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Karel Svoboda was a prolific and highly successful Czech composer renowned for his film scores, television themes, and hugely popular pop songs, particularly during the Communist era in Czechoslovakia.Born in Prague, Svoboda initially trained and worked as a dentist before switching to music. He rose to fame in the 1960s, composing catchy pop hits for Karel Gott ('Lady Carneval') and the Olympic band. His greatest legacy lies in his film and TV music, including iconic themes for the series 'Maya the Bee' (Včelka Mája), 'The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe' (Robinson Crusoe), and 'Lucie, postrach ulice' (Lucy, the Street Menace). He composed numerous scores for Czech fairy-tale films and Barrandov Studio productions. Svoboda received several awards, including the Český lev (Czech Lion) for Best Music. He tragically took his own life in 2007 after battling illness and depression.

• Svoboda died by suicide on January 28, 2007, at his home in Jevany. He was suffering from severe depression and chronic back pain, which reportedly became unbearable for him.
• He formed a legendary songwriting partnership with singer Karel Gott, composing massive hits like 'Lady Carneval', 'Být stále mlád' (To Stay Young Forever), and 'Kávu si osladím' (I'll Sweeten My Coffee), defining the sound of Czech pop for decades.
• His theme for the animated series 'Maya the Bee' (Včelka Mája) achieved global recognition. Later, a controversy arose when similarities were noted between his theme and the song 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight' used in Disney's 'The Lion King' stage musical. Disney settled out of court with the rights holders.