Left Croatian Roses and Went Solo
Antonio Maričević has released his first solo single 'Otiša' sam', heralding the return of the Mediterranean sound to the domestic scene.
Antonio Maričević has released his first solo single 'Otiša' sam', heralding the return of the Mediterranean sound to the domestic scene.
Just two months after leaving the band Croatian Roses at the beginning of the summer of 2026, singer Antonio Maričević has embarked on a solo career. On Thursday, August 6, 2026, he released his first solo single titled "Otiša' sam". The song brings the sound of Mediterranean pop and entertainment music, with a special touch added by the music video featuring his wife Senka.
Maričević became widely known as a member of Croatian Roses, a band that achieved great success with the duet with Thompson, "Ako ne znaš što je bilo". His first solo song is penned by Neno Ninčević, a well-known domestic hitmaker with whom he also collaborated during his time in the band.
Although the news of his departure from the band surprised many, Maričević emphasizes that it was a joint and well-considered decision. He stresses that there were no clashes with his former colleagues.
"Every friendship survives if it is built on the right foundations, and so does ours. My decision to leave the band left no trace of bitterness in anyone. We made the decisions together so that each of us could develop and move forward in the direction where we see ourselves. That's why Neno remains my songwriter, and from now on I will take care of my career on my own," Maričević told DalmacijaDanas.
With this new musical chapter, the singer wants to offer the audience something he considers somewhat forgotten on the current scene. He finds inspiration in timeless hits of domestic music.
"I want to bring back to the audience that old, recognizable sound that lives among the people today but is rarely heard in new songs, in the vein of the past hits of Oliver, Mišo, and other legends of Mediterranean entertainment music," he said.
The song "Otiša' sam" speaks of life's turning points, departures, and the courage for a new beginning. In the emotional story of the video, his wife Senka represents light and a safe harbor. The couple is considered one of the most harmonious on the domestic entertainment scene, often highlighting mutual respect as the key to a successful marriage. She also took part in selecting the first single.
"When we were choosing songs for my solo album, this one won us over at first listen. I believe this is the best start to a new musical chapter in my life. I am currently assembling my own backing band, and I believe we will soon start performing together," Maričević said.
The initial response from listeners to the single "Otiša' sam" has given him extra motivation to continue his solo path. Ahead of him, as he says, are exciting months.
"I am immensely looking forward to the exciting months ahead, and judging by the audience's reactions, we haven't made a mistake. That is the biggest wind in the sails any singer can get," he concluded.
Assembling his own backing band is already underway, and his first solo performances are expected soon.
