Singer Marta Kubišová will be inducted into the Czech Nightingale Hall of Fame this year. He will receive the award at the award ceremony on November 29 at the Karlín Forum in Prague, Nova TV, the host, informed this Thursday. Theater actor Jiří Suchý became the first member of the Hall of Fame in 2022, followed last year by singer Václav Neckář.
The organizers of the poll on the most popular singers and bands opened a hall of fame the year before last for the first time in the competition’s 60-year history for those who contributed to the creation, development or support of Czech popular music. For example, the Beat Hall of Fame or the Anděl Awards Hall of Fame, and abroad the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame work similarly.
Marta Kubišová, who recently celebrated her 82nd birthday, became a star of the Czechoslovak music scene in the 1960s. She won the survey for the most popular singer Golden Nightingale three times, in 1966, 1968 and 1969. She performed with Helena Vondráčková and Václav Neckár in the popular trio Golden Kids. Her songs at that time Loudá se half-moon, Oh, baby, baby, Adventures with god Pan, Let the bells ring, Lampa, Ring-o-ding or Magdalena became hits.
She played in her ex-husband Jan Němec’s film Martyrs of Love or in the series Song for Rudolf III, in which the famous Prayer for Martha was sung. It became one of the symbols of the Velvet Revolution in November 1989.
During normalization, Kubišová was not allowed to speak publicly. The former spokeswoman of Charter 77 was able to return to the stage almost 20 years after the fall of the communist regime. She released her last studio album called Soul eight years ago and officially ended her singing career in November 2017. Since then, he has performed only rarely.
At this year’s Český slavík award ceremony, last year’s Absolute Nightingale award winner Ewa Farna, Marie Rottrová, Marek Ztracený, Tomáš Klus, Michal David or the band Mirai will perform, among others. “We will also commemorate thirty years since the premiere of the Czech production of the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar. Bára Basiková, Kamil Střihavka and Dan Bárta will return to their roles for a while,” says creative producer and director of the live broadcast Pepe Majeský. Singer Pam Rabbit, singer Sofian Medjmedj and the band Brixtn, nominated in the category of discovery of the year, will also perform live.
Fans can vote on the Český slavík website until November 17 for a maximum of six favorites in the categories Singer, Singer, Music Group and Hip Hop and Rap.
The nationwide survey for the most popular male singer and musical group was invented in 1962 by the editors of the magazine Mladý svět at the time. Until 1991, it bore the name Golden Nightingale. The rights to organize the poll are now owned by TV Nova.
How has Marta Kubišová’s music impacted the Czech cultural landscape over the years?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Music Expert on Marta Kubišová’s Hall of Fame Induction
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today we have a special guest, music expert Dr. Alena Novotná, to discuss the remarkable induction of the legendary Czech singer Marta Kubišová into the Czech Nightingale Hall of Fame. Alena, thank you for joining us today!
Dr. Alena Novotná: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an iconic figure in Czech music.
Editor: Marta Kubišová’s induction is set to take place on November 29 at the Karlín Forum in Prague. What does this recognition mean for her and for Czech music as a whole?
Dr. Novotná: This induction is not just a personal honor for Marta; it signifies an acknowledgment of her immense contribution to Czech popular music. Over her long career, she has become synonymous with the Czechoslovak music scene, especially during the 1960s. Her influence resonates, showcasing how music can define and reflect societal changes.
Editor: Indeed, her music came at a time of significant cultural shifts. Can you elaborate on her impact during the 1960s and beyond?
Dr. Novotná: Absolutely! Marta Kubišová emerged as a star during a tumultuous period in Czechoslovakia. Her hits like “Loudá se half-moon” and “Adventures with god Pan” not only topped the charts but also resonated deeply with the public. Her ability to capture the spirit of the era through her music helped shape the national identity in difficult times. She is a testament to the power of art as a form of resistance and expression.
Editor: Very well said! She was part of the popular trio Golden Kids along with Helena Vondráčková and Václav Neckář. What do you think made their collaboration so special?
Dr. Novotná: The chemistry within the trio was magical! Each member brought a unique style and vocal quality to the group, creating harmonies that were both rich and memorable. Their collective artistry helped them become beloved figures in the music industry, and songs from that era continue to be celebrated today. It’s a perfect example of how collaboration can amplify individual talent.
Editor: Marta recently celebrated her 82nd birthday. How has she managed to maintain her relevance over the decades?
Dr. Novotná: Marta has always been incredibly adaptable, transitioning through various musical styles and societal changes while staying true to her artistic roots. Her ability to connect with new generations of listeners, perhaps through collaborations or social media, has kept her relevant. Moreover, her story—of resilience and evolution—speaks to many, making her an enduring icon.
Editor: As part of the Hall of Fame, Marta follows in the footsteps of pioneers like Jiří Suchý and Václav Neckář. What does this signify for the legacy of Czech popular music?
Dr. Novotná: This is a crucial step in preserving and honoring the history of our musical landscape. Inductions like these not only acknowledge the artists’ contributions but also inspire future generations to appreciate and continue their legacies. It’s a reminder of the rich tapestry of Czech music and the importance of celebrating those who paved the way.
Editor: Thank you, Alena, for your insights! what do you hope to see from the Czech Nightingale Hall of Fame in the future?
Dr. Novotná: I hope to see it continue to grow and evolve, perhaps implementing educational programs or exhibitions that delve deeper into the contributions of these artists. It would be wonderful to see young musicians inspired by legends like Marta Kubišová. The Hall of Fame should also serve as a platform to celebrate the diverse voices within the Czech music scene.
Editor: Thank you so much for your time, Alena! We look forward to celebrating Marta Kubišová’s induction and the continuing legacy of Czech music.
Dr. Novotná: Thank you! It’s an exciting time for Czech music, and I can’t wait for the ceremony!