Michael `Joka’ Marten has died. Marten. O.S.T.R. says goodbye to the leader of Kalibr 44

Kaliber 44 in mourning: the death of Michal `Joka`. Marten

Michal “Joka” Marten died on 4 May 2025, a few days before his 48th birthday. The Polish hip-hop community is in mourning after the death of the co-founder of the legendary band Kaliber 44. The information about his passing was provided by his brother and co-founder of the band, Marcin “Abradab” Marten.

It is with the greatest pain that I inform you of Michał’s death. He is no longer with us, but I believe he will always remain in our hearts,” Abradab wrote on social media.

The cause of Joka’s death has not been made public. The family is asking for respect for mourning and privacy during this difficult time.

Who was Michal “Joka” Marten?

Michal Marten, known as Joka, was born on 12 May 1977. Along with his brother Marcin ‗Abradab’ Marten and Piotr “Magik” Łuszcz, he founded the band Kaliber 44 in 1993, which became a pioneer of Polish hip-hop. Their debut album “Księga Tajemnicza. Prologue” in 1996 is considered a milestone in the history of the genre.

After the success of his subsequent albums, Joka emigrated to the United States in the early 2000s, where he worked in various professions. Upon his return to Poland, he continued his artistic activities, collaborating with many artists and taking part in the reactivation of Kalibr 44 in 2013. The band’s last album, Ułamek tarcia, was released in 2016 and achieved platinum status.

The music community says goodbye to a legend

Joka’s death has touched many artists associated with the Polish hip-hop scene. Adam “O.S.T.R.” Ostrowski posted a black and white photo of the late rapper on Instagram with the caption:

Brother, you were and forever will be a legend. Forever in my heart and memory. Rest in peace, Master!

Other artists such as Grubson, Peja and Elephant have also expressed their condolences and memories of their late colleague. Fans on social media are sharing their memories and expressions of sympathy, highlighting the impact Joka had on their lives and the development of Polish hip-hop.

Joka’s legacy: the impact on Polish hip-hop

Michał “Joka” Marten was not only a talented rapper, but also an inspiration for many young artists. His distinctive style and lyrics touching on important social issues helped shape the Polish hip-hop scene. His contribution to the genre will remain invaluable and his memory will live on in the hearts of fans and musicians.

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