polish funk

Polish Funk: A Groovy History

“Funk is like a good laugh, it’s hard to explain, but you know it when you feel it.” – Anonymous

Forget your images of disco balls and bell bottoms, Polish funk is a different breed! Born in the late 70s and early 80s, it was a vibrant response to the Western funk explosion, with a distinctly Eastern European twist. While the global funk scene was dominated by heavy basslines and catchy melodies, Polish funk took on a more experimental, even sometimes chaotic, path.

The Funky Beginnings

The roots of Polish funk can be traced back to the burgeoning jazz scene of the 70s. Bands like SBB and Zbigniew Namysłowski started experimenting with funk elements, infusing their jazz sounds with groovy rhythms and infectious grooves. However, the true birth of Polish funk is often attributed to Kombi, a band known for its catchy pop tunes and energetic live performances. Their 1979 hit “Słodki Słoneczny Dzień” (Sweet Sunny Day) became a national anthem, blending pop sensibility with funk’s infectious energy.

The Rise of the “Funky Guys”

The 80s saw the emergence of a new generation of Polish funk bands, collectively known as the “Funky Guys.” These bands, including Perfect, Dżem, and Lady Pank, pushed the boundaries of the genre, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and even disco into their sound. They became incredibly popular, filling stadiums and dominating the airwaves with their unique blend of funk and Polish spirit.

Fun Facts:

• Perfect’s frontman, Grzegorz Markowski, was known for his theatrical stage presence and flamboyant outfits. He once wore a giant inflatable dinosaur suit during a concert, much to the amusement of the audience.
• Dżem’s lead singer, Ryszard Riedel, was a legendary figure in Polish music, known for his powerful vocals and enigmatic persona. He famously wore a skull-shaped ring on his finger, which became a symbol of the band’s rebellious spirit.
• Lady Pank was known for their catchy tunes and energetic performances, which often included elaborate stage productions. They once performed a concert with a giant inflatable shark, which famously malfunctioned and ended up deflated on stage.

The Legacy of Polish Funk

While the heyday of Polish funk ended with the fall of the Iron Curtain, its legacy continues to influence contemporary Polish music. Bands like T.Love and Kult have incorporated funk elements into their sound, showcasing the genre’s lasting impact. Today, a new generation of artists is rediscovering the infectious grooves and innovative spirit of Polish funk, ensuring that its legacy will continue to inspire music lovers for years to come.

“Polish funk is like a good joke, it’s unexpected, hilarious, and leaves you wanting more.” – Anonymous