Gipsy.cz

Formation and Early Success

Gipsy.cz is a Czech Romani hip hop group formed in 2004 by rapper Radovan "Radek" Banga, who initially released a solo album before collaborating with violinist Vojta Lavička and brothers Jan and Petr Surmaj. The group gained significant attention in 2006 with their hit single "Romano Hip Hop" from the album of the same name, which not only topped the MTV World Chart Express but also earned a Gold certification in the Czech Republic. Their success was further recognized when they won the Discovery of the Year award at the Anděl Awards in the same year.

Notable Performances and Releases

In 2007, Gipsy.cz made history as the first Czech group to perform at the Glastonbury Festival and participated in the Czech preliminary round for the Eurovision Song Contest with the song "Muloland." Their music blends hip hop with traditional Romani influences, primarily sung in Romani, with some lyrics in Czech and English. The group continued to build their discography, releasing their second studio album, "Reprezent," in June 2008, which reached second place on the World Music Chart in Europe.

Continued Influence and Recognition

Gipsy.cz's music often addresses social issues, as seen in their controversial song "A na závěr si s námi dejte trochu té Čunárny," which critiqued a politician known for anti-Roma sentiments. The band has been recognized for their contributions to music, receiving multiple nominations and awards, including a win for Best New Artist at the 2006 Anděl Awards. As of 2013, they have released four studio albums, solidifying their place in the Czech music scene and beyond.