'The single 'I'll Stay Young' brings the spirit of the '80s to young people, while giving older people a sense of freedom, togetherness and creativity.'

A new single titled “Ostat ću mlad” has been released by the project Pozdrav novom vali, marking its debut with a contemporary reinterpretation of the classic song by the band Animatori. The single was unveiled on July 20, 2026, at 09:51 local time, and serves as the opening step toward a broader studio project dedicated to one of the most influential periods in domestic music history. The track, authored by Krešimir Blažević, blends the recognizable spirit of the 1980s with modern production techniques, preserving the emotional energy of the original while giving it a fresh meaning relevant to today’s audience. The single represents more than just a musical update, it is a creative dialogue between generations. It aims to bridge the past and present by reconnecting younger audiences with the cultural essence of the 1980s while offering older listeners a renewed sense of freedom, community, and creative vitality. This dual approach underscores the project’s intent to move beyond mere nostalgia, instead fostering a living connection between different eras of artistic expression. The collaboration behind the single includes an impressive array of contributors from diverse artistic fields and age groups. Among them are Dušan and Sara Bućan, Igor Kovač, Goran Grgić, Nikša Kušelj, and Kristijan Potočki, alongside Domagoja Vorberger, Krešimira Mišaka, Goran Penavu Pištu, Marina Pelajića, Nevena Kepeskog, Martina Validžić, Nikolina Belan, Borivoja Radaković, Hana Blažević, and Zvonimir Rumboldt. Their involvement reinforces the project’s core philosophy of unity and cross-generational exchange within the creative sphere. The band lineup features Rene Kutičić on drums, Toma Vlčev on bass guitar and vocals, Goran Šeler on guitar and vocals, and Saša Novak on guitar and vocals. As both producer and co-founder of the project, Saša Novak emphasized the importance of authenticity combined with modernity. He described the endeavor as a dynamic tribute rather than a simple repetition of the past. According to him, the recording of the album and single “Ostat ću mlad” offers a unique opportunity to bring the spirit of the 1980s closer to younger generations while restoring the familiar feeling of freedom, solidarity, and creative energy among older ones. The release of the single coincides with broader efforts by Pozdrav novom vali to reinterpret iconic songs from the era, ensuring their legacy endures through new interpretations. These efforts aim not only to preserve the heritage of the new wave movement but also to introduce these works to a new generation of listeners who might otherwise have little familiarity with the genre. The project reflects a growing trend in Croatian music culture to revisit and revitalize historical works through innovative means. As part of this initiative, other related projects have also emerged, including the upcoming album by the group Dorian Gray and the vinyl reissue of the album Sjaj u tami, which set new standards for art rock and the new wave scene in Croatia. These releases highlight a continued interest in revisiting and reimagining the sounds that shaped a generation, ensuring they remain relevant and resonant in contemporary contexts.