The Unsung History of Turbofolk (Side A) - 302

Unsung Podcast

Turbofolk is basically Serbian, and sometimes occasionally Balkan, pop music. It's something of a thriving scene these days - think eurodance with traditional Balkan rhythms - but it's origins are very, very murky.

It came to prominence in Serbia during the Yugoslav wars in the 90s, and was heavily exploited by Slobodan Milosevic government. In fact, it essentially became propaganda, pushing a nationalist, often ethno-fascist message. Focused on chauvinism, gangsters, guns, obscene wealth and often racism, it's a fascinating subject that soundtracked some of the darkest times, and acts, in human history.

In Side A we talk about the Yugoslav Wars and touch, very briefly, on some of the artists.