Michael Kocáb (born 28 July 1954 in Prague) is a Czech composer, keyboardist and singer, best known as the founder of rock band Pražský výběr. The group shifted from jazz-rock to new wave in the early 1980s and was banned by the Communist regime between 1983 and 1986, yet went on to become one of the defining acts of Czech rock. After the Velvet Revolution Kocáb moved into politics, chairing the parliamentary commission that negotiated the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Czechoslovakia, and later serving as Minister for Human Rights and National Minorities (2009-2010).
Pražský výběr led by Kocáb performed a sold-out concert on April 4, 2025 at the House of Culture in Ústí nad Labem, which was attended by approximately 1,200 spectators.
A performance by Pražský výběr is scheduled for September 2025 at DKO Jihlava in its original lineup.
A concert by Pražský výběr is announced for September 4, 2025 in the Castle Park in Slavkov u Brna.
Czech Television broadcast a report on the court punishment of two StB officers who led the harassment of Pražský výběr members in the 1980s.
Michael Kocáb celebrated his seventieth birthday on July 28, 2024; the anniversary was preceded by a major retrospective concert at the Metronome Prague 2024 festival.
in progress
A documentary portrait of rock composer Michal Pavlíček in his seventies, returning to the stage after surgery while creating new music for theatre, television, and his solo album.
Legendary Czech rock band Pražský výběr returns with its original line-up. A concert featuring Michael Kocáb and his band in Brno.