Ahead of this month’s Junior Eurovision Song Contest, Eurovoix.com talks to Fidan Huseynova from Azerbaijan, who will sing “I Wanna Be Like You”.
How did you feel when you found out that you would be
representing Azerbaijan in Junior Eurovision?
When I first heard that I would represent Azerbaijan in JESC, I could not believe my luck. I literally thought it was a joke! However when I was assured that it was real, I was so happy that I jumped of happiness and screamed! I was really surprised and overjoyed.
You have performed with some famous artists such as Lara Fabian and Elnur Huseynov. Are there any other artists you would like to perform with and why?
I would really love to sing with Lara Fabian again. I have sung with her twice and it was an amazing experience. I think the third time would be even better. I love everything about her. She has amazing songs and a wonderful voice. Besides she is beautiful, pretty and kind. Singing with Lara Fabian was absolutely not planned occasion. It was probably a fate because from my childhood I always listened to Lara Fabian. One day we found out that Lara Fabian was coming to Baku to perform and my mom bought the tickets to her concert. The whole evening was full of magic. When I went to give her flowers, out of blue, an idea popped into my
head. “I know her songs, why don’t I sing with her?” I thought. I had the courage to ask Lara to sing with me and I could not believe it when she invited me to the stage. Together we sang “Je suis malade”. She hugged me and I hugged her back. One year later together with my family, I was in Istanbul for our vacation. We learnt that Lara Fabian was giving a concert nearby, so we bought tickets. Again when I was giving her flowers, she recognized me and invited me to the stage. The second time we sang “Je t’aime”. I was very happy to sing with my favorite Lara again.
This year the famous Azerbaijani singer Elnur Huseynov and I sang together the song “Say Hallelujah”. The wonderful song was written by Elnur Huseynov. He represented Azerbaijan 2 times at Eurovision song contest in 2008 and 2015. Also he is winner of “The Voice Turkey 2016”. He has an amazing voice. Also, he loves children and animals. He is really kind and positive person. It was a great experience and pleasure to sing with such a person.
You have taken part in many international singing competitions, like San Remo Junior. Does this make you less nervous for Junior Eurovision?
Taking part in San Remo and many other international singing competitions makes me more confident, strong and gave me a big experience. I also make many friends from all over the world.
You have recently sung with Suada Alakbarova and Rustam Kerimov, both of whom have represented Azerbaijan at Junior Eurovision before. Did they give you any advice for the contest?
Rustam and Suada gave me useful advice. They told me that Eurovision was a completely different world. They also said that it didn’t matter if one wins or not, because participating in Eurovision should already be viewed as a victory.
Your song is called “I Wanna Be Like You”. Who do you
think of when you sing this song?
Actually when I sing my song, I think of 2 people. I have 2 idols. One of whom is my mom and the other – my favourite singer, Lara Fabian.
What are you mostly looking forward in Minsk?
I have never been to Belarus before so this will be my first visit. I’m looking forward to explore Minsk and its historical buildings and castles, to learn more about Belarus. I like traveling so seeing a new place is always great.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Hard-working, Friendly, Responsible
