Josipa Lisac Defends Duška Brčić-Šušak
The music diva from Hvar sent a powerful message about freedom of expression, responding to the heated debate sparked by Jacques Houdek's public criticism.
The music diva from Hvar sent a powerful message about freedom of expression, responding to the heated debate sparked by Jacques Houdek's public criticism.
Josipa Lisac performed on Hvar and from the stage delivered a message that resonated with the Croatian public. Although she did not directly name those involved, her words were unequivocally interpreted as a reaction to the uproar that followed singer Duška Brčić-Šušak's performance at an event dedicated to Oliver Dragojević, as well as the harsh criticism publicly directed at her by Jacques Houdek.
The 76-year-old music diva addressed the audience, emphasizing the importance of support and freedom of artistic expression. "And what happened? A woman simply sang! She let loose; it was Oliver's evenings. Some didn't like it, even some of our fellow musicians," Lisac began her speech, as reported by Story.hr.
Lisac stressed that it's crucial to provide an opportunity for growth and learning rather than judgment. "That means you're not giving her the freedom to express herself. To learn. You're not giving her the chance or support. Maybe she wasn't that good now, but maybe in a month, two, or a year, she'll be the best," the singer said.
In an emotional address, she called for understanding and the rejection of hasty judgments. "You need to have altruism within you, to carry a human impulse never to judge. Because where is the truth? Everyone has their own truth. You know what I'm talking about. We all must have that freedom of expression, and then you see who's good and who isn't; it's all very simple. In fact, I like it; some of us like it," said Josipa Lisac, and the audience on Hvar rewarded her with thunderous applause.
The debate escalated after Jacques Houdek analyzed Duška Brčić-Šušak's performance in detail on social media. His post was direct and unsparing. "No way... No way! Unfortunately... Duška is talented, and her interpretation comes from a truly, it seems, sincere place, but her voice is unfortunately sick; this is a diagnosis of the vocal cords... Out of tune, hoarse," Houdek wrote, insisting it was a chronic condition requiring immediate professional help.
In response to these claims came a calm but clear reply from the singer herself. "Dear Jacques, I was scared when I read the message, but I must say that a few months ago I had an examination, and thankfully, everything is fine with my vocal cords," Duška Brčić-Šušak responded. She added that she fully respects if he doesn't like her way of singing or interpretation, but that her health being okay is what matters most to her.
Photos from Josipa Lisac's performance on Hvar were taken by Robert Gašpert.
