Ruslan Aslanov: “There could be small changes in my song, we are working on it” (Interview – JESC 2015 Belarus)

ESC+Plus has had the chance to talk to the Belarussian representative at Junior Eurovision 2015 Ruslan Aslanov. He also has a surprise for our readers, an exclusive message!

ESC+Plus: Hello Ruslan! First of all, congratulations on having been selected to represent Belarus at Junior Eurovision 2015! How did you feel when you were named the winner of the Belarussian national selection? Did you expect such an awesome ending?

Hello Belén! Thank you very much! To be honest it was unforgettable feeling. Of course I wanted to win but I didn’t realized that I am the winner as my name was in the middle of the scoreboard and I didn’t see the number of TV calls and sms. And when the Hosts announced the result I was full of emotions and started crying for the 1st time, like my mom and vocal coach.

E+: Tell us what your song is about. What is the thing you like the most of “Volshebstvo”?

As you know the title of my song is “Volshebstvo” or “Magic” in English. The music is written by a famous Ukrainian composer Ruslan Kvinta. Together with Vitaliy Kurovskiy I wrote the lyrics. Of course it is about magic. But it is a very simple and at the same time the most important magic – Magic of love. Sometimes we try to find something supernatural. But in my song the magic is around us in a very simple things. So you have just to look around to see it.

E+: Will you revamp the song for the Junior Eurovision Song Contest or you will keep the original version?

Of course we are working on the song and have rehearsals almost every day. Maybe there will be some small changes. For sure it will be better, we hope)

E+: Are you planning to shoot an official video clip to introduce your song “Volshebstvo?

I don’t know now, we are happy with the video from the National selection. But I think we can do it a bit later. Maybe even after the contest.

E+: It is too soon maybe, but have you already decided about how your stage performance will look like? You used some graphics at the national final; will we see them at Junior Eurovision?

I can say that I work with a great team and right now we are discussing our stage performance. We have a lot of ideas and we hope the audience in Sofia and TV viewers all over Europe will love it. There will be a couple of secrets so please watch the show!

E+: What do you expect from the upcoming experience at Junior Eurovision? What do you think it will mean for your musical career?

I think it will be the greatest experience in my life so far. I saw the draft of the stage and can’t wait to see it. I was waiting for this chance for 2 years and still can’t believe I go to Sofia!

E+: You already tried to represent Belarus in 2013, how do you see yourself then and now?

Yes, I took part in National selection in 2013. I think I was not ready, was just a little boy, didn’t have experience and need these two years to get it. Now I am older and ready to represent Belarus in the best way I can.

E+: Do you usually watch the senior Eurovision? Would you like to take part in the future?

Yes! Of course I watch it every year, try to predict the and can even open you a secret – in future I also plan to take part in senior Eurovision. But I still have a lot of time to prepare – minimum 3 years as I am only 13 now;)

E+: If you had to choose a Belarusian act to compete at Eurovision, what would be your choice?

It is a very difficult question to be honest. If you talk about Belarussian National selection for JESC I can say that I like all the songs and think we had a very strong participants this year!

E+: This year, you took part at “The Voice of Ukraine”, how did you experience it?

It was really cool! I’ve got a lot of experience, had chance to work and sing with famous Ukrainian artists and composers. Also there were a lot of concerts in different Ukrainian cities. I discovered the country and found good friends. Some of them will also come to Sofia!

E+: Tell us more about yourself, your favourite music style, favourite school subject, hobbies, musical career….

I don’t have a lot of free time as I go to school and the music school as well, but when I have it I love listen to music – funk and rock. My favorite subjects at school are languages, chemistry and biology. Also I play football, make funny videos for my YouTube channel and play saxophone.

E+: What do you feel while singing on stage? Do you have any lucky charm you carry during your performances?

Before going on stage I am always a bit nervous but when the music starts – I feel energy and ready to share it, my emotions and my song with the audience or TV viewers) I have a special talisman, but it is a small secret, only me and my mom know what is it 😉

E+: If you had the chance, which singer would you choose to sing in a duet with?

If I had chance I’d love to sing with Bruno Mars (his voice is cool) and Christina Aguilera (she is just unbelievable). I hope one day I will manage 🙂

E+: Can you send a message for our readers and Junior Eurovision fans?

Sure! Hi ESC+plus!
My name is Ruslan Aslanov! I am 13 years old, I live in Minsk and represent Belarus at Junior Eurovision Song Contest in Sofia. The title of my song is ‘Volshebstvo’ or ‘Magic’ in English! I so need you votes and support! Please don’t forget to watch the show on November 21 and I will sing for you!

Thank you very much for your time and see you in Sofia!

Ruslan Aslanov will represent Belarus at Junior Eurovision 2015 with the song “Volshebstvo” after winning the national final:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zErZq5qHzGg