Asked about his feelings after his birthday, Paul told the magazine “Kas Jauns”: “I’m tired, I barely breathe after that celebration, it’s usually.”
What gifts did you receive this year?
What can be given to me then? No one will give the car anymore, nor do they need it. She has a diaper. Every now and then I went to Baltezers’ house, I don’t know it very much. This year I was given a lot of pretzels – at least four. I gave them to musicians, because where then will I put them? It is now fashionable to donate various domestic products. Jams, honey, dried fruits. I do not give them to anyone.
What are the plans for the new anniversary of the year?
I want to slow down a bit this year with those concerts. It’s been crazy last year. I counted at least 140 speeches. That’s too much, because not already living on the stairs on stage. This year I will reduce the number of performances, I will be on stage only with those I really like. With Ancite (Ance Krauze – KJ) we will play, we will sing, with Daumants Kalniņš, the following such projects have to be completed. But I will be more picky about where and with whom I participate. I will do all the same, just reduce the speed and listen to my inner feeling so as not to overdo it.
Do you feel that you want a calmer period?
Yes, I want it more calm now.
You were also greeted on your birthday by Russian pop diva Alla Pugacheva, who posted a video on Instagram showing her daughter singing your song. Did you see this greeting?
Yes, I saw. It was very sympathetic on their part. I called and thanked her. I have already been called and greeted by other Russian stage artists. Don’t forget me.
Are you invited to speak or visit Russia?
Many friends invite you to go, offer to perform, because the old fame has not disappeared anywhere. But I don’t want to. Gone are the years, I can’t “pull” long journeys by train or plane. God forbid you do that now! The audience is good there, there have been such concerts … Now I rarely play here in the Russian Theater.
Are you already planning to celebrate your 85th birthday?
No giant balls. Until then, I have to live, but I know there will be no concert in the arena. It is already such a fashion thing – to hold big events on anniversaries. I do not want. There will be no big ball, but I will play somewhere.
Is there any commitment you have decided to make this year?
I understand that I need to move more. You have to go outside, you have to walk, but where do you walk a lot in the city? I know I should move more. Now I have even caught bronchitis. Needs treatment.