Hari Mata Hari, interview: About concerts in Sava Center, Belgrade, why he doesn’t miss Yugoslavia… Hari Mata Hari is set to perform two concerts at Belgrade’s Sava Center, featuring his greatest hits. He looks back fondly on his past experiences in Belgrade, including a memorable series of concerts in the late nineties after a significant break due to war. Mata Hari discusses his evolving perspective on Belgrade, comparing his youthful memories to his current view as a sixty-year-old, and reflects on the persistent regional connections that make Yugoslavia feel alive. He also touches on the evolution of music and songwriting, noting that while things change, romance and positive shifts are still present.

• Hari Mata Hari will perform two concerts at Sava Center in Belgrade on March 20 and 21.
• The concerts will feature his greatest hits, with the setlist prioritizing audience connection over surprises.
• He recalls a series of over ten consecutive concerts in Belgrade in the late nineties as a particularly spectacular and positive memory.
• Mata Hari compares his current perception of Belgrade to his younger days, noting a preference for the past but acknowledging a continued connection through friendships.
• He believes Yugoslavia, in a regional sense, still exists and functions similarly, with people traveling and connecting across former borders.
• Regarding songwriting, he explains that songs are developed gradually, often starting with a melodic idea or a significant phrase, rather than appearing fully formed.
• He is proud that his song ‘Lejla’ is featured in the ‘Magic Fountain of Montjuïc’ show in Barcelona.
• Mata Hari reveals he was the producer and composer for Finnish musician Jani Hurme, contrary to the perception that Hurme was simply covering his songs.