What do a Stripper, Doctor, and Model Have in Common? Singer-Lip Syncer and Songs That Strike a Chord - Hi-Fi, You Were One of the Best
I've always been fascinated by how people develop their musical tastes. Is it influenced by their surroundings, friends, family, or something else? My own musical journey was pretty unconventional. I used to get annoyed by the music my friends listened to – all that repetitive, remixed stuff. Give me a catchy melody and a voice that resonates with my heart, and I'm hooked.
I have an eclectic taste in music, and my playlist is a reflection of that. You'll find Evanescence's 'Immortal', the classic 'Pretty Woman', indie-rock band Raised by Swans, and my favorite Hi-Fi tracks all jumbled together.
A brief intro to Hi-Fi: I first discovered Hi-Fi back in 2004, after watching their music video for 'Ne Dan'. The original lineup consisted of Mitya Fomin, Timofey Pronykin, and Oksana Oleshko. I loved their raw energy, and the way they blended their styles to create something unique. Even though Mitya was the lead vocalist, I believed the group was more than just him – it was a synergy of all three members.
However, I recently stumbled upon some information that shook me to my core. It turns out that Mitya was just a lip-syncer, and the actual vocalist was Pavel Yessenin, the group's producer, who's been behind the scenes since 1998. At first, I was puzzled as to why Yessenin didn't take the spotlight himself. He had the looks, the talent, and the charisma to be a successful artist. But it turns out that he deliberately chose to stay behind the scenes, focusing more on the creative process rather than seeking fame.
In 2003, Oksana Oleshko left the group, and Tanya Tereshina joined. I felt like the group had lost its soul, but Tanya went on to have a successful solo career. Oksana, on the other hand, brought a unique energy to the group – she was the heart and soul of Hi-Fi. The group's dynamics changed once again with the arrival of Katya Li, who had a more youthful vibe, but lacked the wisdom and depth that Oksana brought to the table.
I've got to say, I was really disappointed when Mitya Fomin left the group in 2009. I stopped listening to their later songs, and the new lead singer's charming face just didn't do it for me. Compared to Kirill Kolgushnik and Katerina Li Pronin, he seemed like the odd one out, like a grown-up uncle who showed up to a kindergarten party in a ballet costume.
For me, that was the end of an era with one of the best groups of the 2000s.
My favorite Hi-Fi songs are the ones that still give me chills. Like the first song, 'Why would someone die / So they could be noticed by us', which is the first song, first music video, and first meeting of the band members. Three strangers who just stopped and decided to change their lives by 180 degrees – it's like nothing out of the ordinary, but the music video is addictive.
I love the music video, the blue filter gives it a surreal feel, and Olesko's dress is on fire. The female voice in 'Foolish People' calms and soothes, and the music video is like life, watching people's lives through their windows, judging them from above, or looking up at them from below.
If you want to do something, just do it. And excuses can be found anytime. Our 'I'll do it tomorrow' will remain until tomorrow, which will never come. 'We Used to Love' is a light song with a nice melody. And it's true, people used to be able to do things, there were no conditions, and they could. Now we have all the conditions for growth, development, work, and love, but laziness...
I love the start of 'We're Not Angels (feat. Katerina Li)', the girl's voice hypnotizes and charms. Time is relative, time is fast-paced, time has stopped. It depends on the situation.
When I'm feeling nostalgic, I often find myself wanting to go back to a simpler time when life was easy and problems seemed insurmountable, but my parents could solve them in two minutes flat.
I still get a kick out of watching Hi-Fi perform live, but to be honest, I've lost interest in their newer music. The original trio will always hold a special place in my heart, and even Katya Li's contributions can't replicate the magic that happens when they're together. It's not about the individual talents, but the chemistry they share – the energy, the risk-taking, and the youthful exuberance that makes their music so captivating.
Looking back, I realize that Hi-Fi's music was more than just a reflection of their time – it was a reflection of their souls. And that's what made their music so special. It's not just about the catchy melodies or the raw energy; it's about the connection you feel when you listen to their songs. It's about the memories you create, the emotions you experience, and the sense of belonging you feel when you're part of a community that shares your passion for music.
So, to all the fans out there who still hold a piece of their heart for Hi-Fi, I say this: let's cherish the memories, let's appreciate the music, and let's keep the spirit of Hi-Fi alive in our hearts. For even though the group may be gone, their music will always remain a part of us, a reminder of the power of music to bring us together and to transcend time and space.