Charles Aznavour sits down with Becky Anderson
He inspired the likes of Elvis Costello and Frank Sinatra. Singing legend Charles Aznavour spoke to Becky about his passions, which go far beyond the musical.
Posted by CNN Connect the World on Sunday, February 14, 2016
He inspired the likes of Elvis Costello and Frank Sinatra. Singing legend Charles Aznavour spoke to CNN about his passions, which go far beyond music.
For a young man, whose critics said he was too ugly, too short and had a terrible voice, Charles Aznavour has been very successful. “Unfortunately for the critics, who have said all that, they have disappeared, but I’m still here,” Aznavour said.
What is the secret of his success? “I read a book every night for one hour. I learn something in different languages every night,” Aznavour told the CNN.
What does being Armenian mean to Charles Aznavour? “Being French means much more to me, than being Armenian, but I am Armenian. I’m not going to deny it. It’s terrible, when people hide something, fearing of not being welcome. You don’t like the Armenians? I leave. Good bye!” Aznavour said.
Charles Aznavour was in Armenia for the centennial commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. Speaking about the recognition of the Genocide, he said: “The Frenchmen, the Germans have recognized their errors, why not the Turks?
“What was the reason Turks killed Armenians? Religion? I don’t believe that. I read the Koran to understand if there was anything in it. I didn’t find anything. So it was not religion,” Aznavour said.
The French Armenian singer said he’s next song is going to be about migrants. “Why not allow people to come and become French? I’m not French, and many others aren’t. That’s what makes France. They all bring something with them and have a plenty of things to teach us.”
