On 24 September 2025, the lecture hall of the Szabó Lőrinc Foreign Language Library in Miskolc once again welcomed a full audience for the latest presentation in Emőke Rémiás’s lecture series, Chapters from the History of Polish Popular Music. This time, the spotlight was on the vibrant and eventful 1980s—a decade when Polish popular music served not only as entertainment, but also as a refuge and a form of quiet rebellion.
The era was shaped by the rise of new wave and synth-pop, alongside the growing popularity of heavy metal. In her engaging presentation, Emőke introduced legendary Polish bands such as BAJM, Dżem, Lady Pank, Lombard, and Perfect, whose songs not only captivated audiences but also reflected the growing dissatisfaction with the communist regime.
One particularly fascinating part of the lecture focused on Marek Biliński, often referred to as the “Polish Jean-Michel Jarre.” The audience also learned about Lady Pank’s first reaction to Madonna’s debut performance—a judgement the band later came to regret. Jazz and international music enthusiasts discovered how the world-famous Polish singer Basia became a member of the British band Matt Bianco in the mid-1980s, launching her international career.
The evening was not only informative but also highly interactive. Audience members actively participated throughout the lecture, asking questions and sharing their own memories and experiences. The programme concluded with an informal discussion, giving participants the opportunity to continue the conversation in a relaxed atmosphere.
Once again, Emőke Rémiás demonstrated that Polish popular music is far more than entertainment—it is also a reflection of the country’s cultural and social history. The stories of the 1980s remain just as fascinating today as they were decades ago. The audience was especially pleased to hear that, due to the richness and diversity of this remarkable era, Emőke plans to continue the topic in future lectures, as a single presentation could not possibly cover all of its memorable stories and musical treasures.
Written by: Mónika Szabó
Photographs: Péter Bárkányi
