Relja Popović and Nikolija Jovanović, a well-known musical couple from the Balkans, sparked divided public reactions with the release of the music video for their duet “Baš ti sviđa” from Relja’s album “Hotel Jugoslavija.” The video caused controversy due to explicit scenes featuring BDSM aesthetics, sparking debates about the boundaries of artistic expression. While some criticize the video as pornographic and tasteless, others see it as bold and artistic. The couple emphasizes that the video reflects their intimate connection and freedom of expression, with support also expressed by Nikolija’s mother, Vesna Zmijanac. Their relationship and careers have long been prominent in the regional music scene, and the video has further heightened interest and discussion about art and privacy.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets tend to emphasize the artistic freedom and expression in the video, framing the controversy as a discussion about breaking taboos and challenging conservative norms. They highlight the couple’s long-standing relationship and mutual trust as a foundation for the video’s intimate content, often defending the video against accusations of pornography.
Center: Centrist media present a balanced view, reporting both the controversy and the artistic intentions behind the video. They note the divided public opinion, quoting both critics who find the video explicit and supporters who praise its boldness. The focus is on the cultural debate about the limits of artistic expression and the impact on the couple’s public image.
Right: Right-leaning sources often focus on the explicit nature of the video, criticizing it as inappropriate or pornographic. They may emphasize traditional values and question the suitability of such content for public consumption. The narrative sometimes includes concerns about the influence of such media on societal morals and the protection of younger audiences.
