Croatian Divas

There is an old TV video clip floating somewhere around Internet, recorded on some black & white show almost fifty years ago, where young, pretty, elegantly coiffured and impeccably poised Gabi Novak (who at that time was one of the biggest music stars) introduces her next guest on a show and with really nice words says something like "Good evening, I am really honoured to introduce my next guest, she is young singer and her name is Josipa Lisac". Camera than moves to typical TV studio decorations of the times, some exotic flower arrangements (ikebana?) and lingers on for a moment, before we see incredibly young, 18 years old Josipa Lisac who looks like any young girl from neighbourhood, except that typical girl-next-door usually don't have such unusually strong and powerful voices. 

Fifty years later, the whole lifetime after that black-and-white TV clip, two ladies are together again, pictured here during the evening in Opatija, where their music, lives and careers were honoured during nostalgic show tribute to legendary Opatija festival that once used to serve as the biggest annual happening of the year and catapulted countless stars and hits. Festivals have long ago lost their prestige since music business changed radically and nowadays young stars have different ways of exposure, however be it retrospective or promotion, they are still around and its only when occasional true star appears, we suddenly realise how outstanding they are in comparison with the lesser competition, who is not competition at all. Perhaps we should simply be kind and understand that younger generation came as reaction inspired with true ice-breakers who came before them.

This incredibly cute photo captures both Lisac (on the left) and Novak (right) as they joyously smile for camera. They are both much older now but have beautiful glow that comes from inside and in a sharp contrast with dowdy audience behind them, these women kept their appearances classy and dignified: Novak was always known for her elegance and Lisac cultured original, unconventional style for decades. They both survived lifetimes in profession that offers no security or guarantee, gave their hearts completely to music and both shared their lives with musicians who lovingly nurtured their talents, supported them and showered them with songs tailored specially for them. In the autumn of their careers, these two legendary ladies are still centre of attention and its wonderful to see them together, so happy and loved. They left a huge mark on music scene, inspired countless generations and in fact I would say they actually look happier and more serene than ever before. This photo kind of says, behind the whole illusion of glitz & glamour, there is a big heart, passion and warm personality that started it all.