Marija Šerifović

Early Life

Marija Šerifović was born on November 14, 1984, in Kragujevac, Serbia, to musicians Verica and Rajko Šerifović. As an only child, her early life was marked by challenges, including her father's abandonment of the family and his struggles with alcoholism. Despite these difficulties, Marija pursued her passion for music, making her recording debut in 1998 with a performance of "Moje bube" alongside her mother. She graduated from the First Grammar School in Kragujevac, laying the groundwork for her future career.

Career

Šerifović's professional journey began with the release of her debut album, "Naj, najbolja," in 2003 under City Records. Her participation in the Pjesma Mediterana music festival in 2004, where she won first prize, marked a significant milestone. However, her career skyrocketed in 2007 when she won the Eurovision Song Contest with her powerful ballad "Molitva," becoming Serbia's first and only winner in the competition's history. Following this triumph, she released several successful albums, including "Nisam anđeo" and "Anđeo," which solidified her status as a pop music icon in Serbia.

Personal Life

In addition to her musical achievements, Šerifović has been open about her sexual orientation, identifying as a lesbian since 2004. She has expressed her support for LGBTQ+ rights, notably incorporating the rainbow flag into her performances. In December 2023, she became a mother through surrogacy, embracing a new chapter in her life. Despite past controversies, including a performance at a political rally, she has remained a beloved figure in the Serbian music scene, often reflecting on her connection to the broader region of former Yugoslavia.