Grigory Leps, one of Russia's highest-paid artists, shocked with an admission: he is mired in multi-million dollar debts. "As of today, I have approximately minus 18 million dollars," the singer stated in an interview with Emin Agalarov.

Leps did not disclose the reasons for such a financial hole, but it is known that ten years ago he opened a large-scale production center. The building, with an area of about 2700 square meters, cost the artist approximately 20 million dollars. The center is currently operating, but brings in modest profits. Leps provides many services for free. "A lot of work goes through, not just mine. People ask, people turn to us. For example, Agutin, Presnyakov often rehearse. No one ever charges them money for recordings or rehearsals. The studio is not a business, it's a monument to money," Grigory concluded.

In addition, the musician collected icons for many years, buying exclusive pieces at auctions around the world for millions of dollars. His businesses also brought losses: optics salons and one of the restaurants had to be closed.

Music is Leps' main source of income. He now gives 110–120 concerts a year, although previously their number reached 160. The artist admits that if it weren't for financial obligations, he would have left the stage long ago. "Honestly, I wouldn't be singing anymore if I had something to live on in old age or something to provide for my children. After all, some of them are still studying, and they have another five to seven years of studying. At least this time needs to be held out, and then we'll see," Leps muses.

When asked about the specific amount that would free him from financial worries, Leps answered evasively. "There is, of course, a sum, but it is abstract. There is such money that would allow me not to think about music and not to think about anything at all. But with years, the need for money disappears. Personally, that's how it is for me," explained the performer of the hit "The Best Day."

Leps emphasized that he himself does not need much. "In old age, we will earn enough for kefir, cottage cheese, and a piece of sausage anyway. A person doesn't need more. There is a piece of land, there is a small hut of 200 square meters. One person doesn't need more," the singer shared. At the end of last year, it became known that Grigory Leps put two mansions on Novaya Riga up for sale for 1.5 billion rubles.