Serbia was represented at Intervision 2025 by the renowned multi-instrumentalist, singer, and composer Slobodan Trkulja alongside his band, Balkanopolis. His entry was a profound statement on cultural continuity, blending deep Serbian tradition with a contemporary ethno-fusion sound.
The Road to Intervision: Cultural Ambassador and Ethno-Fusion Pioneer
Slobodan Trkulja is a legend in the modern Balkan music scene, chosen for his quarter-century career dedicated to building a unique musical bridge between the archaic and the modern. Unique Style: His music is crafted in the ethno-fusion style, drawing inspiration from Byzantine chant, Serbian folklore, and jazz improvisation. His compositions famously intertwine Balkan rhythms, archaic throat singing (grleno pevanje), electronic elements, and symphonic arrangements. Trkulja is highly respected for his work, having earned state honors and the title of Cultural Ambassador from the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He is a master of over 20 musical instruments. Serbia's representative on the international professional jury was Mirko Radenović, a producer, art director, and key representative of the Serbian diaspora in Russia, known for producing projects for artists like Emir Kusturica and Goran Bregović.
The Contest Performance and Theme
Slobodan Trkulja and Balkanopolis performed the original song, "Tri ružice" (Serbian for "Three Roses"). The contest song "Three Roses" was inspired by Slobodan's three daughters and is dedicated to the process of them growing up. In his philosophy, the song shows how children, raised on the foundation of traditions, search for their place in the modern world. mTrkulja noted that the song uses a motif from a traditional Serbian song, which he developed in a new, modern interpretation. He performed the piece utilizing the traditional Serbian singing style of throat singing (grleno pevanje). "In this song, I also speak about how a pine tree grows. This pine tree symbolizes the shoulders of our ancestors on which we stand. And we also know that the pine's roots grow very deep, just as children seek their place in the modern world while preserving the traditions of their forefathers", he said.
Contest Result and Life After Intervision
Serbia's highly artistic and philosophical entry received a mid-table ranking in the final. Following Intervision 2025, Slobodan Trkulja continued his dedicated work as a Cultural Ambassador, using the increased visibility to further his mission of connecting younger generations with their cultural roots. The performance gave greater international prominence to his Balkanopolis project and his ethno-fusion style. He leveraged the exposure to continue organizing tours and promoting the unique Balkan musical heritage to audiences across Russia and the broader region.
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