Nikolai Rastorguev, frontman of the Russian band Lyube, said he has no plans to record a joint track with singer SHAMAN, whose real name is Yaroslav Dronov, when asked about a possible duet in an interview with the Russian state news agency TASS.
Rastorguev, who holds the title of People's Artist of Russia, said he does not specifically follow the work of younger performers.
He said Yaroslav was his younger colleague and a very good guy, adding that he has unique vocal talent. Rastorguev said he sincerely wished him luck, but that he had not had plans to record a joint song with him.
Who Are Rastorguev and SHAMAN
Rastorguev has fronted Lyube since the band formed in 1989, and the group became known for songs blending military and patriotic themes with folk-influenced melodies, including hits such as "Combat" and "Atas." He was named People's Artist of Russia, an honour awarded by the Russian state for outstanding contribution to culture and one of the highest such titles a performer can receive.
Lyube remains one of Russia's most enduring rock bands, with a career spanning more than three decades and a large catalogue of hits that remain popular across generations of listeners.
SHAMAN, whose real name is Yaroslav Dronov, holds the title Honoured Artist of the Russian Federation and rose to wide public attention with patriotic songs, including "I Am Russian," which have featured at high-profile state cultural events in Russia. He has become one of the most prominent younger performers in Russia's contemporary music scene.
SHAMAN's Comments on Volochkova
The question about a possible Rastorguev collaboration followed an earlier comment from SHAMAN about a different proposed duet, with television personality and ballerina Anastasia Volochkova.
Volochkova, a former Bolshoi Theatre ballerina, has become a well-known media personality in Russia through television appearances and public statements that often draw wide attention.
SHAMAN said everyone should do what they are good at, and that combining acts in other ways would result in a mess.
