Rapper Rafał Artur Poniedzielski (Pono), a Warsaw hip‑hop pioneer, died 6 November 2025 at age 49.
Announcements of Death
Members of ZIP Skład first announced Pono’s death, followed by a farewell from rapper Wojciech “Sokół” Sosnowski. He died on 6 November 2025 at age 49.
Early Life and Career
Rafał Artur Poniedzielski was born on 16 October 1976 in Warsaw. He first emerged in the mid‑1990s, initially with the duo TPWC alongside Sokół (from 1996). He later co‑founded the Warsaw collective ZIP Skład (1997) and the group Zipera (1999), and also performed solo.
Discography
Pono released four solo albums: “Hołd” (2002), “Tak to widzę” (2006), “Wizjoner” (2012) and “Bunt” (2015). With Zipera he issued “O.N.F.R.” (2000), “Druga strona medalu” (2004) and “Meritum” (2018). Together with Sokół he produced two major releases under “Sokół feat. Pono/TPWC”: “Teraz pieniądz w cenie” (2007) and “Ty przecież wiesz co” (2008).
Key Collaborations
Tracks recorded with Sokół brought the duo widespread recognition, including “W aucie”, “Uderz w puchara” and “Miód i cukier”. These songs were broadcast nationally and remain associated with TPWC’s early popularity.
Social Engagement
Beyond music, Pono contributed socially. In 2006 he and windsurfer Zofia Noceti‑Klepacka founded the “Hey Przygodo” Foundation to support children and youth through sport and culture.
Tribute and Final Invitation
Sokół urged those who truly mourn Pono to attend his funeral and pay tribute, emphasizing a gathering of sincere individuals over a public spectacle. He thanked everyone.
