Josipa Lisac supports Duška Brčić-Šušak mid-concert, criticizes harsh judgment

During a concert on the Croatian island of Hvar, music icon Josipa Lisac took a moment to address a recent controversy on the domestic music scene. She offered strong support to young singer Duška Brčić-Šušak, who had faced sharp criticism from fellow artist Jacques Houdek.

Brčić-Šušak had posted a rehearsal video of herself singing a song by the late Oliver Dragojević, which prompted Houdek to publicly describe her performance as "out of tune, hoarse, and off-key." He advised her to seek professional help immediately. This public critique divided opinions among musicians and the public.

Lisac, without naming names but clearly alluding to the incident, spoke about artistic freedom and the right to make mistakes, especially early in a career. "She sang for the right. She relaxed," Lisac told the audience. "Some didn't like it. Even some of our music colleagues." She questioned the value of such criticism, explaining that it deprives young artists of the freedom to express themselves and learn.

"This means you don't give her the freedom to express herself. To learn. You don't give her the opportunity," the diva explained, stressing the importance of support over condemnation. Lisac believes in a broader perspective, viewing the artistic journey as a marathon, not a sprint. "Maybe she wasn't so good now, maybe in a month or two... In a year, she'll be the best," she stated, calling for empathy and altruism. "So, somehow, have a bit of altruism within you. Carry this human impulse to never judge," she advised, adding that truth is subjective and everyone has the right to their own perspective.