Antonio Carmona's Bold Musical Evolution
At the age of 60, Antonio Carmona, heir to one of the most significant flamenco dynasties in Spain, has astonished audiences with his daring and multicultural album, "Baro Drom" (Universal). This album not only encapsulates his current life phase but also highlights his rebellious character and unwavering determination. As echoed in the famous song by Ketama, which gained worldwide recognition, Carmona has always been clear about what he wants.
Born in Granada in 1965, Antonio Carmona emerged from the prestigious Habichuela family, renowned in the flamenco scene and initiated by his grandfather, known as "Habichuela el Viejo." This legacy continued through his father and uncles, who remarkably brought flamenco guitar from the caves of Sacromonte to the White House. During our conversation at Universal Music's store in Madrid, decorated with photographs of his family, Carmona shared insights into his life and the latest album. The visuals displayed not only a personal history but also the journey of his life, including moments with friends, his wedding to Mariola Orellana in Gibraltar, and snapshots of his daughters. The album's release coincided with a small exhibition featuring images from his personal collection, showcasing the rich tapestry of his past.
Musically, Carmona has always been a restless innovator, as evidenced by his groundbreaking work with Ketama, where he fused flamenco with pop music. Today, his new album continues this tradition, offering listeners a diverse range of sounds, from traditional Tangos Candongos performed with his uncle Pepe Habichuela to jazz influences in "El punto sobre la i," and even a rap collaboration with the French duo Bigflo & Oli in "La Paz." This eclectic mix is a reflection of his fearless approach to music, asserting that he has always viewed the creation of this album as an act of personal bravery. "The songs are vastly different, but they all share a common thread. It's about expressing myself; those who understand it will connect, and those who don't, that's okay too," he explains. Carmona's meticulous attention to production and musical details has resulted in an album he is immensely proud of, having dedicated countless hours to its creation.
The Significance of Collaboration in Today's Music Scene
One of the standout features of "Baro Drom" is the collaboration with Bigflo & Oli, a connection that emerged through social media and streaming platforms, which have made discovering global artists easier than ever. Carmona, a long-time admirer of French rap, recognized their popularity in France and sensed a cultural connection due to their Latin American heritage. This collaboration exemplifies the intriguing evolution of urban music, which has proliferated in recent years and increasingly blurs the lines between genres. While Carmona does not classify himself as an urban musician, he acknowledges the influence of contemporary sounds on his work, stating, "This album marks a departure from the past; it features programmed sounds and keyboards rather than traditional recordings with drums and bass."
In addition to his own artistic journey, Carmona is keenly aware of the broader landscape of Spanish music, particularly the global boom of Spanish-language music. He recently discussed the rising demand for Latino artists in markets like England, noting that Spanish musicians are currently enjoying a surge in popularity reminiscent of past American music trends. This newfound visibility in Europe represents a significant step forward for Latin culture, allowing them to share their rich heritage more widely. Furthermore, Carmona expresses concern over the state of flamenco in Spain, suggesting that it deserves greater recognition and a dedicated space to preserve and showcase its history. He envisions a living museum where the contributions of legendary flamenco figures are celebrated, emphasizing the need for contemporary audiences to appreciate this vital cultural heritage.
Reflecting on the future of flamenco, Carmona acknowledges both the challenges and the potential for renewal brought by new artists. He believes that preserving and promoting the legacy of flamenco is essential, but it requires a concerted effort to educate the public and foster pride in this unique cultural expression. As the music scene evolves, Carmona remains dedicated to his roots while embracing innovation, ensuring that his contributions to music continue to resonate across generations.
As reported by esquire.com.
