Memorial service held for Oliver Dragojevic in Split

The ceremony was attended by senior state officials and the singer's family and friends.

“He was the soul of Croatia,” Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said, speaking to the press before the service.

“What he gave to many generations in the last half-century has left a mark on all of us, it is a part of our identity, our emotions, and our childhood. He was a great man, and this is the least we can do for him today,” he said.

Born in Split in 1947, Dragojevic spent his childhood growing up in the town of Vela Luka on the island of Korcula. Dragojevic enjoyed a career spanning four decades and was considered one of the most iconic music stars in Croatia and in the Croatian diaspora around the world.

He was one of the few Croatian musicians who has performed at the Carnegie Hall in New York, the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Olympia in Paris and the Sydney Opera House.

“With his unique Dalmatian sound, and his personality, Oliver united the whole of Croatia, and its diaspora. I will miss him very much,” said Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic.

Oliver Dragojevic was a "great artist who attracted people with his humanity, kindness and warmth,” said Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandrokovic.

Dragojevic will be buried in Vela Luka on the island of Korcula on Wednesday.

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