The genre's peak featured a lineup of performers now considered legends:
: Jean de la Craiova, Adi de la Vâlcea, Nicu Paleru , and Ștefan de la Bărbulești . Cultural Context Best Of Manele Vechi Generatia cu cheia la gat
: Initially marginalized and controversial, "manele vechi" (old manele) has recently become "cool" again, often played at hip events and nostalgically embraced by the generation that grew up with them. The genre's peak featured a lineup of performers
: Recognized as one of the most prominent vocalists, rising to fame during this transitional period. Adi de la Vâlcea