— What do concerts like “Super Disco of the 90s” mean to you? What emotions do they give you?
— Such concerts offer motivation and a sea of positive energy. They create a massive platform where thousands join in singing the same hits, sparking nostalgia. The atmosphere becomes alive with energy and indescribable feelings. It’s also a chance to reconnect with old friends and colleagues. Tours keep schedules busy and creativity constant, so moments of gathering become priceless.
— What are your expectations from the concert? Do your feelings about performance expectations change over the years?
— Over many years of performing in various venues, the pre-show feeling remains consistent. When stepping on stage for an audience of thousands, there is excitement. In that cycle of light and music, the performer becomes part of the crowd, and the crowd becomes part of the performance. It is an exchange that never loses its spark.
— Is each “90s Super Disco” different from the previous ones?
— The memory is a kaleidoscope. Each show is cool and unique in its own way, with audiences selecting different themes each year. There was a year when the performer embodied the Little Mermaid, for example.
— This year the concert is “Back to the Future!” It carries the slogan inspired by Robert Zemeckis’ trilogy. If a time machine existed, would you want to travel back to the early 2000s and change some things?
– That question is tricky. If life offered a chance to return to the early 2000s, there would be little to change. Looking back, certain choices might be different, but that history shaped the person and the art. Knowledge from the future would not recreate the adrenaline or the essence of that life, and the journey itself remains essential.
— Are you preparing a new choreography program and costumes for “Super Disco”?
— Preparation happens for each concert individually. Gratitude goes to everyone who contributes, because choosing and finding a costume can be a demanding task. The national concert program requires prior approval, and time is tight with plenty to do. The work involves many people, from lighting staff to performers. What fans see in the room reflects collective effort and positive reception.
— Do you decide what and how you will perform, or does the “Superdisco” management put forward its own demands? How does the number approval process work?
— The program is chosen by timing and thematic criteria. Hits from the 90s are essential since thousands come to hear them. There is harmony among artists about the repertoire and what suits a specific event. Stage image should honor the event’s concept, but artists retain freedom to execute their vision within those boundaries. Each year ends with a mutual agreement between the artist and the festival directors.
— Do you find new meanings in your songs as time goes by?
— Time changes, yet creativity endures. Not every song gains a new meaning for everyone, but a fresh perspective often emerges for first-time listeners. It becomes a different experience, not a brand-new one.
— What is the secret of your energy and youthful enthusiasm? What is your belief in life?
— A youthful spirit is a core condition for any creator. When immersed in work, distractions fade and the mood lifts. The creative process is a captivating pursuit. The life credo is clear: move forward, no matter what, and keep pushing ahead.
— How do you communicate with your fans, do you always agree to take photos? What do you buy most often?
— Fans share their feelings most of all. On stage or off, messages pop up on social media. It’s always appreciated when fans recognize him on the street and ask for photos or autographs. In his view, he never refuses because he has spent years performing for these people.
— Do you remember any unusual cases regarding your fans?
— In Yekaterinburg, a fan climbed on stage and handed a teddy bear along with a large bouquet. He was a chef and announced a lifelong wish to cook for him and even proposed. It was a surprising and memorable moment.
— What meaning did you attach to the song “NeKsyusha,” recorded with Katya Kudos in August? How did the audience respond?
— The track was written by Katya and brought a surge of energy and a chance to explore current musical trends. The lyrics were co-created, and the collaboration fed ongoing creative exploration. The audience reacted very positively, with some fans humorously singing along, confirming the connection to the moment.
— Are there plans for more releases soon? Should fans expect something surprising?
— Yes, plans include at least one album this fall and perhaps two new tracks. A collaboration with the talented DJ Dimixer is on the horizon after a recent agreement, likely yielding more than one project.
— Which contemporary musician would you most like to record a harmony with?
— Openness to collaboration is strong, and all kinds of unusual pairings are welcome, with a sense of excitement about the possibilities.
— What makes the 90s music endure and draw crowds to concerts today?
— The 90s produced a smaller number of stars who poured soul into every song. That heartfelt approach creates a lasting connection. When listeners hear these songs years later, they experience a vivid flashback and relive the emotions all over again.
— How does modern Russian music compare to the 1990s and 2000s, and where does it stand?
— The soul lives on in those earlier songs. A live instrument and a well-crafted arrangement often sound richer than digital versions. Modern music and classic eras are different chapters in the same story, and each reflects its own time.
— You worked with Sergei Zhukov at the start of your career. What are you grateful for, and do you stay in touch?
— Sergei contributed a lot to the project, and gratitude runs deep. They stay connected and keep up with each other’s activities. The success of the next generation is a source of pride as talent is passed along.
— In September this year, Yuri Shatunov would have turned 50. How does that memory stay with you? Do you recall conversations in the last years of his life?
— He remains a defining figure, an era in the Russian pop music landscape; his influence continues to be felt by fans and fellow artists alike.
— You have performed at football matches. Which club do you root for, and how often do you attend games?
— Scheduling sometimes prevents live attendance, but the love for the game is clear. A fondness for Spartak formed after meeting players at events like the Sportvolna festival. He supports matches whenever possible and has shared stages with notable players at stadium openings. He also attends hockey games with friends.
— Is there any free time, and how is it spent?
— Free moments are rare, but the comedian in him loves gym sessions whenever possible. If a couple of seaside days appear, they are a real treat, a perfect way to recharge.