Ahead of the Lyube performances on February 22 and 23 at Crocus City Hall in Moscow, marking the group’s 35th anniversary, the band leader Nikolai Rastorguev spoke about how song selections are made for concerts. The remarks were reported by RIA News.
Rastorguev explained that, together with composer Igor Matvienko, they focus on what the audience genuinely enjoys and wants to hear during live shows.
He joked that it is risky to debut new, untested pieces on stage, since they might not land with listeners, leaving the band to hear the echo of uncertain reception long after the final note has faded.
The artist also shared that he has not celebrated his birthday on February 21 for many years because it is followed by solo concerts the next day.
“We are used to touring”, he noted. “Back in the 1980s it was normal for us to perform two or three concerts in a single day, even within vocal and instrumental ensembles. Sometimes there were as many as 11 performances in one day. We pursue what we love, and that brings us joy.” He added that the real stress comes from the hectic pace and sleepless nights rather than the concerts themselves.
Earlier reports indicated that Rastorguev had begun rehearsing a song by ST for the anniversary show.
In related news, ST released a new track titled “Give Him Strength,” which was performed in front of soldiers from the Russian Guard in the Northern Military District area.