The Rijeka Story
Neno Belan is one of Croatia’s most recognizable singer-songwriters, whose music has left a deep mark on the pop-rock and Mediterranean sound. Born in Split on February 2, 1962, he began his career as the frontman of the legendary band Đavoli, later building a strong solo path and forming the Rijeka-based band Neno Belan & Fiumens – with Olja Dešić (bass, backing vocals), Vedran Križan (keyboards, backing vocals), and Leo Rumora (drums), who have accompanied and shaped his distinctive sound for more than two decades.
“Whenever I think of Neno, the first thing that comes to mind is his warmth and those long, beautiful conversations – not only about work, but deeply human, sincere, and full of spirit,” says Katja Restović.
Katja collaborated with Neno on three or four music videos and also created a short documentary film about Đavoli, giving their professional relationship a deeper creative dimension.
A special place in her memory belongs to the music video for “Ponoćna zvona” (Midnight Bells), filmed on Rijeka’s main promenade, Korzo. She worked on the project with her Rijeka team – Igor Modrić and Robert Kalčić – with whom she produced numerous music videos during that period.
“It was a very special experience. At that time, there were no high cranes like the ones used today, so we worked with lifting platforms and played with the light of the city street lamps. Everything carried that rare spirit of collective creativity. Our friend Matejka appeared in the video, Renato added his unique presence, and the makeup was done by Robert Kozjak,” Restović recalls.
Belan’s body of work includes numerous hits and collaborations that have shaped the regional music scene – from his time with Đavoli, through albums such as Luna & Stelle and Rijeka snova with Fiumens, to countless concerts across Croatia and beyond.
“Working with Neno meant being part of a very special musical energy. It was never just about a song – it was about sharing a city, time, ideas, and laughter. I am truly proud of everything we created together and grateful that I had the privilege to be part of that chapter of his career,” says Katja Restović.
Beyond professional achievements and creative projects, what remains most valuable are the moments away from the spotlight – the conversations, the journeys, and the shared experiences that built trust and closeness.
“There are collaborations that end with a project. And then there are those that stay with you. Ours was exactly that,” Restović concludes.
