The chorus captures the song's deep sorrow, a hallmark of Zdravković's poetic style:
Years later, in , Toma wrote "Šta će mi život" specifically for her to express his thanks. It became a massive hit, selling over 300,000 copies and solidifying both of them as superstars. Key Details & Versions
First recorded by Silvana Armenulić in 1970 on a single that also featured music from the TV series Ljubav na seoski način .
Though he wrote it, Toma recorded his own versions later, most notably on the 1990 album Kafana je moja istina .
This song remains a staple in Balkan music, frequently covered and celebrated as a masterpiece of the genre.
Šta Će Mi Život – Song by Silvana Armenulic - Apple Music
The song was born out of a profound gesture of gratitude. In the 1950s, while Toma Zdravković was struggling and homeless, the established singer discovered him sitting on a park bench. She helped him secure his first singing jobs and launched his career.
"Noćas mi srce pati, noćas me duša boli, Teško je kad se voli, kad ostaneš sam." (Tonight my heart suffers, tonight my soul aches,It's hard when you love and are left alone.)