— In the program “Duets” on the Rossiya TV channel, you cannot name your partner – you need to maintain the intrigue, but still: what were your expectations in this regard?
— I just assumed it would be Natasha Koroleva.
— Are you satisfied with your performance?
– NO. What I’m not happy with is my performance; I am rarely happy. It could have been better, but as usual there was no time for rehearsals. I needed to prepare, but I never did. (Laughs).
— Is it often difficult to adapt to another person and who should adapt?
“The older professional needs to adapt – the one who can do it more easily.”
— How do you evaluate the idea of the show? What’s the most interesting thing about this? performance, interaction of people who do not see each other, repertoire of artists?
“The interesting and unusual thing is that you don’t know who is behind the wall.” It is not known who was singing there until the wall went up. It is impossible to understand this; My partner’s voice sounds distorted in my headphones. This fact largely plays on emotions.
—Have you watched the show before? What was your most memorable performance and why?
— I have a lot of performances, so finding time to watch TV is a luxury. But I watched “Duets” specifically to understand what I would participate in. As for those who liked it, let me say this: There is no one who disliked it!
— This autumn, your disagreement on the program with the Valya Carnival, who burst into tears because you surrounded it, caused some media coverage. Even though you’ve surrounded it, it’s actually not that sharp. Do you think it is characteristic of the younger generation in general to be so sensitive to the slightest criticism?
— Representatives of the young generation who are making a name for themselves on social networks have good acting talent – this should not be forgotten. After all, their blogs consist of short scenes and poses. I don’t offend anyone anymore; Many bloggers are interesting and attractive to me. You must have noticed well that I did not insult you so harshly. I said: “Let’s prove that you are in the right place by being on the jury of this music show.” Actually, this is a musical war and not a war where your online blog is cooler.
— What kind of pressures did you face at the beginning of your career? Can you compare this to what the stars of the younger generation are experiencing now?
– They said I was unformatted, toothless, dead and with bad diction – but who took me on stage? But I went out because nothing could stop me. I never saw myself in anything else, in any other profession other than art. After all, all my shortcomings made me special and allowed me to be easily recognized. I guess nothing has changed here today; the rules are the same. If you’re not perfect, make your imperfections your asset!
— Those who are now plus or minus 20 years old perceive you as a master, a legend. Does this please you?
– Come on, what kind of master am I?! But if so, then of course it’s nice. I don’t consider myself a 90s showbiz legend. I’ve heard this many times but I can’t believe I’m this old and have become a legend.
— Which of the young Russian stars do you think is the best, most talented?
– I can’t choose just one. I have already said in an interview who I like creatively: Skryptonit, Klava Koka, Zivert, Mia Boyka… There are other artists, but I can’t remember right away – age.
— Starting from a very difficult childhood, your life literally seems to consist of black and white lines. You’ve overcome drug addiction, been treated for cancer, and survived 25 surgeries. What helped you not to collapse, not to lie down with your paws up?
“I don’t know what else works except God and the thirst for life.”
— In an interview with socialbites.ca last year, you said that you “never try to lie or invent anything” and that’s why “the cool bands of the 90s fell in love with you.” Is it possible to go into more detail after this point? What was this love?
– The truth is that they listened to my songs. I performed at their parties for a lot of money, they didn’t spare any money for me and they always repeated: “If anyone bothers you, call me, we will come and tear your head off.” Looks like the kids must have wanted to kill me because I looked like a clown. But it turned out just the opposite.
– Everyone knows you are a tough person, you don’t mince words. Do you admire this quality in others?
– Yes definitely. I value the truth, even if it is uncomfortable for me. I could send three letters there feeling offended, but I will apologize for considering it logically.
— Have you ever regretted the harsh words you said to someone?
– Well, who wouldn’t regret it after being offended by emotions? There is such a thing, it happens.
—Are there people afraid of you?
– Yes. My team when I shout. Sometimes I’m down, I’m not happy with something, sometimes I’m even wrong, I’m not a saint.
— Which television project would you never take part in?
– “Stars in Africa”, “Total Blackout”, “The Last Hero”, “Fort Boyard”. Excellent programs, I can watch them with enthusiasm, but personally I am very, very afraid of all this and would never agree to participate. Well, and in “Dom-2”. This game is the worst (Laughs).