Mladen Grdović, born on July 28, 1958, in Zadar, is a Croatian pop singer and songwriter. He is known for his lively songs that have become an integral part of the entertainment music scene. His energetic performances and distinctive voice have won over audiences across the region.
He began his musical journey at a very young age. As a four-year-old, he sang Neapolitan songs, with his first audience being his father, mother, brother, sister, relatives, and neighbors. At six, he received his first guitar, and a year later, his father enrolled him in music school for guitar and piano lessons. In his youth, he also pursued sports, becoming a coxswain in a boat with the famous Zadar brothers Bajlo, winning over 30 gold medals. In 1968, he won his first award at the Children's Festival in Zadar with the song "Ljeto," composed by Šime Stamać.
In the 1970s, he played in the cult Zadar rock band "Šaci glazbe." He formed his first band, "Dalmati," with which he performed at Crvena Luka. They sang Italian canzones and covers of global evergreens, later transitioning to rock music, covering hits by bands like The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, and Uriah Heep.
At seventeen, he recorded his first single "Ona sada živi daleko," and since then, he has released a single every year. He is the author of numerous lyrics and music and has interpreted compositions with which he has won at numerous festivals. In Croatia alone, he has participated in about 40 of them. In addition to solo performances, he has collaborated with other well-known singers. He has released several albums, selling 2.5 million copies. He has held numerous concerts abroad.
Beyond music, he is known for his energetic performances and cheerful nature, making him a favorite performer at numerous parties and celebrations throughout Croatia. His songs often focus on themes of love, homeland, and everyday life, and he is recognized for his distinctive voice and stage presence.
