Slavko Avsenik (November 26, 1929 – July 2, 2015) was a Slovene composer and musician. Beginning in 1953 with the formation of the Avsenik Brothers Ensemble, Avsenik produced more than 1,000 songs and enjoyed success both in Slovenia and in other parts of Europe and America, and is viewed as a Slovenian cultural icon.
The Avsenik saga began in 1953 when a band formed in Slovenia. Soon after that, they achieved success and were broadcasted on the Slovenian Hour in Austria, and started to appear in broadcasts, movies, and concerts in West Germany.
The Ensemble performed in fron of millions, including heads both States, on radio and television, and in fron of thousands on concerts. Selling over 30 million records, Avsenik has earned thirty-one Gold, two Diamond, and one Platinum record.
Avsenik collaborated with his brother, Vilko, to produce nearly 1000 original compositions and an integral part of the Cleveland-Style legacy.
