Polish music legend Alicja Majewska has recently sparked a national conversation about the evolution of the singer-songwriter model in the industry. According to reporting from Plejada, the veteran artist argues that the modern trend of performers writing their own material often sacrifices lyrical and melodic depth, contrasting the current state of songwriting with the hit-making era of the past.
Why is the “do-it-yourself” songwriting trend being questioned?
Alicja Majewska suggests that while it is impressive for an artist to write their own songs, it remains a rare skill set. Speaking to Plejada, she emphasized that true artistry requires a talent for creating melodic, non-banal music paired with lyrics informed by quality literature. Majewska notes that the current industry preference for self-authored tracks—where performers handle every aspect of the creative process—may not always yield the most memorable results.
How do modern festival premieres compare to historical standards?
The debate over song quality often centers on the Opole Festival’s “Premiery” (Premieres) competition. According to Majewska, she recalls a conversation with Michał Bajor regarding the difference between past festivals and today’s iteration. Bajor noted that historical festivals produced lasting hits sung by the entire nation, whereas contemporary competitions often struggle to generate the same cultural footprint.
However, this perspective faces pushback from the success of recent participants. The 2026 “Premiery” competition featured notable performances, including the track “Nieidealna” by Darya and Sebastian Fabijański, and “Halo Houston” by Jasiek Piwowarczyk, the winner of the 16th edition of The Voice of Poland. The competition was ultimately won by Sargis with the song “Ziemia,” which has seen positive reception from audiences, challenging the notion that modern music fails to resonate.
The shift in Polish music production
The tension between traditional songwriting and the modern “era of the individual” highlights a broader shift in how Polish artists approach their careers. While veterans like Majewska advocate for a reliance on established songwriting expertise to ensure melodic quality, younger artists are increasingly leaning into personal, self-penned narratives. This transition is evident in the diverse range of artists participating in national music events, where the public response often dictates the long-term success of these new releases.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main critique of modern songwriting according to Alicja Majewska?
Majewska argues that the trend of artists writing their own songs often lacks the literary and melodic depth required to create national hits. - Who won the “Premiery” competition at the most recent Opole festival?
Sargis won the competition with the song “Ziemia.” - Does the public agree that modern songs aren’t memorable?
Not necessarily; while some industry figures express concern, recent entries like “Nieidealna” and “Halo Houston” have generated significant audience interest and positive feedback.
What are your thoughts on the future of Polish songwriting? Should artists focus more on their own lyrics or collaborate with professional composers? Join the discussion in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more industry insights.
