In the very heart of Katowice, on Staromiejska Street, something happened that will remain in the memory of the city and everyone who loves Silesian blues for a long time. Leszek Winder — guitarist, composer, producer, co-creator of the legendary Krzak, and one of the most important figures of the Silesian sound — unveiled his star in the Walk of Fame. It was a moment full of emotion, pride, and music that for five decades has carried Silesia throughout all of Poland.
It was a symbolic gesture, but one of enormous importance. It was an expression of gratitude to an artist who helped shape the musical identity of Katowice — a UNESCO City of Music. Leszek Winder has recorded more than 70 albums and collaborated with the greatest names: Skibiński, Riedel, the Skrzek brothers, Andrzej Nowak, Elżbieta Mielczarek, and Michał Giercuszkiewicz. His playing style defined Silesian blues. His music is character. His sound is Silesia. His story is part of the history of Katowice. The unveiling of the star was not only an honor for the artist — it was also a celebration of a city that truly feels the blues. The partner of the event was the City of Katowice, supporting initiatives that remain for years.
Right after the ceremony, the time came for another important moment — the premiere of the expanded edition of Leszek Winder’s book “Śląski Blues”, published by GAD Records. It is a publication full of memories, photographs, and stories that built the Silesian sound over the decades. And inside there was also a chapter about KATO Blues FACES. A short one — because we are still young ourselves. But for us, it is a great honor and deeply moving. Our small story written into the great history of Silesian blues. It is a moment that shows this story is only just beginning.
In the evening, the KATO Blues FACES stage belonged to Śląska Grupa Bluesowa. They played the way only they can — most beautifully and most truthfully. Their music was a tribute: to Leszek, to tradition, to everyone who loves blues. It was a concert that not only closed the day dedicated to Leszek Winder — it completed it. It told the story through emotion, sound, and experience. It was like a signature beneath the whole event.
It was a day when history, music, and the people who create it came together. A day that showed how beautiful and rich the tradition of Silesian blues is. A day written into the space of the city — and into our memory. We are proud. Because this project is our idea, our work, and our love for blues and Katowice. And the City of Katowice — a partner that truly feels the blues — is part of this story. It was a beautiful moment. And we want you to see it.
