Goran Bregovich

Goran Bregovich

Composer
Date of Birth: 22.03.1950

Content:
  1. Early Life and Career
  2. Bijelo Dugme: Yugoslav Rockstars
  3. Transition to Film Music
  4. Collaboration with Emir Kusturica
  5. The Music of "Time of the Gypsies"
  6. "Arizona Dream" and Iggy Pop
  7. Beyond Kusturica
  8. Later Career
  9. Legacy

Early Life and Career

Gorazd "Goran" Bregović was born in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia (present-day Bosnia and Herzegovina) on March 22, 1950. Of mixed Serbian and Croatian heritage, Bregović's upbringing reflected the cultural diversity of his region. At the age of 16, he formed his first band, "Beštije," which later evolved into the popular rock group "Bijelo Dugme" ("White Button").

Bijelo Dugme: Yugoslav Rockstars

Bijelo Dugme enjoyed immense success throughout Yugoslavia during the 1970s and 1980s. Known for their eclectic sound that blended traditional Balkan melodies with rock and roll, the band released several albums and toured extensively. Bregović became a rock icon, embodying the spirit of the Yugoslav counterculture.

Transition to Film Music

Bregović's foray into film scoring began in the late 1970s with the comedy "The Cloud of Butterflies." However, his breakthrough came in 1989 with the soundtrack to the critically acclaimed "Kuduz," which chronicled the struggles of a Muslim-Yugoslav.

Collaboration with Emir Kusturica

Bregović's partnership with renowned Bosnian director Emir Kusturica proved to be highly influential. Kusturica's films, known for their surreal and often politically charged themes, provided a perfect canvas for Bregović's unique musical style.

The Music of "Time of the Gypsies"

The soundtrack to Kusturica's 1988 Palme d'Or-winning film "Time of the Gypsies" became an international sensation. Bregović's fusion of Balkan melodies, rock rhythms, and gypsy instrumentation created a mesmerizing soundscape that resonated with audiences worldwide.

"Arizona Dream" and Iggy Pop

In 1993, Bregović scored Kusturica's American film debut, "Arizona Dream." The soundtrack featured a haunting cover of "In a Death Car" by punk rock icon Iggy Pop. This collaboration brought Bregović further recognition as a film composer.

Beyond Kusturica

Bregović continued to compose for films, expanding his reach beyond Kusturica's projects. He collaborated with French director Patrice Chéreau on "Queen Margot" (1994) and added Middle Eastern influences to his music in "Underground" (1995), Kusturica's controversial take on the Yugoslav conflicts.

Later Career

In the 2000s, Bregović became increasingly involved in touring and recording. He formed his "Wedding and Funeral Orchestra," which performed Gypsy music and other traditional styles. He also collaborated with musicians from various cultures, including Greek singer George Dalaras and Turkish singer Sezen Aksu.

Legacy

Gorazd Bregović is widely recognized as one of the most influential film composers of his time. His unique musical style, which draws on Balkan traditions and incorporates rock and fusion elements, has captured the imagination of listeners around the globe.

© BIOGRAPHS