Boney M. – “Rasputin”: A Disco-Era Epic About Russia’s Most Infamous Mystic

Keywords: Rasputin Boney M., Boney M. 1978 hit, meaning of Rasputin song, disco classics, historical songs in pop music, Boney M. biography

Introduction

Funk, folklore, and flamboyance collide in Boney M.’s iconic 1978 hit “Rasputin”. With its infectious beat and surprisingly detailed storytelling, the song remains one of the most memorable—and unusual—disco tracks of all time. It’s a bold mix of history, humor, and dancefloor energy that continues to fascinate music lovers decades after its release.

A Dance Track with a Historical Twist

Released in 1978 as part of Boney M.’s album Nightflight to Venus, Rasputin tells the sensationalized story of Grigori Rasputin, the controversial Russian mystic and advisor to Tsar Nicholas II. While the real-life Rasputin was a complex and controversial figure, Boney M.’s version frames him as a charismatic, larger-than-life character—“Russia’s greatest love machine.”

“Ra-Ra-Rasputin,
Lover of the Russian queen,
There was a cat that really was gone…”

Blending mythology and rumor with pop flair, the song brings a surreal energy to an already dramatic tale.

Who Were Boney M.?

Boney M. was a Euro-Caribbean vocal group created by German producer Frank Farian. Known for their dazzling costumes, choreographed performances, and catchy rhythms, the group became a staple of disco music in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Songs like Daddy Cool, Rivers of Babylon, and Rasputin helped them gain massive popularity across Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Though the band members—particularly frontman Bobby Farrell—delivered high-energy stage performances, it was Farian who recorded most of the male vocals in the studio.

The Sound: A Disco Anthem Like No Other

“Rasputin” is instantly recognizable for its driving beat, dramatic strings, and Eastern European-style melodies. The use of balalaika-inspired riffs and rhythmic claps gives it a folkloric feel, while the relentless disco groove ensures its place on dancefloors even today.

It’s both absurdly catchy and historically curious—a rare combination that only Boney M. could pull off.

Controversy and Censorship

Despite its popularity, Rasputin wasn’t without controversy. Due to its subject matter and political references, the song was banned in the Soviet Union, though it remained wildly popular in underground circles. In later years, its portrayal of Rasputin was criticized for being overly simplified or exaggerated—but that hasn’t stopped it from becoming a cult favorite.

A Revival Through Memes and Social Media

Like many retro hits, Rasputin saw a massive revival in the 2020s thanks to platforms like TikTok, where it became the soundtrack to dance trends and parody videos. This modern resurgence has introduced the song to younger audiences, many of whom are fascinated by the bizarre blend of history and disco flair.

Final Thoughts

Rasputin by Boney M. is a one-of-a-kind pop oddity—a wildly entertaining mashup of dance, drama, and historical storytelling. Whether you’re intrigued by the mystique of its subject or simply can’t resist its pulsing beat, this track proves that sometimes, the most unexpected songs are the ones that stay with us forever.

Lyrics: Rasputin 

There lived a certain man in Russia long ago
He was big and strong, in his eyes a flaming glow
Most people look at him with terror and with fear
But to Moscow chicks he was such a lovely dear
He could preach the Bible like a preacher
Full of ecstasy and fire
But he also was the kind of teacher
Women would desireRA RA RASPUTIN
Lover of the Russian queen
There was a cat that really was gone
RA RA RASPUTIN
Russia’s greatest love machine
It was a shame how he carried onHe ruled the Russian land and never mind the Tsar
But the kazachok he danced really wunderbar
In all affairs of state he was the man to please
But he was real great when he had a girl to squeeze
For the queen he was no wheeler dealer
Though she’d heard the things he’d done
She believed he was a holy healer
Who would heal her son 

RA RA RASPUTIN
Lover of the Russian queen
There was a cat that really was gone
RA RA RASPUTIN
Russia’s greatest love machine
It was a shame how he carried on

[Spoken:]
But when his drinking and lusting and his hunger
For power became known to more and more people
The demands to do something about this outrageous
Man became louder and louder

“This man’s just got to go!” declared his enemies
But the ladies begged “Don’t you try to do it, please”
No doubt this Rasputin had lots of hidden charms
Though he was a brute they just fell into his arms
Then one night some men of higher standing
Set a trap, they’re not to blame
“Come to visit us” they kept demanding
And he really came

RA RA RASPUTIN
Lover of the Russian queen
They put some poison into his wine
RA RA RASPUTIN
Russia’s greatest love machine
He drank it all and said “I feel fine”

RA RA RASPUTIN
Lover of the Russian queen
They didn’t quit, they wanted his head
RA RA RASPUTIN
Russia’s greatest love machine
And so they shot him till he was dead

[Spoken:] Oh, those Russians…