Top 10 Serbian Musicians Of The 21st Century

Serbia has a rich musical heritage that blends traditional Balkan sounds with modern genres like pop, rock, electronic, and hip-hop. Over the last two decades, Serbian musicians have made significant contributions to both the domestic and international music scenes. Below are the top 10 musicians from Serbia who have shaped and defined the country’s music in the 21st century.

1. Željko Joksimović

Željko Joksimović (born 1972) is one of the most successful and influential Serbian musicians in the 21st century. A singer, songwriter, and composer, Joksimović is best known for his iconic performance at the Eurovision Song Contest 2004, where he represented Serbia and Montenegro with the song "Lane Moje," securing second place. He has since composed multiple Eurovision entries for other countries and remains a prominent figure in Serbian pop music with hits like "Leđa o Leđa" and "Nije Ljubav Stvar." His mastery of blending Balkan folk elements with modern pop makes him one of the most beloved artists in Serbia.

2. Marija Šerifović

Marija Šerifović (born 1984) is one of Serbia’s most recognizable and celebrated musicians, having won the Eurovision Song Contest 2007 with her powerful ballad "Molitva." Šerifović’s victory marked Serbia’s first win at Eurovision and propelled her to international fame. Known for her emotional, powerhouse vocals, Marija has continued to enjoy a successful career with popular albums like "Nisam Anđeo" and singles like "Pametna i Luda." Her talent and authenticity have earned her a lasting place in Serbian pop culture.

3. Rasta

Stefan Đurić Rasta (born 1989) is a prominent figure in Serbia’s hip-hop and trap music scene. Known for blending reggae and trap beats, Rasta has brought a fresh and modern sound to Serbian urban music. His breakthrough hit "Kavasaki" in 2015 catapulted him to stardom, and subsequent hits like "Euforija" and "Kavasaki 2" have made him one of the most popular and influential rappers in the Balkans. Rasta’s unique style and production skills have set him apart, making him a leader in contemporary Serbian music.

4. Svetlana Ražnatović (Ceca)

Ceca (Svetlana Ražnatović, born 1973) is often referred to as the "Queen of Turbo-folk," a genre that blends traditional Balkan folk music with modern pop and dance elements. Ceca has been a dominant force in Serbian music since the 1990s, and her popularity has continued into the 21st century. Her albums, such as "Idealno Loša" and "Poziv," are best-sellers across the Balkans. Songs like "Lepi Grome Moj" and "Nevaljala" are staples of Serbian popular music, and Ceca’s influence on the turbo-folk genre is undeniable.

5. Sara Jo

Sara Jovanović, known as Sara Jo (born 1993), is a pop singer and former member of the girl group Moje 3, which represented Serbia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2013. Sara Jo’s solo career has seen her become one of the leading figures in Serbian pop and R&B music. With hits like "Mahovina" and "Mili, Mili," she has established herself as a versatile artist who blends pop, electronic, and urban music. Sara Jo’s style and presence have made her one of the most popular young artists in Serbia.

6. Bajaga i Instruktori

Bajaga i Instruktori is a rock band led by Momčilo Bajagić Bajaga, one of the most influential Serbian rock musicians. The band has been a staple of the ex-Yugoslav rock scene since the 1980s and remains relevant today with modern hits and classic rock anthems like "Moji Drugovi" and "Plavi Safir." Bajaga’s lyrical genius and the band’s ability to evolve with the times have ensured their longevity in Serbia’s rock landscape. They continue to tour and release music, keeping their fanbase loyal and engaged.

7. Ana Nikolić

Ana Nikolić (born 1978) is a pop and dance music star known for her vibrant and provocative performances. She gained widespread recognition in Serbia with her 2003 debut album "Januar" and has since released several successful albums, including "Milion Dolara" and "Labilna." Ana Nikolić's music is characterized by catchy hooks and danceable beats, with songs like "Romale, Romali" and "Labilna" becoming major hits. Her bold personality and energetic performances have earned her a dedicated fan base in Serbia.

8. Goca Tržan

Goca Tržan (born 1974) is a Serbian pop singer and former member of the popular group Tap 011. After launching a solo career in the early 2000s, Tržan quickly established herself as one of Serbia's top female pop artists. Her songs, including hits like "Voleo si Skota" and "Plavi Haos," blend pop with traditional Serbian music, creating a unique sound that resonates with fans. Known for her strong voice and emotional delivery, Goca remains a prominent figure in Serbian pop music.

9. S.A.R.S.

S.A.R.S. (Sveže Amputirana Ruka Satrijanija) is a Serbian alternative rock band formed in 2006. Their blend of rock, reggae, and electronic influences has made them one of the most popular bands in Serbia and the Balkans. The band gained widespread popularity with their hit "Buđav Lebac" and has since released numerous successful albums, including "Perspektiva" and "Ikone Pop Kulture." Their socially conscious lyrics and genre-defying sound have earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

10. Aleksandra Prijović

Aleksandra Prijović (born 1995) is a rising star in the Serbian pop-folk scene. After participating in the popular singing competition Zvezde Granda, Prijović quickly rose to fame with her powerful vocals and modern take on folk music. Songs like "Testament" and "Senke" have become hits, and her music blends traditional Balkan folk with contemporary pop elements. Prijović’s fresh approach to the turbo-folk genre has made her one of the most popular young artists in Serbia.

Conclusion

The Serbian music scene in the 21st century is a rich blend of pop, rock, hip-hop, and turbo-folk, with artists like Željko Joksimović and Marija Šerifović gaining international fame through Eurovision, while artists like Ceca and Rasta dominate domestically. Whether through pop anthems, rock classics, or urban beats, these musicians represent the diverse and evolving landscape of Serbian music, making a lasting impact on both national and international levels.