Walt Solek, born Walter Solek on September 28, 1910 in Poland, was a Polish-American lyricist and performer known for his contributions to polka music. His early career began with the Krakowska Orchestra, organized by his brother Henry, where he recorded on the RCA Victor label. In 1939, Solek formed his own polka band before serving in the United States Navy during World War II. Post-war, his song "Julida Polka" became one of his earliest hits on Columbia Records. Throughout the 1950s and beyond, Solek released notable songs such as "Who Stole The Keeshka?" and albums like Polish House Party [Spiew Polski Na Zabawe] and Hey Jude. He hosted the Polka Show on WMMW radio for 28 years starting in 1947. Solek was inducted into the International Polka Association Hall of Fame in 1974. He died on April 1, 2005.
