Polish musician Hania Rani at the Concert Studio of Polish Radio in Warsaw, March 25, 2025. The Polish musician is a mainstay of streaming playlists with names like “Calm Vibes.” But she bristles at the notion that her music is therapeutic. (Anna Liminowicz/The New York Times)
When Polish musician Hania Rani released her first solo album, Esja, in 2019, she knew it was a modest debut. Its subtle piano compositions were moody but pared down, and she worried that its serene atmosphere might limit its mainstream appeal.
One year later, the album’s placid vibe turned out to be a blessing. As the world locked down against the Covid pandemic, distressed people were turning to streaming playlists with names like “Calm Vibes” and “Peaceful Rhythms” that featured Rani’s music.
