Szabolcs Szörényi, Key Figure in the History of Hungarian Rock Music, Passes Away
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Loading... - Jendayi Gad
- 05 Nov 2024
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Szabolcs Szörényi, a pivotal figure in the history of Hungarian rock music, has passed away at the age of 81, as confirmed by his family to MTI. Born on September 26, 1943, in Budapest, Szörényi's musical journey began in his youth when he was enrolled in the State Boys’ Educational Institute in Szob in 1956. There, he joined the mandolin orchestra, which laid the foundation for his future in music. Initially playing guitar, he eventually switched to the bass guitar, an instrument that would become his signature.
In January 1965, Szörényi joined the Illés Ensemble, a prominent Hungarian rock band, thanks to his brother Levente. The classic lineup of the band was formed that year, featuring Lajos Illés on keyboards, János Bródy on guitar, and Zoltán Pásztory on drums. The Illés Ensemble quickly rose to fame, particularly in the late 1960s and early 1970s, becoming one of Hungary's most popular bands alongside Omega and Metro. Their music, often rooted in folk traditions, resonated with the youth of the time, and their lyrics, penned by Bródy, captured the sentiments of a generation seeking to challenge the norms of their predecessors.
Szörényi's contributions to the band were significant, with many of their songs composed by him and his brother Levente. The Illés Ensemble achieved notable success at the Táncdalfesztivál, winning multiple awards, including the grand prize in 1968 for their song "Amikor én még kissrác voltam" ("When I was a little boy"). In 1974, Szörényi transitioned to the Fonográf, another influential music ensemble known for its sophisticated sound and polyphonic vocals. The Fonográf enjoyed a decade-long run, and Szörényi's farewell concerts in 1984 marked a significant moment in his career.
Beyond performing, Szörényi made his mark as a music director, contributing to various stage productions and recordings, including the original soundtrack for the rock opera "István, a király" ("Stephen the King"), which celebrated its 40th anniversary this year and sold two million copies. His artistic achievements were recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Kossuth Prize in 2000, which he shared with the members of the Illés Ensemble. This award is the highest state honor in Hungary for contributions to culture. He also received the Budapest Prize in 2012 and was named Honorary Citizen of the 13th district of Budapest in 2018. In 2019, he and his brother Levente were honored with the Höfner Guitar Prize for Lifetime Achievement at the Fourth National Beatles Meeting in Budapest.
Szabolcs Szörényi's legacy in Hungarian music is profound, and his passing marks the end of an era for many who grew up with his songs and the cultural movements he helped shape.
