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Monika Brodka has come a long away from her beginnings in Poland’s Pop Idol. In 2003, the 14-year-old from Twardorzeczka captured the hearts of viewers during the show’s fourth season. The shy, small girl with a low, deep voice and thick highlander accent transformed into an enchanting songstress with a strong, crystal voice each time she took the stage. And although none of the show’s previous winners had succeeded in their careers, Brodka has since become a European sensation.

“Krzyzowka dnia” (Crossword of the day) is a fan-favourite, and in it she sings: “Rozmowa z Tobą jak brodzenie w śniegu,/ Niewydeptane ścieżki gubią mnie/ Tak łatwo utknąć w zaspie aż po szyję/ Na śliskich słowach wywracamy się/ Dobijam się/ Dobijam się/ I sprawdzam czy otwarte./ I krzyczę znów za dużo słów/ Za dużo słów na marne” (Talking to you is like wading through the snow/ Lost on un-beaten tracks/ It’s easy to get stuck up to neck in a snowdrift/ On slippery words we trip/ I bang on the door/ I bang on the door/ Checking if it’s open/ I scream again, too many words,/ Too many words in vain).

"The title provides an unexpected twist, as “granda” is a rather old-fashioned and out-of-date Polish word; however, the album is paradoxically ultra-modern, electronic, and fresh"

The song is included in Brodka’s last LP, “Granda,” slang for “mischief” – a word perfectly describing the new Brodka. The title provides an unexpected twist, as “granda” is a rather old-fashioned and out-of-date Polish word; however, the album is paradoxically ultra-modern, electronic, and fresh.

Such language games abound in this album. The re-invention of old words with new meanings and plethora of metaphors combine with Brodka’s musical complexity and intriguing combination of instruments to release a quirky, yet coherent, style. Using traditional Polish styles – taught to her during her upbringing — she interests both you and old audiences with her reinvention of folk music.

"Her real breakthrough happened in 2010, when her last LP came out, “Granda.” The title means “rumpus,” but is also a slang word for “mischief.” And that perfectly describes what the new Brodka is about"

In the past, Monika Brodka worked with prominent Polish songwriters Jacek Szymkiewicz from the Pogodno and Radek Lukasiewicz from Pustki. However, since taking the reins herself over all production responsibilities, her lyrics sound more natural and genuine to her style. She continues to sing songs in English, as she did in her debut LP album consisting over Lenny Kravitz and Kris Kristofferson covers. Yet her real strength lies in her Polish music, where her original style shines through.

It’s evident Brodka feels the attraction to continue creating, producing, and performing new music on a regular basis. Such activism in the music industry has led her to huge appearances at music festivals, such as The Great Escape tour in Brighton and Coke Live Music in Krakow. Her fans wait with anticipation for her next album release, which is expected to be coming soon. With her tenacity, drive, and originality, Brodka is one to watch out for!