I always wondered whether the Russian bass Fiodor Shalyapin (1873-1938) was
known in the US/Europe, and I have an opportunity now:)

He's undoubtedly one of the best voices of the century, along with
only several others (Fischer-Dieskau for example) and not only among
basses/baritones - any singers.  But is he known for any extent outside
the former Soviet Union?

Juozas Rimas Jr (not the one playing)
http://artists.mp3s.com/artists/141/juozas_rimas.html