Legendary Bosnian singer Halid Beslic dies at 71

Bosnian folk music legend Halid Beslic passed away at 71, following liver complications

Halid Beslic, one of the most beloved figures in Balkan folk music, has died at the age of 71. According to reports from local media and the University of Sarajevo Clinical Center, Beslic passed away after a period of serious health complications related to liver disease. In recent weeks, he had been undergoing treatment at the hospital, initially in the Department of Nephrology and later in the Oncology Department.

Although his manager had stated in September that Beslic's condition was improving, his health declined, and he ultimately did not recover. Just before his passing, Beslic shared a heartfelt poem dedicated to his wife, Sejda, whom he frequently described as his greatest pillar of strength.

Born on November 20, 1953, in the village of Vrapci near Knezina, Beslic grew up in modest circumstances. After completing his military service, he moved to Sarajevo, where his musical journey began. He rose to fame in the former Yugoslavia with iconic songs such as "Necu, necu dijamante," "Budi, budi uvijek srecna," and "Miljacka," which became staples of the region's folk repertoire.

Throughout his career, Beslic earned a reputation not only for his powerful voice and emotive performances but also for his humanitarian efforts. During the Bosnian War, he performed over 500 charity concerts in support of war victims.

In 2009, Beslic survived a severe car accident in which he lost one eye. Despite the setback, he returned to the stage with resilience, continuing to perform and release music.

Halid Beslic leaves behind a musical legacy that transcends generations. He is remembered as an icon of Balkan music and a symbol of strength and compassion in difficult times.