Petr Novák: The romantic voice of the Prague Spring
Petr Novák's unmistakeable, delicate tenor voice is synonymous with Czechoslovak society of the late 1960s. This talented musician shot to fame in this country at the time of the Prague Spring, when his gentle love songs influenced by Western pop groups like The Beatles were hugely popular among young Czechs.
Born in Prague in 1945, he grew up in a family deeply affected by the communist takeover of Czechoslovakia. His difficult childhood and strong opposition to the communist regime would remain an important part of his character throughout his life.
Novák was drawn to music from an early age and began playing the piano when he was six. He never received formal musical training, however, and his education was cut short when he was expelled from grammar school shortly before graduation. Music eventually became his profession, even though he followed a very different path from traditionally trained musicians.
He formed his first band with friends in the early 1960s, and the group soon attracted attention after several of their recordings were played on the radio. One of Novák’s early songs, Já budu chodit po špičkách, quickly became a major hit and established him as a prominent figure in the emerging Czech beat and pop scene.
During the following years, Novák performed with several bands, including Flamengo, before returning to his own group, George & Beatovens.
Most of the songs for both groups were written by Novák with his childhood friend and lyricist Ivo Plicka. They primarily specialised in wistful, Western-sounding love songs, which struck a chord with young Czechs and Slovaks enthused by the relaxed political and social atmosphere of the Prague Spring.
After George & Beatovens was dissolved in the 1970s, Novák continued performing as a solo artist. He appeared at clubs, theaters and concerts across Czechoslovakia and also took part in ambitious musical projects.
His career was not without serious setbacks. A major car accident in the 1970s left him badly injured, but he returned to performing. He continued to work throughout the following decades, appearing on television and on stage and recording new material. In the 1980s, he also created several thematic albums that reflected his personal experiences and interests.
Behind his musical achievements, Novák struggled with serious health problems for much of his adult life. He ate very little, smoked heavily and drank alcohol, and was repeatedly hospitalized. His health was further weakened by injuries and circulation problems, yet he continued performing even when doing so became increasingly difficult.
Petr Novák died in his sleep in August 1997 at the age of 51. His career was marked by remarkable creativity, personal struggles and an unmistakable musical identity. Decades after his death, his songs remain part of the Czech musical landscape and continue to be remembered by generations of listeners.
