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Halid Beslic, the Bosnian-born folk singer whose voice and songs united generations across the former Yugoslavia for more than four decades, died Tuesday at the age of 72 after being hospitalized in Sarajevo since August, local media reported.
Beslic had been receiving treatment at the Oncology Department of the Clinical Center in Sarajevo, where he passed away, according to Bosnian news outlets.
His death prompted an outpouring of grief across the Balkans, particularly in his homeland.
Born in 1953 in Knezina, near Sokolac, Beslic reportedly fell ill during a concert in Banja Luka in late August and was taken to the hospital.
One of the most beloved singers in the Balkans during and after the Yugoslav era, Beslic’s career began in 1979 and spanned over 40 years.
He released 19 studio albums and produced dozens of songs that became timeless classics—staples at weddings, community celebrations, radio playlists and taverns across the region.
Known for his deep connection with audiences, Beslic often performed at lavish weddings and festivals, where his emotional ballads about love, nostalgia, and home resonated widely.
Even when he was not present, his songs were performed by others, symbolizing a shared cultural identity across Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia and beyond.
During the 1992–95 Bosnian War, Beslic gave over 500 humanitarian concerts across Europe, donating the proceeds to help Bosnian refugees fleeing the conflict.
His efforts earned him widespread respect, transcending political and ethnic divides in a region scarred by war.
Halid Beslic’s passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of millions of fans. His legacy—defined by heartfelt lyrics, warmth and generosity—continues to shape the musical heritage of the Balkans.
He is remembered as one of the last great voices of the region’s folk tradition, whose songs remain an integral part of everyday life and memory.
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