Jiří Valenta, a respected keyboardist and long-time member of the famed Czech rock band Olympic, has passed away at the age of 66. The band announced his death via social media, expressing their sorrow over the loss of a significant musical figure who contributed immensely to their legacy during his time with them from 1986 until 2020. Valenta played hundreds of concerts both in Czechia and abroad, highlighting his impact on the music scene.

Having been part of Olympic for 34 years, Valenta's departure from the band in 2020 was due to health reasons, making this loss feel particularly poignant for his colleagues and fans. The band expressed their deep condolences to his family, friends, and fellow musicians, emphasizing Valenta's importance as both a performer and a person within the music community. His passing is a significant moment for many who admired his work over the decades.

Olympic, founded in 1962, is considered a cornerstone of the Czech music industry, and Valenta's contributions helped shape the sound of the band during its peak years. His legacy will live on through the music he helped create, and the heartfelt tributes from his peers serve as a testament to the respect he garnered throughout his illustrious career.