## Ivan Lechev: From Forbidden Travel to Original Compositions
Renowned musician Ivan Lechev recently shared anecdotes from his illustrious career, revealing both triumphs and unexpected obstacles.In a recent television appearance, Lechev recounted a period where a Grammy Award for arrangement, earned alongside the album *I’m Never Gonna Change* by José Feliciano – featuring the song “sielito Lindo” arranged by Lechev’s band, FSB – was met with travel restrictions. “We were prevented from accepting the award in person in the United States; the situation at the time simply didn’t allow it,” Lechev explained [[1]]. This occurred shortly after FSB’s song “I Love You Here” had already garnered recognition as “Tune of the Year.”
### A Serendipitous Start with the violin
Lechev’s musical journey began unexpectedly.He described how his father, recognizing his son’s vocal talent, promptly enrolled him in violin lessons. “It was quite sudden,” Lechev noted, “one day I was singing, and the next I was holding a violin.” Interestingly, the family’s piano remained untouched during this period.
He playfully acknowledged the challenges inherent in mastering the violin. “While the violin is arguably the most beautiful instrument, learning to coax a pleasant sound from it can be…challenging, to say the least – for both the player and anyone within earshot!” he quipped. The guitar entered the picture later, introduced by his older brother. Lechev reflected, “The violin demands precision, but the guitar offers a more accessible entry point to musical expression.”
### “The Foundation” and a New Creative Chapter
Lechev and his current band, “The Foundation,” are now focused on creating original material. Their latest endeavor, “I Want You,” represents a notable step for the group. The impetus for this shift towards original compositions arose following the passing of Kiril Marichkov. “We had discussed the idea for some time,” Lechev explained, “but Kiril’s passing served as a catalyst. Donnie [Donchev] ultimately encouraged us to move forward and bring our own songs to life.” This marks a new and exciting phase for the band,building on a legacy of skillful arrangement and musical innovation.
Worth a look