Sergey Stepanov: The Moldovan Maestro Behind the Epic Sax Guy Phenomenon

Sergey Stepanov, better known as Epic Sax Guy, is renowned for his iconic saxophone solo during Eurovision in 2010.

The popular Moldovan star became synonymous thanks to his mesmirising solo during the live concert of the Moldovan dance/pop trio SunStroke Project at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2010. His performance has not only captured the hearts of Eurovision fans but also sparked a viral sensation that transcended borders and musical genres.

The Rise of Epic Sax Guy

In May 2010, SunStroke Project represented Moldova in the Eurovision Song Contest with their catchy dance-pop song "Run Away." While the group didn't secure a top spot in the competition, Sergey Stepanov's instrumental solo became the talk of the town. His electrifying saxophone performance, filled with showmanship and charisma, caught the attention of viewers around the world.

The video clip of Stepanov's saxophone solo quickly found its way to YouTube, where it gained tens of millions of views. The infectious energy and memorable tune made it an instant hit, propelling Epic Sax Guy to internet stardom. Fans were not only captivated by the music but also by Stepanov's stage presence, leading to the creation of numerous remix videos.

Sax-Rolling: The Internet's Musical Prank

Similar to the Rickrolling phenomenon, Epic Sax Guy became the center of a bait-and-switch prank known as "Sax-rolling." Internet users would share links that seemingly led to something else, only to surprise the unsuspecting clicker with the familiar saxophone melody. This playful trend added an extra layer to the meme, turning it into a humorous online tradition.

Viral Success of Epic Sax Guy

Sergey Stepanov's success reached far beyond YouTube. A dedicated Facebook page for "Epic Sax Guy" was launched on May 29th, 2010, and a single-serving site, SaxRolled.com, featuring a looped track of Stepanov's solo, was registered on June 24th, 2010. The internet community embraced the phenomenon, with fans creating fan pages and groups that quickly gathered tens of thousands of members.

The Moldova Foundation, recognizing the internet phenomenon originating from their country, actively acknowledged and even celebrated Epic Sax Guy. The fever spread to various platforms, with the melody becoming a common background music choice in video game "Best Moments" videos, further cementing its place in pop culture.

The Politics Behind the Saxophone

Stepanov himself commented on the challenges of the Eurovision Song Contest, highlighting the political nuances and how smaller countries, like Moldova, faced difficulties in securing top positions due to their weaker political standing. This added a layer of intrigue to Epic Sax Guy's rise to fame, making it not just a musical sensation but also a symbol of the complexities within the Eurovision competition.

Epic Sax Guy's Legacy

The success of Epic Sax Guy didn't fade away after the Eurovision Song Contest. In December 2010, SunStroke Project appeared on a Moldovan TV program singing a song titled "Epic Sax," directly referencing the internet meme. They further embraced the phenomenon by releasing a single in 2011 titled "Epic Sax," featuring clips from the Eurovision performance and samples of their previous hit.

In 2014, Stepanov's 2010 performance was immortalized in the Eurovision Book of Records, a testament to the lasting impact of Epic Sax Guy on the history of the contest. The saxophonist's legacy continued in 2017 when SunStroke Project returned to Eurovision with "Hey, Mamma!" and secured a remarkable 3rd place. This time, Epic Sax Guy was reborn as "Ultra Sax Guy," captivating the internet once again with remixes and new videos.

Upon their return to Moldova, SunStroke Project received the Order of Honour from then-President Igor Dodon, recognizing their achievements on the international stage and the enduring popularity of Epic Sax Guy.

Epic Sax Guy is More than Just a Viral Internet Meme

The tale of Epic Sax Guy is more than just a viral internet meme; it's a testament to the power of music, showmanship, and the unpredictable nature of online phenomena. Sergey Stepanov, with his saxophone prowess, took the internet by storm, creating a legacy that extended beyond the Eurovision stage. Epic Sax Guy continues to live on in the hearts of fans worldwide, reminding us that sometimes, the most unexpected moments can become iconic in the vast landscape of internet culture.