Mata (real name — Michał Matczak) is a Polish rapper, singer, and songwriter, born on July 14, 2000 in Wrocław. One of the most recognizable artists on the Polish music scene of the 2020s, he gained fame for his unique blend of socially conscious lyrics, self-irony, and cultural references.
His music reflects the realities of modern Polish youth — their ambitions, doubts, and the struggle for freedom of expression.
Early Life
Michał Matczak grew up in an intellectual family. His father, Marcin Matczak, is a well-known legal scholar, lawyer, and public figure, while his mother is a university lecturer.
From childhood, Mata was interested in literature, wrote poetry, and took part in school plays.
He became passionate about music during his teenage years, drawing inspiration from both Polish and Western rap scenes. By high school, he was already recording his first tracks and sharing them online.
Breakthrough: “Patointeligencja”
The turning point in his career came with the release of his debut single “Patointeligencja” in 2019.
The song became a social phenomenon, sparking widespread debate in Polish media, schools, and universities.
In the track, Mata portrayed the “golden youth” — children from affluent families living in Warsaw’s elite districts, struggling with inner emptiness, addictions, and loneliness.
The music video gained millions of views within days, and Mata’s name became known nationwide. He was soon called “the voice of Generation Z” in Poland.
Discography
Albums
-
100 dni do matury (2020) — debut studio album that cemented his success after Patointeligencja and included hits like:
- Patointeligencja
- Schodki
- Biblioteka Trap
- Żółte flamastry i grube katechetki
The album achieved platinum status and was highly praised by critics.
-
Młody Matczak (2021) — a more mature, conceptual release.
Here, the artist reflects on growing up, fame, social pressure, and identity.
Hits include:- Papuga
- Kiss cam (podryw roku)
- La la la (oh)
- MC Kombajn
This album became one of the best-selling records in Polish rap history.
-
MATACHAT (2024) — an experimental third album with elements of pop and electronic music. Mata demonstrates his artistic evolution, exploring personal experiences, love, and the search for meaning.
Musical Style
Mata combines elements of hip-hop, trap, pop, and alternative rap, focusing on poetic and metaphorical lyrics.
His songs often include:
- references to classical literature,
- philosophical reflections,
- social commentary,
- self-irony and wordplay.
He masterfully balances street aesthetics with intellectual depth, creating a unique personal style that resonates with both younger and older audiences.
Popularity and Influence
Mata has become a symbol of the new Polish scene: independent, clever, and experimental.
His concerts attract tens of thousands of fans, and his releases consistently top the Spotify, YouTube, and OLIS charts.
He is also an ambassador for Spotify Polska and has received numerous awards, including Fryderyk Awards and Empik Bestseller.
Controversies and Public Stance
Mata isn’t afraid to be outspoken.
In 2022, he made headlines after being arrested for marijuana possession. He publicly advocated for the legalization of cannabis in Poland, releasing a message to the government.
His stance sparked widespread debate — some praised him as an activist, while others accused him of promoting drug use.
Nevertheless, Mata continues to use his platform to address important social issues — freedom, mental health, and self-identity.
Achievements
- Over 1.5 billion streams on Spotify.
- Fryderyk Award — Best Hip-Hop Album.
- Multiple platinum certifications for his albums.
- Sold-out concerts in Poland’s biggest arenas.
- Record-breaking music videos — Patointeligencja has over 80 million views.
Interesting Facts
- Mata graduated from Stefan Batory Lyceum in Warsaw — one of the country’s most prestigious schools.
- In interviews, he cited influences like Kanye West, Taco Hemingway, O.S.T.R., and Kendrick Lamar.
- He created his own clothing brand and frequently collaborates with young designers.
- In 2023, he launched a social initiative supporting youth art projects.
- He often performs at charity events and mental health forums.
- His album Młody Matczak is studied in university courses on contemporary Polish culture.
Legacy
Mata is more than just a rapper.
He is a cultural phenomenon — a poet, chronicler, and voice of a new generation.
His work serves as a mirror of 21st-century Polish youth, reflecting their struggles, dreams, and search for meaning in a changing world.
