"I believe that success is not about skin colour, but about work, talent and attitude," says Romani singer Štefan Pecha, who breaks down stereotypes and brings authenticity to the scene
He has earned a firm place on the Czech music scene - not only thanks to his distinctive voice, but also thanks to his authentic expression, which immediately wins the attention of the audience. Štefan Pecha collaborates with personalities such as Yvetta Blanarovičová, Michal David or the Václav Hybš Orchestra, performs on large stages and on television programmes and is one of the most respected vocalists of our time. In an interview with LUI, he talks about his artistic roots, how he naturally brings Roma identity into his work, and why authenticity is more important to him than perfection.
Stefan, how would you like to introduce yourself to LUI readers? What is the most important thing for you in your artistic work and what topics are most appealing to you now?
I am first and foremost a singer and musician. But music for me has never been just about tones or notes. I see it as a space where voice, emotion and story meet. I enjoy looking for authenticity in expression - for singing to not just be flawless or polished, but to have the power to reach out and touch someone.
Do you remember the moment when you realized that music was no longer just a hobby, but your life's journey?
It was more of a process than a moment. Gradually I realized that music was a natural way for me to live. The pivotal moments came whenever my energy and the energy of the audience merged. It's the shared experiences that made me realize that this was my path.
Your Roma roots are a strong part of your work. When did you first feel that your identity would play a role in your music?
It happened naturally, it wasn't a calculation. I don't have to sing in Romani for my roots to be heard there. It's more about energy, temperament and a free way of self-expression that bring authenticity to every note. The audience responds to the honesty and spontaneity. For me, identity is an organic part of the work, its very essence.
Scenes from performances, musical moments or collages often appear on your social media. What meaning do these motifs have for you and how do they refer to Roma culture?
I share little snippets of my world - moments from the stage, interviews and backstage. The visual style comes naturally from who I am. Darker skin is often a label, but I think of it as part of me, not a label. I believe that success is not about skin color, but about work, talent and attitude - even towards yourself.
Which elements of the Romani tradition inspire you the most and which ones are more difficult to translate into contemporary artistic language?
Romani music often talks about everyday concerns and life, it is strongly connected to reality. Contemporary music, however, goes in a different direction, has different forms and demands. I follow young Romani artists and their work is beginning to be subject to the trends and expectations of the times. I am not saying that this is bad. The aim is to bring the listener to the artist and his legacy. Traditional stories don't play as strong a role as they used to.
When you create, are you more driven by an inner impulse or do you think from the beginning about how your work will be received by the audience?
Yes, I know something about the inner impulse. Actually, I'm a little bit of an impulse. I'm definitely not chained to a chair when I'm creating. I've never been very good at being predictable - and I don't think the audience would enjoy it either. The impulse starts the muse in me to be unconventional, and that's what appeals.
Has it ever happened to you that your work was perceived mainly through the "label" of a Romani artist and you had to explain more than create?
By being involved in non-Romani music, I never really got the label. Rather, it appeared with job offers and the initial mistrust that came with them. But it doesn't apply to everyone - I've met a lot of people along the way who have helped me and opened doors for me, and for that I'm really grateful. Plus, I don't take things too personally. I like to change the way I look at established views while pushing my own boundaries.
Do you ever face a dilemma between staying authentic and being accessible to a wider audience?
That dilemma is actually a constant dance between who you really are and what the people around you are able to accept and appreciate. My authenticity comes from inner conviction, from personal expression, from what I enjoy and find fulfilling. And that's what makes my nature accessible to listeners. It works.
What do you consider to be the moment in your work when your vision, experience and identity came together the most?
At every stage of my journey, I've felt, "Now this is it," and then I've created something else and felt the same. Today, I know that it is the search and transformation that gives my work its true value and power. I don't want to stereotype, I want colour.
Does your communication with the Roma community differ from that with the majority society? Do you adapt your style or form according to your audience?
The basis remains the same - I talk to people. Whether it's a community, a group or an audience. Of course, I perceive differences in backgrounds and experiences, so I adapt the form, but I never change the content. Both have their charm.
What would you like someone who doesn't know Romani culture to take away from your work?
To consider it "my" work would be presumptuous, because many Roma songs are passed down from generation to generation. Rather, I see myself as a performer who is trying to pass on the right idea and tradition, to respect its roots and at the same time bring it closer to today's audience.
What are you working on now? Are there any projects that have special meaning for you?
Playing with a live band has always been my passion. Right now I am working on the quality of our performances together with two absolutely phenomenal singers, Jana Haziova and Valeria Krpciarova. I enjoy being unbridled, taking people's breath away and changing conventions.
Do you see yourself just as an artist or also as a cultural actor who can contribute to greater visibility and dialogue?
Definitely as a cultural actor. I work on Yvette Blanarovič's La Sophia project, where we use music to open up dialogue and bring cultural values to socially disadvantaged children and children from orphanages.
What would you say to young Roma artists who are at the beginning of their journey?
Working on yourself, being open and having the courage to come out with what you are really passionate about is stronger than any fear of others' expectations. Our desires are the precursors to a successful goal.
