Ruslan Alehno, the Belorussian representative this year has successfully started his promo tour and has attended national finals in countries such as the debuting Azerbaijan and Lithuania where he caused tears of joy.
During the Lithuanian national final, one of the jury members expressed a very negative attitude towards one of the contestants, stating that Raimonda did not perform well, looks fat and is horribly dressed. Having sang his song as a guest, Ruslan while being asked about all the participants stated that the accused Raimonda is very beautiful and made a wonderful performance. The girl was so touched, that even started crying.
Ruslan's next destination is Finland where he will record again his song "Hasta la vista" and will give it a new, better sound as well as make a serie of re-mixes of the entry. Before taking off to another country, Ruslan spoke exclusively to esctoday.com telling our readers about his attitude towards the Eurovision Song Contest and the rest of the participants in general.
When did you hear about Eurovision Song Contest for the first time and what does it mean to you?
I have been watching the contest for quite some time now and I have always shown interest towards me. Besides that, I believe that a contest of this kind give an artist a unique opportunity to show himself in front of European public, which is huge. And, of course it is a great honour to represent my country on such event.
How and why did you chose this specific song and tell us some things about the composer.
This song was written specially for Eurovision Song Contest by a new member of an ex-eurovision participant band "Premier Ministr" – Taras Demchuk. The lyrics are written by Eleonora Melnik.
How do you feel representing a whole country when all Europe is watching you?
First of all, it is a huge responsibility and at the same time – happiness that I was the one to be chosen to represent my culture, my country, which I love. And of course I am happy to share my song with all Europe.
Have your hear other entries of this year? Can you comment on some?
On February 2nd I was invited to the Lithuania final and of course I have heard all the finalists and the one who won. With all the preparations needed for the contest, I have little spare time, but hopefully I will listen to all the entries of this year.
Are there any entries from the past years that you really liked?
Well, it is of course the performance of my very good friend Koldun. We were really proud of his excellent performance last year.
What do you expect from the Eurovision Song Contest?
For the time being I am getting myself ready to perform well in Belgrade. But in general, I expect positivity, emotions and of course, some victories.
What can you say about the new rules introduced this year and do you believe these changes were needed?
Well, rules are rules and i accept them as they are. Besides that, I am confident that behind the scenes, Eurovision is organised by a team that consists of highly professional people and they know what they are doing that's why it has such a high level.
