Ready for the music shake-up of the year? The Milan Mladenović Foundation has finally announced the list of 12 finalists for the prestigious award bearing his name, and the scene is on fire! Among the submitted songs, a jury made up of music experts from Serbia, Croatia, and North Macedonia selected those that stood out for their quality of music and lyrics. And that’s not all – these songs will be released on a promotional CD compilation, a real treat for fans and collectors alike.
But wait, there’s more! A recording from the band EKV, hidden in the shadows for 35 years, has finally seen the light of day. The first version of a song Milan Mladenović worked on and revisited multiple times is now available to everyone. Is this a musical gem or just a nostalgic trick? Milan would have celebrated his 65th birthday today, and his honesty and integrity still feed the souls of many.
The award will be presented on September 21st in Makarska, during the Modro Zeleno festival. Besides a cash prize of 3,000 euros, the winner will receive a special statuette made in collaboration with Futro Design Studio. Plus, they’ll get to perform at relevant regional festivals – a golden opportunity for new stars to shine across the Balkans!
The finalists are diverse and intriguing: Elena Vasova with the song “Ljubov,” Pol Taad with “Paul Mantra,” Digitrons bringing “Rain,” and also Afazija, Miš Mish, Surogat, and others. The jury had a tough job but made their choice – who will win the award named after a legend? Will it be a song that changes the game or just another attempt to revive Milan Mladenović’s spirit?
If you love music that touches the heart and stirs emotions, keep an eye on this event. And if you have favorites among the finalists, jump into the conversation – maybe your favorite song deserves to win! Who knows, maybe next year you’ll be part of this musical revolution. Until then, enjoy the sounds that remind us why Milan Mladenović is still the king of the Balkan scene.
And hey, if you think this is just another award, think again. This award is much more – it’s a fight for truth, for honesty, for music that doesn’t lie. And if you’ve got something to say about the finalists or Milan himself, don’t hold back – comments are there to make your voice heard! Who knows, maybe your word will change everything.