Born in Belgrade, Miloš Angelov made history on the night of February 1–2, winning two Grammys at the 68th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles for his work on the hit single “Folded” by American R&B star Kehlani.
In the music world, Miloš is better known by his stage name Don Mills. His journey from the Serbian capital, where he developed a love for music under the guidance of his father, a renowned drummer, to Toronto, where his family moved seeking a better life, and finally to the glittering stages of Hollywood, reads like an immigrant dream come true.
Speaking about that night in Los Angeles, Miloš recalls:
“Everything was kind of fast. The seats weren’t numbered, so we sat wherever we could find a spot… Then we hear that ‘Folded’ wins a Grammy for R&B Performance. Kehlani came out really excited and told us to stand and bow. Right after that, the main category, R&B Song of the Year, presented by one of my idols Jimmy Jam, called us again! We were all ecstatic on stage… It felt surreal, but truly wonderful.”
The song “Folded” begins with a violin intro. Miloš explains:
“It wasn’t meant as an homage to my first instrument, although I often use strings. The idea came from my colleague Khris, who recorded it overnight in LA with an ensemble. We listened the next morning, sent it for mixing, and the song was released quickly, without prior announcement or plan.”
Miloš grew up immersed in music, from classical studies in Belgrade to the diverse soundscape of Toronto:
“My dad’s first records included R&B, rock, funk, jazz, fusion. I got headphones as a kid and listened constantly. Classical music wasn’t my destination, but I respected it and understood the importance of discipline and practice. I owe a lot to my parents for their patience during my rebellious years—mid-90s, war, poverty, sanctions. I also had amazing teachers who helped me navigate that period. My role models were my dad Stojan Angelov, legendary drummer, Vasil Hadžimanov, Marko Đorđević, Bato Andonov, and older generation artists like Lale Kovačev and Vojin Draškoci. In high school, I became a percussionist and joined the Stanković Orchestra and Youth Philharmonic. That’s when I started playing bass recreationally, so by the time I arrived in Canada, I had the basics.”
Miloš developed a fascination with jazz, fusion, and R&B, attending jam sessions in Toronto and performing with various bands and artists. Gradually, he transitioned from performing to studio work, production, and composition. “I learned the craft from legends like El Sensei, Igot Vrabac, Doc McKinney, and Ken Nelson. Moving into production felt natural,” he says.
Asked about his stage name, Miloš explains:
“My friends called me Milly and Mills, so they suggested Don Mills—also the name of a famous Toronto neighborhood and street.”
Miloš emphasizes the importance of blending musical influences:
“I love combining genres for contrast and uniqueness. Sometimes it’s planned, other times it depends on inspiration. Balkan ethno music is my first language; it gives me endless melodic ideas. Soul, blues, and R&B are closest to my heart, but when I hear our native music—my soul just reacts.”
Reflecting on his collaborations, Miloš highlights Kehlani:
“She’s wonderful, both personally and in the studio. Winning the Grammys with her felt incredible.”
Miloš also reflects on his immigrant journey:
“For us, it was really the Canadian Dream, made possible by my parents. Now we can provide the same for our children. All awards are meaningful, but Grammys are special—the pinnacle, like a soccer player winning the Ballon d’Or.”
Miloš Angelov, the musical genius from Belgrade and the Balkans, continues to inspire with his talent, ambition, and love for both global and traditional music.