Why should you experience the fusion of Mexican and Cuban music at the Hollywood Bowl?

The Hollywood Bowl is set to host an extraordinary evening of Latin music, featuring the renowned Afro-Cuban All Stars and the dynamic duo Rodrigo y Gabriela. This event promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers, showcasing the rich tapestry of Cuban and Mexican musical traditions.

The Afro-Cuban All Stars, recognized as a premier Cuban orchestra over the last few decades, will commence the evening by presenting a diverse array of their homeland’s musical genres. Founded in 1997 by Juan de Marcos, the band emerged from the legendary Buena Vista Social Club, a group of nearly 60 performers gathered to record the album A Toda Cuba le Gusta. This album launched them toward international recognition. Over the years, the Afro-Cuban All Stars have evolved, incorporating younger musicians who bring a contemporary touch to the orchestra’s representation of Cuban music.

Rodrigo y Gabriela, the headliners of the night, are known for their exceptional skill on acoustic guitar, showmanship, and passion. Born in Mexico City, the duo left for Dublin in 1999, where they played pubs and busked until a friendship with Damien Rice led them to their first recordings. Their music has been featured in popular TV shows, major motion pictures, and animated films. They recently dropped their sixth studio album, In Between Thoughts…A New World (2023), an introspective creation that integrates elements of jazz and orchestral sounds.

Why Rodrigo y Gabriela Are a Must-See Band

Rodrigo y Gabriela have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of flamenco fusion, heavy metal, and rock influences. Their performances are mesmerizing, with the dexterous fluidity of their hands on the guitar strings creating a tangle of vibrant tones that leave audiences spellbound. They have performed at prestigious venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Radio City Music Hall, and London’s Royal Albert Hall, consistently selling out shows.

During their eight years in Ireland, Rodrigo y Gabriela’s setlists were initially comprised mostly of covers. However, they began incorporating original material, and instrumental reimaginings of songs by bands like Led Zeppelin and Metallica have become staples of their shows. They also enjoy surprising fans with covers of songs by artists like Radiohead, Motörhead, Van Morrison, Muse, Billie Eilish, and The Weeknd.

Discover How The Afro-Cuban All Stars Masterfully Blend Cuban Sounds

Juan de Marcos’s mission for the Afro-Cuban All Stars was to maintain and pass down Cuba’s rich musical heritage. The vast size and diversity of the orchestra enable them to represent a variety of genres, ranging from bolero and salsa to timba and rumba, as well as chachachá, guajira, and danzón. This sophisticated array of Cuba’s musical traditions, executed by native artists, is unmatched outside Cuba.

The Afro-Cuban All Stars have put out two live albums, Absolutely Live I (2009) and Absolutely Live II (2017), which offer a compelling glimpse of the orchestra’s dynamic live performances. The band has also been the subject of several documentaries and films, including the Oscar-nominated Buena Vista Social Club by Wim Wenders and the Tony Knox documentary Salon of Dreams.

Rodrigo y Gabriela’s Triumphant Return to the Hollywood Bowl

Rodrigo y Gabriela’s return to the Hollywood Bowl is a significant event, marking their continued influence in the music world. Their previous performances at the Bowl, including collaborations with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Gustavo Dudamel, have been magical experiences. The duo’s ability to captivate audiences with their guitar-shredding ethos of thrash metal and the rippling runs of flamenco is unmatched.

During the pandemic, Rodrigo y Gabriela spent time in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, where they continued to create music and engage in activism. Gabriela Quintero, co-founder of the duo, spoke about their experience during the lockdown and their ongoing projects, including a new album and various community initiatives.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to visit Los Angeles, the Hollywood Bowl is a must-see destination. This iconic venue offers a unique blend of natural beauty and world-class performances. If you’re attending a concert, consider arriving early to explore the Hollywood Hills and the nearby Griffith Observatory, which offers stunning views of the city.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the diverse neighborhoods of Los Angeles, each offering its own unique cultural experiences. From the vibrant arts scene in Downtown LA to the historic charm of Olvera Street, there’s always something new to discover in this dynamic city.

In conclusion, the upcoming concert at the Hollywood Bowl featuring Rodrigo y Gabriela and the Afro-Cuban All Stars is a celebration of Latin music that should not be missed. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, this event promises to be a night of acoustically-driven beauty that will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the rich musical traditions of Mexico and Cuba.