60 Seconds With…Nina Badrić

She has won multiple Porin Music Awards, Croatia’s version of the Grammy’s, including Song and Album of the Year, has represented Croatia at the Eurovision song contest, and is one of the most recognisable pop stars in Croatia and the region today. Croatia Week caught up with Nina Badrić for the latest edition of ’60 Seconds With…’

When did you first start singing?

I was nine years old. It was in chorus “Zvjezdice” here in Zagreb. That was beautiful experience for me, and first steps on stage.

Who was your favourite singer growing up?

That was for sure in first place Whitney Houston. She was a tremendously good singer. But beside her, I loved, and still do love, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, George Benson etc.

Which concert is your most memorable you have played?

There are a few concerts that I will never forget. My first big concert was in Sarajevo in 2001., and my last big one, actually the biggest concert, was in Sarajevo, in front of 18.000 people. But I’ll always remember my first big concert in my hometown Zagreb, that was 14.02.2005, and so many more concerts all over the Ex Yugoslavia and Europe.

Favourite venue you have sung at?

For sure the favourite venue I sing every year is “Runjiceve veceri” in Split, such a beautiful event. Every year I’m looking forward to it.

Where would you love to sing at?

Oh, there are a lot of places I would love to play at it, such as Parisian Olympia or Albert Hall in London. But we’ll have to wait for it.  : )

Favourite place in Croatia?

For sure, Dubrovnik. I love Dubrovnik. I’m going every year a few times there. Now I have a lot of friends there and I always have good time there with them.

Favourite restaurant in Croatia?

There is a lot of nice restaurants all over the Croatia, in Zagreb I love. And for example in Dubrovnik, last time I discovered a nice place with nice food called “Pantarul”.

How do you relax away from singing?

I have my oasis on the island of Hvar in Croatia, and every free day I spend there. I love the seaside, and then I’m relaxed there.

The beautiful island of Hvar

If you could go anywhere in the world where would you travel to?

Paris is always a good idea. Such as New York. : )

What exciting things do you have coming up?

I’m making some new songs, my new album will be out next year, so I’m concentrated on it.

What would you be doing if you were not a singer?

Do not know. Thanks God for this gift. I’m one of the luckiest persons, cause I work what I like.

Do you have any advice for any youngsters out there who want to become a singer?

To believe in yourself, and when others say that something is not possible, never give up.