Bijelo Dugme
Bijelo Dugme: The Yugoslav Rock Legends
In the annals of Yugoslav rock music, Bijelo Dugme stands tall as one of the most influential and controversial bands of all time. Their iconic song "Napile Se Ulice" (The Streets Are Drunk) became an anthem for generations, while their boundary-pushing sound and provocative lyrics challenged societal norms and sparked countless debates.
Origins and Early Years
Bijelo Dugme was formed in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, in 1974. The original lineup consisted of Goran Bregović (guitar, vocals), Željko Bebek (vocals), Zoran Redžić (bass), and Ipe Ivandić (drums). Their early sound was heavily influenced by Western rock bands, particularly Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones.
Breakthrough and Controversy
In 1975, Bijelo Dugme released their debut album, "Kad Bi Bio Bijelo Dugme" (If You Were Bijelo Dugme). The album was an instant success, establishing the band as a major force in Yugoslav rock. However, their outspoken lyrics and provocative stage performances soon drew the attention of the Yugoslav authorities.
The band's second album, "Šta Bi Dao Da Si Na Mom Mestu" (What If You Were in My Place), released in 1976, sparked even greater controversy. The album's title track, which explored themes of political oppression and social inequality, was banned from radio airplay.
International Recognition
Despite the challenges they faced in Yugoslavia, Bijelo Dugme's music found a receptive audience abroad. In 1978, they signed with the British record label RSO, which released their international debut album, "Ritam Srca" (Heartbeat Rhythm). The album was a commercial success, introducing Bijelo Dugme to a global audience.
The Golden Age
The late 1970s and early 1980s marked the golden age of Bijelo Dugme. They released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including "Eto! Baš Hoću!" (Here! I Really Want!), "Dodirni Mi Kolena" (Touch My Knees), and "Uspavanka Za Radnicu" (Lullaby for a Worker).
Lineup Changes and Solo Careers
Over the years, Bijelo Dugme's lineup underwent several changes. Željko Bebek left the band in 1984 and was replaced by Alen Islamović. Goran Bregović also left in 1989, pursuing a successful career as a film composer.
Reunions and Legacy
Despite their breakup in 1989, Bijelo Dugme reunited for several concerts in the early 2000s. Their music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans.
Discography
* Kad Bi Bio Bijelo Dugme (1975)
* Šta Bi Dao Da Si Na Mom Mestu (1976)
* Ritam Srca (1978)
* Eto! Baš Hoću! (1979)
* Dodirni Mi Kolena (1981)
* Uspavanka Za Radnicu (1982)
* Kosovka Devojka (1984)
* Pljuni I Zapjevaj Moju Pjesmu (1986)
* Ćiribiribela (1988)
Members
* Goran Bregović (guitar, vocals)
* Željko Bebek (vocals)
* Zoran Redžić (bass)
* Ipe Ivandić (drums)
* Alen Islamović (vocals)
In the annals of Yugoslav rock music, Bijelo Dugme stands tall as one of the most influential and controversial bands of all time. Their iconic song "Napile Se Ulice" (The Streets Are Drunk) became an anthem for generations, while their boundary-pushing sound and provocative lyrics challenged societal norms and sparked countless debates.
Origins and Early Years
Bijelo Dugme was formed in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, in 1974. The original lineup consisted of Goran Bregović (guitar, vocals), Željko Bebek (vocals), Zoran Redžić (bass), and Ipe Ivandić (drums). Their early sound was heavily influenced by Western rock bands, particularly Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones.
Breakthrough and Controversy
In 1975, Bijelo Dugme released their debut album, "Kad Bi Bio Bijelo Dugme" (If You Were Bijelo Dugme). The album was an instant success, establishing the band as a major force in Yugoslav rock. However, their outspoken lyrics and provocative stage performances soon drew the attention of the Yugoslav authorities.
The band's second album, "Šta Bi Dao Da Si Na Mom Mestu" (What If You Were in My Place), released in 1976, sparked even greater controversy. The album's title track, which explored themes of political oppression and social inequality, was banned from radio airplay.
International Recognition
Despite the challenges they faced in Yugoslavia, Bijelo Dugme's music found a receptive audience abroad. In 1978, they signed with the British record label RSO, which released their international debut album, "Ritam Srca" (Heartbeat Rhythm). The album was a commercial success, introducing Bijelo Dugme to a global audience.
The Golden Age
The late 1970s and early 1980s marked the golden age of Bijelo Dugme. They released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including "Eto! Baš Hoću!" (Here! I Really Want!), "Dodirni Mi Kolena" (Touch My Knees), and "Uspavanka Za Radnicu" (Lullaby for a Worker).
Lineup Changes and Solo Careers
Over the years, Bijelo Dugme's lineup underwent several changes. Željko Bebek left the band in 1984 and was replaced by Alen Islamović. Goran Bregović also left in 1989, pursuing a successful career as a film composer.
Reunions and Legacy
Despite their breakup in 1989, Bijelo Dugme reunited for several concerts in the early 2000s. Their music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans.
Discography
* Kad Bi Bio Bijelo Dugme (1975)
* Šta Bi Dao Da Si Na Mom Mestu (1976)
* Ritam Srca (1978)
* Eto! Baš Hoću! (1979)
* Dodirni Mi Kolena (1981)
* Uspavanka Za Radnicu (1982)
* Kosovka Devojka (1984)
* Pljuni I Zapjevaj Moju Pjesmu (1986)
* Ćiribiribela (1988)
Members
* Goran Bregović (guitar, vocals)
* Željko Bebek (vocals)
* Zoran Redžić (bass)
* Ipe Ivandić (drums)
* Alen Islamović (vocals)