitch describes music and animals as his greatest passions. He currently studies violin at a music school and plays drums, piano, and guitar, including electric guitar. Despite his attachment to Jackson’s music and dedication to mastering his moves, Felistovitch wants to forge his own artistic path rather than live in the shadow of his idol. He dreams of filling halls with audiences as Jackson did, but as the artist Daniel Felistovitch, not as a version of him.