Karel Plihal, born in 1958 in Přerov, Czechoslovakia, is a guitarist, singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his contributions to folk and jazz music. He began playing guitar at the age of 15 and initially performed with various underground country-swing bands in Olomouc, including Hučka, Falešní hráči, and Plíharmonyje. Plihal's first solo album was released in 1983. Throughout his career, Plihal collaborated with notable musicians such as Emil Pospíšil (1985 to 1993) and Petr Freund (1995 to 1999). He has composed music for several productions at the Moravian Theatre in Olomouc, including Zlatovláska, Sluha dvou pánů, and Cyrano. Plihal's album releases include Vzduchoprazdniny (2012), Karel Plíhal v Olomouci (2005), and Nebe počká (2004). He has also directed recordings for artists such as Jarek Nohavica, Petr Fiala, Eben brothers, and Bokomara band. Plihal won four Porta folk music awards by 2006.
