Jim Čert, Czech Underground Icon, Dies at 69
František Horáček, known as Jim Čert, a prominent figure in the Czech underground music scene, has died at the age of 69. The news was shared on social media by historian Pavel Blažek and evangelic priest Ladislav Heryán.
A Career Defined by Music and Controversy
Čert was a singer, accordionist and songwriter who gained recognition in the 1980s for his unique style and performances. He blended rough songs with gentle ballads, often influenced by the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and poets like Bohuslav Reynek and Andrej Stankovič. He was a favorite of Václav Havel.
Collaboration with the StB
After the Velvet Revolution in 1989, Čert’s reputation was severely damaged by revelations that he had been a long-time agent for the Communist State Security (StB). He reportedly received payment for his services, providing information under the code names Akord and Homer. Seznam Zprávy reports that in the first year of his collaboration, he delivered 126 reports concerning “free-living youth” and received financial rewards, including clothing.
Impact on Dissidents
Čert’s reporting contributed to the persecution of dissidents, including information about Ivan Martin Jirous. His actions led to the imprisonment of Michal Hýbek, a university student who edited the samizdat magazine Vokno, for 18 months. Hýbek later died in 2003.
Later Life and Apology
Following the revelations, Čert spent time abroad, performing in countries like Germany, France, and the United States, where he formed the rock band Life After Life with Jaroslav Erno Šedivý. He later returned to the Czech Republic and released albums including Světlu Vstříc, Poutník z transporty, and Songs of Middle Earth.
In 2007, Čert publicly apologized for his actions, stating, “What happened cannot be undone. I can never undo what I’ve caused. Still, believe me, I try every day.”
Differing Opinions
Reactions to Čert’s past were mixed among those involved in the Czech dissent movement. Stanislav Penc acknowledged Čert’s energy and willingness to perform anti-communist songs in public spaces, while Filip Topol harshly criticized him, stating that there is no excuse for those who collaborated with the secret police for money.