The song "" (Ray of Happiness) is a well-known part of the extensive musical repertoire of the former President of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov . In Turkmenistan's state-driven media culture, his musical performances are often presented as "impromptu" gifts to the nation, designed to showcase his artistic range and personal connection to the workers and citizens. The Story Behind the Song
: In a carefully televised "impromptu" gesture, Berdimuhamedov took the guitar himself and performed " Bagt nury " for the assembled workers. The song "" (Ray of Happiness) is a
: He has performed a wide variety of genres, from traditional Turkmen ballads like "Bagt nury" to televised DJ sets and rap songs performed with his grandson. : He has performed a wide variety of
: The lyrics and the performance were characterized as an ode to the happiness and prosperity of the Turkmen people under his leadership, often referred to as the "Era of Might and Happiness". Musical Style and Context another of his works
: His songs are often given prestigious status; for example, another of his works, "Forward, Only Forward, Motherland Turkmenistan," was used to set a Guinness World Record for the most people singing in the round.