Severina criticized for using title of Džej's song to boost views

Croatian pop star Severina Vučković is facing criticism from associates of the late folk singer Džej Ramadanovski after releasing a new track whose title leans on the name of Džej's famous song.

According to a report by journalist Aleksandar Panić, Severina released the song under the title "Svirajte mi 'Rađaj sinove'", a move that, critics say, has pushed her recording ahead of the original in YouTube search results and appears aimed at increasing views.

Composer and close collaborators protest

Aleksandar Radulović — Futa, who wrote the original 1993 hit, told the press that no one sought his permission to use the lyrics and musical theme. He said the release seems calculated to ride the notoriety of the original.

Futa commented: "It's rather obvious what this is about and what the goal was. It's a familiar trick among the public — the song now appears first when you type 'Rađaj sinove' because it's new."

Zoran Jagodić — Rule, Džej's former pianist, kume (best man) and close friend, was even more direct in his criticism, calling the move a cheap click-grab and questioning the song's artistic value. He added that neither of Džej's daughters, Marija and Ana, were contacted for permission.

Rule said: "Severina did this on her own. The composer looked who would 'fall' for it to latch onto Džej's name. They should have asked, it's his identity. They didn't contact Džej's daughters, Marija and Ana, for permission. Apart from that verse 'Rađaj sinove', everything else in the song is thrown together and doesn't amount to anything. It's all just for views."

The dispute highlights tensions that arise when contemporary artists reference or reuse well-known material from deceased performers, and raises questions about permission, rights and how search algorithms can affect visibility on streaming platforms.

Photo: press material from the event