Macedonia Mourns Loss of Beloved Son

Toshe Proeski

1981-2007

Today is a sad day here in Macedonia as earlier this morning singer Toshe was killed a tragic car accident in Croatia. He was a very talented young man who could sing classical like Pavoratti, disco like Tom Jones, and rock/pop with his own unique style. Honestly, I don't know that there was a genre of music that he couldn't sing, and sing with near perfection. He made difficult stylings, rhythms and melodies seem so easy -- when truly they weren't.

Hundreds are gathered in the city squares all over the country... crying, placing candles, flowers, pictures, and letters in memorial while trying to come to grips with the shock of his suddenly being gone. Just 10 days ago he'd held a concert in the city stadium to a sold-out crowd. Tonight, just minutes ago, the beating of helicopter blades echoed ominously through the city as it flew overhead, heading toward the airport, carrying Macedonia's beloved son back home.

Tomorrow will be a national day of mourning and the funeral will be held in his hometown of Krushevo. Toshe is remembered not only as a talented singer, but a young man with a very big heart, especially for kids, a great humanitarian who loved people, and his country. A Macedonian treasure.

Here's a link to a You Tube tribute by a fan: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OclMzxOdEgY