Bata Illic receives lifetime achievement award in Berlin

German Schlager singer Bata Illic has been honored with a lifetime achievement award from Schlager Radio. The 87-year-old artist received the distinction during a concert titled ‘Schlager trifft Klassik’ at the Berliner Philharmonie in front of more than 2,000 attendees.

Oliver Dunk, the managing director of Schlager Radio, presented the trophy to Illic, noting his decades-long career and significant contributions to German Schlager history, including 62 appearances on the ‘ZDF Hitparade’. Illic, who rose to prominence in the 1970s with hits such as ‘Michaela’, performed a medley of his most popular songs accompanied by Ronny Heinrich and his orchestra.

During the ceremony, Illic expressed his gratitude, stating, ‘This award means a lot to me. It is wonderful to know that my music still inspires people today.’