Đorđe David sparks outcry after calling Goce Arnaudov song 'old Bulgarian' on Zvezde Granda
The judge's comment that 'Dali cekas stara majchice' was an "old Bulgarian song" during Zvezde Granda prompted calls for a public apology.
Judge Đorđe David's description of a well-known Macedonian song as an "old Bulgarian song" during the regional talent show Zvezde Granda set off a wave of criticism across North Macedonia.
Performance and controversy
On the episode a 20-year-old contestant from Kruševo, Rebeka Jankovska, chose to perform a piece associated with the late folk singer Goce Arnaudov. Instead of attention remaining on her vocal performance, the debate turned to the judge's remark that the anthology composition was Bulgarian in origin.
The comment quickly fueled reactions online. The Facebook page Radio Valandovo 91.6 FM published a forceful post reminding viewers of the song's documented authorship and history. "When it comes to the Macedonian song, ignorance must not be louder than history! The song 'Dali cekas stara majchice' is an original Macedonian song, whose music is by Mile Barbarovski, and the lyrics are by Gjorge Barbarovski, while the arrangement is signed by Zivojin Glisic. This legendary composition was recorded as early as 1994 for Folk Fest Valandovo and represents one of the biggest hits in the career of the unforgettable Goce Arnaudov," the statement read.
Fans and cultural workers demanded a public apology from Đorđe David, arguing that media figures who speak before millions must take care with historical and copyright facts. "Ignorance is not an excuse! The song has its well-known Macedonian authors, and Goce Arnaudov immortalised it," many comments said beneath regional media posts.
Other reactions called specifically for responsibility: "We expect accountability and an apology from Mr. David. Our musical heritage and national emblem must be protected from such incorrect interpretations," readers wrote, while some offered a symbolic invitation to Mr. David to visit Valandovo and learn about the festival and the local tradition first-hand.
Producers and participants in shows with regional reach often face scrutiny when statements touch on cultural ownership. The debate over the authorship and origins of the song underlines how sensitive cultural heritage remains in the Balkans and how quickly a single remark can provoke public uproar.
Photo: press material from the event
