Muslim Magamayev was a simple but great person and singer, Soviet actor says

Today is the 71st anniversary of the birth of the famous Soviet opera and popular music singer Muslim Magomayev. Vestnik Kavkaza talked to well-known Soviet actor and artistic director of the Maly Theatre, Yury Solomin, who knew Magomayev in person.

Solomin first met Muslim Magomayev in Baku, while on tour. He says he recognized a great person in him at once. At the same time, Magomayev behaved like a common, ordinary man, Solomin says.

"It's a pity that he left the stage. He didn't want to be a part of show business. I believe he will be remembered for a long time," Solomin said.

Muslim Mahammad oglu Magomayev was a Soviet and Azerbaijani baritone opera and popular music singer of the 1960s and 1970s. He achieved iconic status in Russia and other post-Soviet countries, including his native country, Azerbaijan, for his vocal talent and personal charm. He became the artistic director of the Azerbaijan State Bandstand-Symphony Orchestra in 1975 and toured to France, Bulgaria, Finland and Canada.