Frenkie | |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Frenk the Tenk, Frenkoza, Frenkzilla, Charlie, Frenkie Veličanstveni |
| Born | Adnan Hamidović (1982-05-31)31 May 1982 (age 43) |
| Genres | Hip-hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, songwriter, author |
| Years active | 1997–present |
| Labels | FMJam [bs],Menart Records, Hayat Production,Universal Music Group |
| Website | Official website |
Adnan Hamidović (born 31 May 1982), known professionally asFrenkie, is aBosnian rapper, songwriter, author, andgraffiti artist. One of the most prominent figures in Balkan hip-hop, he is recognized for his socially and politically conscious lyrics; addressing corruption, nationalism, and post-war realities inBosnia and Herzegovina.[1][2]
Frenkie was born inBijeljina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, then part ofYugoslavia. During theBosnian War, his family moved toNuremberg,Germany, where he was introduced to hip-hop music and graffiti culture.[3] After returning to Bosnia in 1998, he settled inTuzla, where he became active in the local underground hip-hop scene.
In 1999, Frenkie co-founded the hip-hop collectiveFMJam [bs], a platform for independent artists based in Tuzla. He became part of the groupDisciplinska komisija, along with notable regional rappers includingEdo Maajka.[4]
He initially collaborated with Edo Maajka on early projects, gaining recognition for his energetic delivery and lyrics addressing post-war Bosnian identity and social injustice.
Frenkie released his debut solo album,Odličan CD, in 2005. The following year, his politically charged albumDOSTA! featured the controversial track "Mr. Policeman", criticizing police corruption. The song attracted significant media attention and led toRadio Sarajevo being fined for broadcasting it.[5]
In 2007, he releasedPovratak Cigana (Return of the Gypsies), followed byProtuotrov (2009), andTroyanac (2012), albums that further solidified his reputation as a socially engaged artist.
His song "Soundtrack" was featured in the 2008 Marvel filmThe Incredible Hulk.[6]
In 2016, Frenkie collaborated with Bosnian rapper Kontra and producer Indigo on the albumPutanja, blending hip hop with electronic influences. The trio gained international exposure and performed across Europe.[7]
In 2017, the group releasedEgzil, recorded in Tokyo, Japan, through the Red Bull Music Studios, reflecting themes of displacement and cultural exchange.[8]
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of FM Jam, Frenkie released20/20 in 2019. The album was recorded at Red Bull Studios in Los Angeles and received critical acclaim in the regional press.[9]
That same year, Frenkie published two books:Koraci, a memoir of his career in music, andLack - Made in Bosnia, a book documenting his work and travels as a graffiti artist.[10]
Frenkie’s lyrics often focus on political corruption, post-war recovery, youth disillusionment, and freedom of expression. He is also known for addressing controversial topics such as police brutality and ethnic divisions in Bosnia and Herzegovina.[2]
He has also integrated elements of graffiti and street art into his artistic identity, and is considered one of the earliest hip-hop artists in the region to bridge rap music and visual urban culture.[10]
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