Abstract
The article presents an in-depth analysis of the crisis of identity and quality in contemporary Uzbek estrada music. The author traces the genre’s evolution from its origins in the early 20th century to the post-independence era, when the ensemble Yalla exemplified a genuine synthesis of national traditions and modern musical forms. At the same time, the paper examines the current stage of development, marked by commercialization, loss of originality, and a decline in artistic standards. Structural causes of the crisis are identified as the absence of systematic musical criticism, a weak educational foundation, the scarcity of authentic resources, and the influence of global pop culture. The author emphasizes that the crisis of Uzbek estrada is not only aesthetic but also cultural and identity-based: the low quality of mass content diminishes artistic perception and weakens national consciousness. Proposed solutions include the digitalization of musical heritage, creation of a national archive, encouragement of original composition, and the introduction of innovative pedagogy. The synthesis of tradition and modern technology is viewed as the key to reviving authentic Uzbek estrada and strengthening its position within the global cultural space.