Iva Pažin, aka Zhiva: Breaking Genre Barriers and Tackling Mental Health

Iva Pažin, aka Zhiva, is a young musician making waves in the music industry with her unique blend of alternative pop, jazz, hip-hop, and reggae. Her debut album, “Preterujem,” has garnered attention for its genre-bending sound and thought-provoking lyrics, which tackle the often-stigmatized topic of mental health.

A Genre-Defying Debut Album

Although Zhiva is often categorized as a pop singer, her music defies traditional genre boundaries. Her debut album, “Preterujem,” is a testament to her eclectic taste in music, with influences ranging from Bill Evans to Jinjer. This diversity is reflected in the album’s sound, which seamlessly blends different styles to create a unique listening experience.

Breaking the Mold with “Topiljena”

Zhiva’s music video for “Topiljena” has been making waves online, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics. The song stands out from the rest of the album, with its focus on love and relationships. Zhiva explains that she wanted to break the mold with this song, which is why it’s included on the album.

A Conversation with Zhiva

We had the opportunity to sit down with Zhiva and talk about her music, inspirations, and creative process.

On Her Musical Expression

“I believe that genre divisions in music are no longer relevant. I grew up listening to different types of music, and I always managed to find something that resonated with me. This is reflected in my album, which is a fusion of different styles and genres.”

On Her Songwriting Process

“As a songwriter, I want to be honest and authentic. I stand behind every word I write and sing. I wouldn’t mind singing other people’s lyrics, as long as they resonate with me.”

On Mental Health and Creativity

“The topic of mental health came up naturally in my music. Working on the album was therapeutic for me, as it helped me face my own struggles and emotions. I hope that my music can help others who are going through similar experiences.”

On Her Future Plans

“I’m currently working on my second album, which is planned for release at the end of 2024. I’m also excited to announce that we’ll be performing in Belgrade and Sarajevo soon. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my music with my audience and connect with them on a deeper level.”