A pack of cigarettes (1989): the story of the legendary song of Viktor Tsoi
What do we know about Viktor Tsoi? This name is forever imprinted in the history of Russian rock as a “legend”, an unquenchable “Star named the Sun”, worthyly embodying an entire era ... And the song “Pack of Cigarettes” is one of the most striking works of this great musician. The composition is familiar to more than one generation of listeners. Moreover, even those who are completely far from Russian rock music sincerely fell in love with her ...
The beginning of the story
The history of this song began in Alma-Ata in the summer of 1988. It was there and at that time that Viktor Tsoi starred in the film "The Needle".
By the sunset of the 1980s, Tsoi was already at the peak of his popularity: his songs were known and loved, they came from every radio, they were sung at every "friendly gathering" with a guitar ... And the freshly baked album "Blood Type" made the musician and his group "Kino "real" rock stars.
Recording of the album "A Star Called the Sun" (1989)
The album "A Star Called the Sun" will be the last studio work of the legendary band... Its authorship belongs entirely to Tsoi. Initially, they wanted to call the disc "Pack of Cigarettes", but at the last moment the group leader decided to change the title track. As further history shows, this did not affect the popularity of the masterpiece, which will be discussed today!
Despite the fact that the author of the hit himself refused to talk about the meaning of this creation, the track "Pack of Cigarettes" became a popular favorite!
The rhythm part was composed by Tsoi himself, but the solo was selected by Yuri Kasparyan. Later, the guitarist of the Kino group recalled how the track was arranged:
“...To be honest, the idea of this song was purely mathematical. Everything in it is very balanced… I picked up the most different notes, which seemed perfect to me… As a result, I got a very cool melody… I love harmony, algebra! This music is like a science: harmonious, measured, unique and beautiful…”
Performance at concerts
Subsequently, Kino performed this song at their last concerts, in particular at the Moscow Luzhniki Stadium (June 1990).
And in this funny video "Pack of cigarettes" is performed by the heroes of Soviet films!
Is there a secret meaning in the composition?
What message was laid by Viktor Tsoi in this song? Music critics, fans and the band members themselves put forward a lot of versions! But… none of them inspires confidence… Perhaps there is no secret meaning at all? It may well be... Let you decide for yourself what the main idea of a timeless masterpiece is.
