Jacques Houdek

Early Life and Education

Jacques Houdek, born Željko Houdek on April 14, 1981, in Velika Gorica, Croatia, showed an early passion for music. His musical journey began at a young age when he attended elementary music school focusing on piano. He later enrolled in both a music high school, specializing in solo singing, and a vocational hairdressing school. Under the guidance of professor Viktorija Badrov, he honed his vocal skills, initially aspiring to become an opera singer. After graduating high school in 2001, Houdek pursued further education at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, enhancing his craft through seminars across Europe, where he was mentored by Grammy-nominated artist Donna McElroy.

Career

Houdek's professional career took off in 2000 with his first solo concert in Zagreb, where he performed various covers. His debut single, "Čarolija" (Magic), was released in 2002 and showcased at Dora, Croatia's national Eurovision selection. This performance caught the attention of maestro Zdravko Šljivac, leading to a contract with Croatia Records, where he has since released 13 albums. Notably, he represented Croatia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song "My Friend". Beyond music, Houdek has lent his voice to characters in animated films, including Aladdin in the Croatian dub. He has also participated in various talent shows, including X Factor, where he earned the nickname "Croatian Sensation."

Personal Life

Married to Brigita Krkač since 2006, Houdek is a devoted family man with two children, daughter Sofija and son David. Despite his involvement in political campaigns through music, he maintains a stance of being apolitical, viewing these engagements as professional opportunities rather than political endorsements.

Legacy

Jacques Houdek is a celebrated figure in Croatian music, recognized with multiple awards, including four Porin awards for his contributions to the industry. His versatility is evident as he has recorded in various languages, showcasing his broad appeal and talent across different musical genres.