Mira Kubasińska – Career Development and Evolution of the Artistic Image in the Years 1963–1973

Abstract

Mira Kubasińska (1944-2005) was one of the most characteristic figures in female pop that appeared in the big beat era on the Polish scene. She was recognised because of her outstanding vocal abilities, natural gift for shaping lyrics, exceptional expression and an extraordinary sense of rhythm. Her artistic creation, completely devoid of stylisation, posing and mannerisms, fully reflected her temperament, philosophy of life and disregard for opportunistic attitudes. The peak of Kubasińska’s stage activity falls within the period of 1966-1973 and encompasses cooperation with bands led by her husband Tadeusz Nalepa - Blackout and Breakout. During that period, she released two solo albums (Mira and Ogień) and climbed to the top. Starting in the mid-1970s, the singer’s career suffered a serious blow, which was a result of Tadeusz Nalepa’s stylistic turn towards blues as well as the end of their marriage and a resulting personal crisis. This artist has not been the subject of scientific scrutiny as of yet, so this text aims to fill this gap. Apart from the biographical thread, the author attempts to analyse the singer’s oeuvre and describe the evolution of her artistic image. The text also presents a broader context of the circumstances on the Polish popular music scene in the 1960s and 1970s.