Mirko Kogoj, better known by his stage name Robert Cogoi, was born in Chatelet,Belgium on 25th October 1939 to Yugoslav parents. During his studies years, he studied electromechanical technician at the University of Labor in Charleroi, Belgium.
A few years later on 22nd April 1962 he competed at the Grand Prix International des Variétés in Oostende with the song “Si un jour” and won the competition, soon after “Si un jour” became a hit in France.
That competition let him open the doors to a successful musical career and he signed with a record company with ”Philips Radio Luxembourg”.
Soon after he released sing like”Pardonnez-moi Seigneur”, ”Tu mens, mon amour”, ‘Dou, dou, dou, doux” and others until in 1963 he released his first album called ”Je serais mieux chez moi”.
In 1964 he was internally selected by RTBF to represent Belgium at the Eurovision 1964 with the song ”Près de ma rivière” where he came 10th place.
From 1964 till 1967 has released 4 albums and countless singles and was successful in Belgium.
In 1982 Robert sang French version of official Belgian World Cup ”“Les Diables Rouges vont en Espagne””.
On the early 2000’s he became director of the board of directors of SABAM (Belgium associations of authors, composers, and publishers) under the management of Paul Louka.
In 2004 he was awarded the Order of the Crown by King Albert II of Belgium for his work and services to the music.
In 2005 he appeared at Belgium national final alongside other former Belgian entrants.
From 2005 to 2010 he had multiple concert tours around Belgium until his retirement. He spent his retirement until his death in Lobbes, Belgium. He passed away on 14th May 2022.
ESCBEAT sends their condolences to his family, friends, anyone who knew him, and his fans.
