Magda Umer, the renowned Polish singer-songwriter and director, has passed away at the age of 76. Her family announced the sad news through social media on Friday, expressing their sorrow and stating, “Today, our beloved Mom and Grandma left us.”
Magda Umer’s Early Life and Career
Born on October 9, 1949, Magda Umer began her musical journey during her university years. She debuted at the Abakus cabaret and later became associated with the Stodoła Student Club cabaret. In 1969, she gained recognition at the Winter Student Song Festival in Opole, where she won third place for her performance of “Jeśli myślisz, że ja ciebie nie kocham.”
That same year, Umer made her debut at the National Festival of Polish Song in Opole, further establishing herself as a prominent figure in Polish music.
Notable Works and Achievements
- Released her first album in 1972, featuring the hit “Koncert jesienny na dwa świerszcze i wiatr w kominie.”
- Interpreted poetry in music, performing works by famous poets like Bolesław Leśmian and Tadeusz Gajcy.
- Created television recitals such as “Cienie” and “Wszystko już było.”
- Directed theatrical poetic performances, including “Biała bluzka” and “Kobieta zawstydzona.”
In 1984, Umer performed “Szpetni czterdziestoletni” and “Kiedy mnie już nie będzie” at the 21st KFPP in Opole. Her directorial work includes the 1997 concert “Zielono mi,” a tribute to Agnieszka Osiecka, and the 2015 concert “Scenki i obscenki,” which won her the Grand Prix.
Accolades and Honors
Magda Umer received numerous awards throughout her career, including:
- 2000: Knight’s Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta.
- 2009: Medal “Zasłużony Kulturze Gloria Artis.”
- 2020: 100th Anniversary ZAiKS Award.
- 2013: Festival Icon Award at KFPP.
Legacy and Remembrances
Magda Umer’s contributions to Polish culture are profound. Journalists and critics widely remember her as a cultural icon. Paweł Sztompke highlighted the significant loss to Polish music, comparing it to the loss of great composers. Meanwhile, Tomasz Raczek emphasized her unique, intimate, and fearless approach to life and art.
Umer’s legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts and minds of those who cherished her music and artistry. Her passing marks the end of an era in the Polish music scene.
