Ella

Marinela Jantoš, better known as Ella, emerged as one of the leading Croatian dance-pop singers in the 1990s. Her hit single “Iza ponoći” became an iconic anthem, leaving a lasting impact on regional pop culture. She started out in bands like Koktel and C’est la vie before releasing her debut solo album in 1995. Despite her musical success, Ella faced personal setbacks, including bankruptcy, and moved to England where she worked as a waitress and caregiver. She took a break from her career to support herself and her daughter Rozi, for whom she is a single mother. Now performing under the stage name Midnight Ella, she has made a comeback with new music and has been appearing at events like Happy Fest and Megadance party. Ella’s resilience and authenticity resonate as she bridges the nostalgic era of the ’90s with today’s scene, inspiring a new generation of performers. Today, she splits her time between Croatia and England, staying true to her artistic roots. Though less active, she continues to perform occasionally, her passion for music undiminished, showcasing an inspiring story of survival and renewal.