In the storied history of MTV Unplugged, few performances have captured the essence of artistic evolution quite like Wojciech Waglewski's recent addition to the prestigious series. The legendary Polish musician, who has been shaping the landscape of Polish music since founding Voo Voo in 1985, has now delivered what might be the crowning achievement of his illustrious career.
The concert, recorded on April 10, 2024, at Warsaw's Teatr Dramatyczny im. Gustawa Holoubka, represents more than just another entry in the MTV Unplugged canon—it's a testament to the enduring power of musical reinvention. For those unfamiliar with Waglewski's impact on Polish culture, he has been a pivotal figure in combining rock with jazz and folk elements from various regions of the world, creating a unique sonic palette that has influenced generations of musicians.
The MTV Unplugged format has long served as a litmus test for genuine artistry. Following in the footsteps of iconic performances that have defined the series, Waglewski's interpretation brings a distinctly Polish perspective to this global stage. The setting of the Teatr Dramatyczny provided an intimate atmosphere that perfectly complemented the stripped-down arrangements of his extensive catalog.
What makes this recording particularly special is the carefully curated list of guest appearances. The concert featured an extraordinary lineup including Maciej Maleńczuk, Maria Peszek, and the family band Waglewski Fisz Emade—a project that uniquely brings together Wojciech and his sons, Bartosz "Fisz" Waglewski and Piotr "Emade" Waglewski. This family dynamic adds an emotional depth to the performances that transcends mere musical collaboration.
Released today on CD format, the album "Wojciech Waglewski MTV Unplugged" includes an exclusive bonus track, "Piątek," which wasn't featured in the television broadcast. This addition provides fans with an extra incentive to experience the full scope of the project. The album is being promoted by the track "Styks / Flota Zjednoczonych Sił" featuring Sophie LaRo, which premiered on YouTube alongside the album release.
For vinyl enthusiasts, the wait will be slightly longer, but perhaps more rewarding. The vinyl edition, scheduled for release just before the upcoming tour, will be available in three distinct versions, each pressing featuring unique color combinations of red, blue, and yellow discs. This attention to physical format presentation demonstrates a deep understanding of how modern music consumers engage with physical media.
As the son of one of Poland's most respected musicians, Wojciech Waglewski has consistently pushed the boundaries of what Polish music can be. Through his work with Voo Voo and various other projects, he has demonstrated an uncanny ability to transcend genre boundaries, making him the perfect candidate for an MTV Unplugged session.
The album's release will be supported by an extensive concert tour beginning in March 2025, with performances scheduled across Poland's most prestigious venues. The tour dates include:
- March 15, 2025 – Poznań, Aula Nova
- March 16, 2025 – Szczecin, Filharmonia Szczecińska
- March 28, 2025 – Kraków, Nowohuckie Centrum Kultury
- April 5, 2025 – Katowice, NOSPR
- April 10, 2025 – Wrocław, NFM
- April 15, 2025 – Białystok, Opera i Filharmonia Podlaska
- April 28, 2025 – Warszawa, Teatr Muzyczny ROMA
- April 29, 2025 – Gdańsk, Filharmonia Bałtycka
In a unique marketing approach, signed copies of the album are available for purchase, each including a discount voucher for concert tickets at any venue on the tour. This integration of physical product and live experience shows a keen understanding of modern music industry dynamics.