John Hart and Ana Popovic discuss music and life at an HPU Talks event held on December 8, 2025.
Blues singer and guitarist Ana Popovic recently visited HPU on December 8, 2025, for the popular HPU Talks series, held at the HPU Theatre at Aloha Tower Marketplace. The event was well attended and hosted by HPU Professor John Hart, Ph.D. The HPU Talks event gave students and members of the community an opportunity to learn about Popovic, who is celebrated for her commitment and determination as an artist and so much more.
Blues singer and guitarist Ana Popovic with HPU Professor John Hart.
Popovic shared different aspects of her path to success in music, reminding how important it is to keep going during tough times. She spoke about her Belgrade, Serbian background and the impact of it in her career,studying music, and the difficulties she faced as a woman in the mostly male blues and rock scenes. Her story was very inspiring at the event and showed how important it is to overcome obstacles.
Popovic has built a long career and is one of the few women widely praised for her guitar playing. She has earned several Blues Music Award nominations including being one of the first European artists ever nominated for the W.C. Handy Blues Award and joined the Experience Hendrix Tour from 2014 to 2018. She has played with artists like Buddy Guy and has become a role model for future female guitarists. During the session, she encouraged self-acceptance and told the audience to "open your own doors," urging them to go after their goals even if others doubt them.
A powerful moment came when Popovic talked about being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, not long after losing her mother to the same disease. Even while going through chemotherapy and getting treatment in other countries, she kept touring and writing music. She described this perseverance as her lifeline.
"Music and my guitar totally saved my life," Popovic told the audience. During this tough time, she made her album Power. She said she wanted to use her position to spread positivity and hope, turning her own struggle into a message of encouragement for others.
The event ended with a Q&A, during which Popovic discussed the obstacles of today's life. As a touring artist, businesswoman, real estate and other things she does while being a mother, she shows how to balance career goals with personal responsibilities. Her visit gave students a real example of commitment and showed that with enough dedication, you can overcome obstacles, trust yourself, and follow your passion.
