The Soulmen
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1967 |
| Defunct | 1968 |
| Headquarters | Czechoslovakia (Slovakia) |
Key people | Dežo Ursiny, Fedor Frešo, Vlado Mallý, Dušan Hájek |
| Products | Rock music recordings and performances |
The Soulmen were an English-language Slovak rock group active between 1967 and 1968. Together with the Beatmen, they played a significant role in the big beat movement within Slovakia. The band was a power trio led by singer and guitarist Dežo Ursiny, who later embarked on a solo career. The lineup also featured bassist Fedor Frešo and drummer Vlado Mallý, both of whom were founding members of Prúdy. Frešo additionally co-established Collegium Musicum and performed with Fermáta.
History
Following the dissolution and emigration of the Beatmen in 1966, frontman Dežo Ursiny assembled the Soulmen alongside bassist Fedor Frešo and drummer Dušan Hájek, who was soon replaced by Vlado Mallý. In December 1967, the band secured first place at the first-ever Czechoslovak Beat Festival held at Prague's Lucerna Palace. Throughout 1968, they conducted tours across Czechoslovakia and Hungary, releasing an EP in March that included the tracks "Sample of Happiness," "Wake Up," "I Wish I Were," and "Baby Do Not Cry."
In November 1968, Ursiny formed the New Soulmen with keyboardist Ján Lehotský, bassist Fedor Letňan, and drummer Peter Mráz. Although they recorded two songs, the group disbanded early in 1969 without issuing any official releases.
Band members
- Dežo Ursiny – vocals, guitar (d. 1995)
- Fedor Frešo – bass, vocals (d. 2018)
- Vlado Mallý – drums, vocals
- Dušan Hájek – drums, vocals