Toše Proeski: Balkan region marks 19th anniversary of singer's death

The Balkan region marks the 19th anniversary of the death of Macedonian pop singer Toše Proeski, who died in a car accident on the Zagreb-Belgrade highway near Nova Gradiška, Croatia, on October 16, 2007. Proeski, often referred to as the ‘Macedonian Nightingale,’ was a highly influential artist and a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador known for his humanitarian work.

Commemorative events are being held across the region. In Nova Gradiška, the 19th memorial marathon has launched, carrying runners over 700 kilometers from Croatia to Proeski’s birthplace, Kruševo, in North Macedonia. In Skopje, community events including musical performances by various artists and the opening of a memorial garden are taking place to honor his legacy of kindness and music.

Proeski’s career, which began at age 15, included representing North Macedonia at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2004 and releasing seven studio albums. His music continues to be celebrated through documentary programming, memorial gatherings, and the enduring popularity of hits such as ‘Igra bez granica’ and ‘Čija si’.