"Heart of Stone" Dedicated to Those Who Were Betrayed
Montenegrin singer-songwriter Jelena Kažanegra recently spoke with Vijesti about her new single, “Srce kameno” (Heart of Stone), and the life lessons that have shaped her journey in music. With a career spanning over two decades, Jelena has established herself as a prominent figure in the Montenegrin music scene, known for her exceptional vocal abilities and songwriting talent.
After a three-year hiatus from releasing new music, Jelena's latest single marks a significant return. She reflects on the challenges that kept her from recording, including the pandemic and personal struggles. “After the song ‘Maslina,’ there was a lot of work and performances, but unfortunately, our job was completely disabled by the corona,” she explains. During this time, her focus shifted to her family, particularly her younger son, who needed her support.
Despite these challenges, Jelena found inspiration during the summer months, leading to the creation of her previous single, “Mjesečar.” However, a serious injury from a boiling tea accident forced her to take a step back and reassess her priorities. “All of these events are ‘to blame’ for the fact that I ended up publishing a song once every three years,” she admits.
With “Srce kameno,” Jelena continues to assert her identity as a singer-songwriter. She has been writing since childhood, winning awards for her poetry and eventually transitioning into music. “As the years went by, I started a family, gained a lot of life experience, and it was as if my brain had released what I had been suppressing for a long time,” she shares. This newfound creative freedom has allowed her to explore her own musical voice, although she remains open to collaborating with other artists in the future.
The song “Srce kameno” delves into themes of heartbreak and betrayal, resonating with anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken relationship. Jelena explains that the song is not solely about romantic disappointment but speaks to anyone who has felt betrayed in various aspects of life. “This song should help you to get rid of everything negative, to throw out what is bothering you and move on,” she emphasizes.
Jelena reflects on the challenges of navigating the Montenegrin music scene, which is small and lacks the support of major record labels. “I think that when you have a good song and it reaches people's hearts, it's not difficult,” she states. However, she acknowledges the importance of having a supportive network. “On the one hand, it's harder, but they say that luck favors the brave, and it really is.”
Despite the obstacles, Jelena remains committed to her craft, focusing on creating music that resonates with her audience. “The only thing we're guided by is to leave a good impression on the listeners with our performance,” she concludes.
Jelena Kažanegra's journey as a singer-songwriter is a testament to resilience and creativity. With her new single “Srce kameno,” she not only showcases her musical talent but also offers a message of empowerment for those who have faced betrayal. As she continues to navigate the challenges of the music industry, Jelena's passion for her art and her dedication to her audience remain unwavering.