In a recent interview, the singer addressed the idea that Western attitudes toward Russians are overwhelmingly negative, arguing that the perceived scale of Russophobia has been overstated. The conversation touched on travel, business, and personal experience abroad, offering a nuanced view that challenges common assumptions about anti-Russian sentiment in Western markets.
The artist explained that while he has spent time overseas and built ventures outside his homeland, he did not encounter hostility on the ground. He recalled a specific anecdote from his past when well-meaning colleagues urged him to avoid commercial projects in the Baltic states, warning about a supposed mass of Russophiles who might react unfavorably. Yet, in his observations, such fears did not materialize. He emphasized the presence of warmth and goodwill rather than prejudice in daily interactions, noting that people in the streets often approached him with compliments and friendly remarks, and that these interactions came from a diverse mix of backgrounds, not solely from fellow Russians.
Regarding his professional life, the singer described a foray into real estate as a business venture. He bought a house, rehabilitated it, and then resold it, a process that taught him valuable lessons about risk and partnership. The path, however, was not without difficulties. He indicated that he faced betrayal from business partners and felt that his family, including his own lawyer and a vice president, had turned away when issues arose. The experience left him discouraged and led him to a hard-earned conclusion about where to place his resources going forward.
Reflecting on personal strategy, the artist said that he chose to focus his investments closer to home. He recently acquired a plot of land in Sochi after a year of searching, signaling a renewed commitment to supporting and strengthening domestic opportunities. This shift illustrates a broader preference for investing in local developments and contributing to the national economy rather than chasing uncertain returns abroad. The sentiment underscores a practical approach to wealth-building that prioritizes stability, familiarity, and long-term value over flashy, external bets.
In a related note, the conversation touched on previous statements by another well-known performer, Larisa Dolina, who had explained why her jazz club project was not completed. The discussion connected these threads into a broader portrait of the entertainment world, where artistic ambition, business risk, and personal resilience often intersect in complex ways. The overall tone of the interview remained focused on personal experience, pragmatic decision-making, and a measured evaluation of the social climate for artists working across borders. It highlighted the importance of staying grounded, recognizing opportunities at home, and building a sustainable foundation for future creative and economic endeavors.