Atahualpa Yupanqui

• Genre: Cantautor

About

Legendary Argentinean artist Atahualpa Yupanqui sings with an aged voice that radiates the rough charm of a cabaret veteran. Performing song styles that are hybrids of South American and Spanish elements such as joropo and milonga, Yupanqui arranges brooding melodies with simplistic charm. Known as a guitar virtuoso, he employs classical and Spanish guitar techniques in his interpretations of South American folkloric songs. But it is his own compositions that make him one of South America's most renowned songsmiths. Firmly ensconced in the nueva trova hall of fame, he sings and recites lyrics that are sublimely poetic and fervently political. Intellectually and aesthetically sophisticated, his music still retains the humble roots of the outcast and downtrodden.

- Robert Leaver