Essaï Altounian (Genealogy): “I feel invested in a new mission being the voice of millions of Armenians” (Armenia at Eurovision 2015 – Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked to Essaï Altounian, the first revealed member of the Armenian group for Eurovision 2015.

Genealogy will be formed by six Armenian singers from all five continents and they will sing the song “Don’t Deny” in Vienna.

 

ESC+Plus: Hello Essai! Firstly, Can you tell us about you, your musical evolution and important achievements?

I’m a songwriter, producer and a singer. I composed some gold, platinum and diamond records in France for some artists and projects (Jenifer, Le Roi Soleil, Amaury vassily, Vincent Niclo…).  I also produced with Michel Legrand the new version of the famous Musical “Les Demoiselles de Rochefort”.

I started to sing in the successful Musical “Romeo and Juliet” which toured during 2 years in France, Belgium and Switzerland. A few months ago I took a big step across the ocean to the United States – where my musical influences originated. I met the son of Motown Kerry Gordy with whom I produced my new single ‘Family.” Now I ‘m working there on my new LP available in 2016.

E+: What did you feel when you were told you were going to be part of this interesting project?

I was honoured and very proud. I felt invested in a new mission being the voice and the messenger of millions Armenians around the world. It’s a precious privilege – music.

 

E+: Why did you decide to accept the proposal to represent Armenia at Eurovision?

Because Armenia is my country .. I was born and grew up in France but all my heart is Armenian – my roots, my Genealogy 🙂 I love France and I am grateful for accepting my grandparents 80 years ago, however all my emotions and my sensitivity come from Armenia.

E+: The Armenian Public Broadcaster had the idea of choosing their entry inspired by the Century of the Armenian Genocide , they want to send a message of peace, unity, and tolerance. What do you think about it?

Music can change mentality and hearts; music is connecting people and is joining hearts. It is a universal language.

My goal is to spread love, serenity and unity with my music.

We want to deliver a powerful message of peace, unity and tolerance with music. This year is the Century of the Armenian Genocide and it is part of history. We can learn from the past to make better days. Despite difficulties Armenians still have shiny eyes, they are singing, dancing, smiling, and sharing love and happiness.

E+: Did you ever think of representing France or Armenia in Eurovision?

No, however I think that this year is the perfect one for me simply because it is perfectly matching with who I am and what I feel; a bridge between the past and the future.

E+: How can this competition contribute to your musical career?

I never did anything for the glory or the fame. I’m just passionate about music. It’s not a personal competition; it is a collective one because we are going to represent a whole nation.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSQNE35peF0

 

E+: Do you usually watch Eurovision? Do you have any favourite song in the history of the contest?

Watching Eurovision was a tradition in my family. I remember watching it on TV when I was a little boy and I was already thinking to be on this amazing stage one day. Maybe it is the power of the law of attraction.

The song of Conchita last year was great. The melody, the arrangement and the voice was the perfect combination. When I heard it for the first time I said, “That’s it! …Austria is the winner”.

E+: Besides Eurovision, what are your plans for this year?

I’m preparing my new album for 2016, also writing and producing songs for others project and artists. And I just released a new single called ” Je n’oublie pas” Chem Morana ” dedicated the centennial of the Armenian Genocide. Then I will continue promoting it in Europe and the USA.

E+: What is your favourite music style? Do you have any favourite singer?

I love every style of music as long as it is a good music. But I used to listening to soul music. Actually I like to call my Music “Urban soul’. It is alchemy between the heart beat and soul. A mix between earth and sky… My favorite singer is James Ingram.

E+: Finally, would you like to send a message for our readers?

Hi everyone, I can’t wait to share with you all the joy and happiness that we are going to feel during this incredible adventure of friendship.

Take care of yourself and God bless you. C U Soon

You can follow Essaï Altounian on his Official Website and Official Facebook Page.

You can also follow Genealogy on their Official Facebook Page.