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As part of the Freedom Inside forum, Dimash Qudaibergen gave an interview to Anara Kukieva, Editor-in-Chief of Tatler Kazakhstan.
At the start of the conversation, responding to the first question, Dimash admitted that he doesn’t particularly enjoy giving interviews. He believes that artists should primarily focus on building their professional careers, and that, in general, men are better off being somewhat reserved.
When asked, “Why do you make music – for money, for fame, or simply because you can’t help but write and sing?” Dimash replied that music is his life. He described it as a bridge between nations and even a kind of diplomatic “instrument” in today’s world. He emphasized that he does not pursue music for commercial gain, but rather to showcase the vast soul of Kazakhstan and to introduce young talents to the world.
When asked about the difference between fans in Kazakhstan and China, Dimash suggested not limiting the comparison to just two countries. Having performed in stadiums around the world and with around 150 fan clubs globally, he noted that every nation has its own unique energy and atmosphere. He added that performing for a Kazakh audience always carries special emotional significance for him, but what matters most is that together people can inspire humanity toward kindness and peace.
Another question touched on artistic boundaries: “Are there any taboos on your musical path? What shouldn’t a young artist do, for example, posting hundreds of TikTok videos to promote themselves?”
Dimash responded that in today’s globalized and digital world, it’s difficult to talk about restrictions, as everything changes rapidly. He admitted he doesn’t fully understand the algorithms behind social media or how talent gains recognition there. However, if art comes from the heart, the number of videos doesn’t matter. And if that’s the path to reaching people, then why not?
One of the key topics of the interview was Dimash’s new show. Anara Kukieva asked whether its massive success had been expected or came as a surprise even to the team.
The show’s producer shared that, according to recent data, the project has reached around 2 billion views online, and that this shared dream is becoming reality thanks to the audience. Dimash said the project’s goal is to open doors for young performers, just as happened to him nine years ago on Singer.
Dimash also recalled that in a previous interview in Armenia, he spoke about the need for media to focus not only on artists, but also on people in other fields who deserve recognition, for example, young winners of robotics competitions.
When asked whether he uses artificial intelligence in his work, Dimash said he hasn’t worked with it yet, though it can be useful for creating original elements. However, he advised young musicians to first obtain a solid academic education before turning to AI.
Reflecting on how he spends his free time, the artist revealed a lesser-known hobby: riding motorcycles. He had not spoken publicly about it before, but recently shared a video on his page. Otherwise, like anyone else, he spends time with friends, discussing plans and dreams. His routine is simple: home–studio, studio–home.
“Not even any parties?” he was asked.
Awarded the title of People’s Artist at just 29, Dimash replied that youth is the time to work hard and think about how you can contribute to society – to work in such a way that the most important things are accomplished before the age of 40.
At the end of the interview, when faced with a complex question about the musical theory of affects, Dimash chose not to single out any of the eight emotions music can evoke:
“It’s a magical phenomenon. I don’t want to put it into words and diminish it. Let’s leave it as an ellipsis…”
After the interview, the audience was reluctant to let him go.
Fans learned that his favorite film genre is horror, that the songs he writes himself are in one way or another connected to his own life, and that he has many plans ahead, including a performance in Macau, which he was flying to in just two hours, as well as a concert in Budapest with Hauser and Plácido Domingo.
At almost every event, Dimash is asked about his plans for marriage.
With a smile, he shared that as soon as he lands in Kazakhstan, the question starts at passport control and continues with friends and family, over breakfast, lunch, and dinner. He believes everyone has their own timing when it comes to marriage, because it’s about spending a lifetime together, growing old and being happy side by side.
Speaking about women, he expressed concern over the growing amount of negative content on social media showing disrespectful behavior toward them. He stressed that men should treat women with respect and protect them.
Finally, he was asked a philosophical question: “There’s a saying – you should share three cups of tea with people who inspire you. Who would you choose?”
Without hesitation, Dimash answered that person is his grandmother:
“Every time I have tea with my mom, I don’t want to leave. We spoke yesterday and today, and we won’t see each other again until the end of the month because of my work. I dream of seeing her more often, but we have responsibilities to our audience. Still, there’s always a longing for family in our hearts…”
