I admire Kobzon’s loyalty to his friend – ousted mayor Yury Luzhkov.

Leaving aside all aspects of Luzhkov’s political career – and all aspects of Kobzon’s political career as well – I have to say that such loyalty is very rare. It was rare in the Byzantine Empire, it’s rare in modern Moscow. Rats jump from sinking ships – I think these days we have proof that Iosif Kobzon is not a rat. I’m happy every time I encounter his attitude, even among people I do not understand – people I have nothing to do with.

I think someone Up There, who is keeping score, needs to put a gold star next to Kobzon’s name.