Hollywood Actor Steven Seagal impressed with all that Baku has to offer

/By AzerNews/

By Amina Nazarli

Famed American actor, film producer, screenwriter, film director, and musician Steven Seagal has paid a surprise visit to Baku.

As part of his visit, the 7th-dan black belt in Aikido, was given a walking tour of Baku’s ancient “Icherisheher” or Old City -- the most ancient part of Baku -- surrounded by well-preserved walls enclosing an ensemble of architectural monuments.

The Hollywood star also tasted famous tandir bread accompanied with cheese. The bread is prepared in a special oven made from clay in a round, conical shape. This tandir bread, as it is known, is very delicious and has an unusual taste that is well recognized throughout the world.

The actor was also able to meet artists and musicians, and even took a shot at playing the national musical instrument -- the Tar.

In addition to acting and aikido, Seagal also plays the guitar, and his songs have been featured in several of his movies, including Fire Down Below and Ticker. In 2005, he released his first album, Songs from the Crystal Cave, which has a mix of pop, world, country, and blues music.

Seagal's second album, titled Mojo Priest, was released in April 2006. Subsequently, he spent the summer of 2006 touring the United States and Europe with his band, Thunderbox, to promote the album.

Paying a visit to the Heydar Aliyev Center, Seagal admitted that he wouldn’t mind giving a concert in Baku.

“I have been to many concert halls, but the hall at the Center is for those who understand real music. I have eight guitars. One of them is inlaid with glass, and I would like to give a concert in this hall,” he said.

While in Baku, the celebrity did not miss the chance to meet with famous four-time world and eight-time European champion, the world-renowned Azerbaijani karate fighter, Rafael Agayev.

“I got a call and was told that Steven Seagal is looking for me,” says Rafael. “I had to go to the gym, but took permission from the head coach. I confess, I did not expect to see him. He was bigger and taller than I expected.”

During their meeting, Seagal told the karate fighter that he has been watching Rafael’s performances for a long time and he likes the way he fights.

Seagal’s film career began in 1982 and he has since appeared in 120 films including Out for Justice, Under Siege, Above the Law, Hard to Kill, Marked for Death, and many others.