ESC+Plus has talked to Vladislav Kurasov, semifinalist of this year’s Ukrainian national selection for Eurovision 2016. Vladislav will perform “I’m Insane” in the first semifinal set on February 6.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUdpXY0phlY
ESC+Plus: Hello! First of all, thank you so much for your time and congratulations on having been selected to take part in the Ukranian national selection for Eurovision 2016!
E+: Can you tell us about you, your musical career and important achievements?
Thank you very much! I am 20 years old, I was born in Belarus, but I have been working and living in Ukraine for the past 5 years. When I was 16, I came to participate in the X – Factor Ukraine, after that, I signed a contract, and decided to stay in this wonderful country. At the X-Factor I placed 3-rd, and then, after this project , a completely different life had started for me. I managed to win another TV project, give a lot of solo concerts. Now I’m performing on tours, work on my music videos, recording new songs.
E+: What impelled you to take part in “Ukraine Eurovision Song Contest 2016”?
Eurovision Song Contest is my childhood dream. From very early age I imagined myself on the stage of this incredible Song Contest. Since I was 9 I did not miss a single year! I am a real Eurofan! I had always felt that one day I’ll find myself at that stage. I hope this year my dreams come true.
E+: How did you feel when you knew you had qualified for the semi-final? Did you expect it?
I was very hoping that I will make into the national selection. When I got a call and I was told that I am one of the 18 semifinalists, I jumped with joy, and people around me did not understand what was happening. But I didn’t care, I felt, that I am getting closer to my dream.
E+: What it would mean for you to represent Ukraine?
It Is the country of my ancestors, my mother and grandmother were born in Ukraine. When I moved here, I had a feeling that this is my home. Here I start a very different life, here I began my “new story “. I don’t know where my destiny will have ahead for me, but I definitely know, that Ukraine always will have a special place in my heart.
E+: Can you tell us about your song? What is the story behind the lyrics?
The last two years were very difficult for my personal life. There were a lot of frustrations and obstacles. I always thought , that love will not overtake me soon, but it happened, unfortunately, not the same way, like in Hollywood films with the beautiful ending. I tried to fight for my love, but it was no success. Due to my personal drama, this song was born. After one very emotional day, I came to keyboard and start to write it. Music went from my soul.
E+: Why do you think your song has to be selected for Stockholm? What are you strengths to reach the top in the competition?
My song is very sincere, there is nothing made up. It is the reflection of my feelings and emotions. I think music should be based on this. I think that many people could find themselves in the same situation as me. I hope that my story can help them. I’m sure, that my song will be worthy to represent Ukraine at the contest.
E+: How are you preparing your stage performance for “Ukraine Eurovision Song Contest 2016”?
Now we are rehearsing with the back singers, designing costumes and we are fully involved in all preparation work. This is very exciting and interesting process!
E+: Do you usually watch Eurovision? What are your favorite songs in the history of the competition?
Oh my God! There are so many! I really like the “My Number One” by Elena, “My Secret Combination” by Kalomira, “Undo” by Sana, “Gravity” by Zlata. Indeed, there were many beautiful songs! But my favorite singer is the incomparable Loreen! I discovered her for myself after Eurovision. I became a real fan of her. I like her music very much!
E+: If you could choose a Eurovision former participant to sing along with, who would it be?
Oh, that would be Loreen for sure, yes, that would be incredible! Also I really liked Jade Ewen from Britain, she has a magical voice.
E+: Besides Eurovision, what are your plans for this year?
It’s very hard to talk about it, when the Eurovision is so close. Now my plans are entirely depend on the result of the national selection.
E+: Besides Eurovision, what are your plans for this year?
It’s very hard to talk about it, when the Eurovision is so close. Now my plans are entirely depend on the result of the national selection.
E+: Finally, can you send a message for our readers and Eurovision fans?
My friends, I hope you like my song. I wish your dreams come true, as well as possible, my dreams will come true too. This is an incredible feeling! Love and never stop love! All the best!!!
E+: Thank you for your time and good luck!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDBkBuwsJ_o