In the times of the Polish People’s Republic, many musical pearls were born, which still remain present in collective memory. One of such songs is “Where are those private” – A nostalgic song about the past era, which has been resounding at household and festivals since 1988. Although today it is difficult to imagine it in a different performance than Wojciech Gąssowski, it was originally planned completely differently.
A surprising decision of Wodecki
The originator of the music for this song was Ryszard Poznakowski, one of the most distinguished creators of the 1980s. Words were written by Marek Gaszyński – the legend of the radio three and the author of the lyrics to over 150 songs. At the time when the song was ready, the creators began to wonder who would best give his character. The choice fell on Zbigniew Wodeckiwith whom Poznakowski had already had the success of “Welcome To” Chałupy. “
Wodecki, however, refused. As he explained, he was “too young for it” and did not want to be pigeonhole as a performer of pastichas. Although the decision may seem unusual today, she was aware and consistent with his artistic image.
How did Wojciech Gąssowski go to the iconic song?
When Wodecki withdrew from the project, Poznakowski did not waste time. In his surroundings, Małgorzata Potocka – the owner of the Rewowy Tango Theater – together with Wojciech Gąssowski. The composer, when asked about his latest compositions, presented them with “where they went through those privateki”. Gąssowski did not need to wonder for a long time. “When do we record?” he said enthusiastically.
Thus, he became the voice of the generation that missed the times when the private parties had their charm and the music sounded out of vinyl. His charismatic performance has forever connected him with this song.
Why did this hit survived the test of time?
Although more than 35 years have passed since the premiere, “where those private parties have gone” does not get old. This is more than a song – it is a musical postcard from the PRL era, carrying emotions, memories and an authentic atmosphere of those times. In the text layer, Gaszyński focused on simplicity and at the same time emotionality, which allows everyone to find a part of themselves.
It is worth adding that – as he admitted after years – his texts often balanced “on the border of graphomania”. Despite this, it was this lightness and directness that the song gained the cult status.
Backstage of collaboration of Gaszyński and Poznakowski
Although both gentlemen have known each other for a long time, “where those private parties” were their first joint song. It was necessary to refine the length of the song, shorten some parties, all at a time when the recording technique did not offer many assembly opportunities. Despite the difficulties, something special was created.
Thanks to the radio popularity and catchy chorus, the song quickly entered the canon. And today – even if not everyone knows her story – they know her melody and words.