Bosnia's Kemal Monteno Mourned Across Balkans

The death of the legendary singer and songwriter Kemal Monteno has united the entire region in sorrow, as artists, politicians and ordinary people alike mourn the passing of a man who entertained generations with his ballads about life and love.

Monteno, who was born in Sarajevo to a mixed Italian-Bosnian marriage, died in a hospital in Zagreb, Croatia, at the age of 67 due to complications caused by kidney failure.

For several years Monteno was struggling with health issues, including diabetes and heart problems. Yet that never stopped him from continuing to record albums and perform across the region.

In a region divided by wars, ethnicity, religion and political tensions, Monteno was one of the few people who had friends and fans everywhere. His performances were always welcomed and treasured.

"My heart is broken," Croatian singer Severina Vuckovic said on her Facebook page.

"Today I am endlessly sad. Rest in peace," Serbian singer Zeljko Samardzic added.

"Great people are leaving, and it is up to us to remember them," said Bosnian singer Dino Merlin.

Politicians joined the chorus. "His work will always remain written in the memories and emotions of many generations," Croatia's new President, Kolinda Grabar-Kotarovic, said.