Rani Mraz were a Yugoslav rock band from Novi Sad, formed in 1977 by former Žetva member Đorđe Balašević. During the initial period, the band went through several lineup changes, until Balašević and female singer Biljana Krstić remained the only official members of the band. The two released two studio albums under the name Rani Mraz, before officially dissolving in 1981.
The most famous Rani Mraz lineup, in 1978; from left to right: Bilja Krstić, Verica Todorović, Đorđe Balašević, Bora Đorđević
Đorđe Balašević was a Serbian singer and songwriter, writer, poet and director. He began his career in the late 1970s as a member of the band Rani Mraz, transitioning after two albums to a solo career. He first gained mainstream prominence for writing Rani Mraz's hit "Računajte na nas", which was often described as an anthem of a generation. Noted for his vivid lyricism and poetry, Balašević was also known for weaving political commentary into his songs and live performance.
Balašević in 2010
Balašević in Zagreb, 2010
Balašević in Zagreb, 2017
Mourning site of Balašević located in Sarajevo after his death