At the age of 82, Michał Urbaniak, a Polish jazz musician, composer and arranger who was famous internationally thanks to his cooperation with legends like Miles Davis. The artist left on 20 December 2025, as reported by his wife, Dorota Urbaniak, in a moving entry on social media.
Michał Urbaniak was born on 22 January 1943 in Warsaw. His musical career began in the 1960s when he played violin and saxophone, combining jazz with elements of folk and rock. In the 1970s, he emigrated to the United States, where he achieved international success. He is best known from the album "Tutu" recorded with Miles Davis, which made him one of the few Polish musicians working with this jazz icon.
In recent years, Urbaniak has struggled with health problems, including after a cardiology procedure, from which he has long recovered. Despite this, he remained artistically active, promoting Polish culture in the world.
Urbaniak's death has caused numerous reactions in the world of music and media. Journalists mention him as a master who changed the face of jazz. The artist's daughter, Mika Urbaniak, said goodbye to her father in moving words on social media. His achievements include dozens of albums and compositions that will forever be recorded in the history of Polish and world music.
Michał Urbaniak was not only a talented instrumentalist but also an ambassador of Polish culture. His departure is a great loss to the jazz community.
