Anthony Orozco, born in Barcelona in 1972, returns with two big stories. A new dining venture in Alcúdia, featuring five rice dishes crafted with the help of his sister-in-law Elisabet Prat, and the start of a Latin American tour that comes hot on the heels of vocal cord surgery. In an interview with DIARIO de Mallorca, a publication from the Prensa Ibérica group, the singer opens up about hitting rock bottom, shares his plans for the years ahead, and reflects on his son Jan, who is also carving out a path in music. He also hints at what his next Mallorca concert might feel like and recounts how Barça’s league triumphs have shaped his life as a devoted culé and lifelong supporter.
I saw him on TV recently during Cover Night, a moment he found incredibly thrilling. Has he fully recovered from the vocal cord surgery?
You could say he’s back at full strength, ready to tour Latin America, though the road to recovery was tough. The wait for the test results stretched twenty days, and that period was brutal. Doctors offered counsel, and just 21 days after the operation he began singing lessons with his current teacher, José Sepúlveda. At fifty, he discovered a new ability to learn and improve. He notes that their schedule includes many performances each year, and although he has trained hard, he recognizes the importance of preserving the vocal apparatus. This year he has already taken more than 70 singing lessons, maintains a daily training routine, and feels stronger than ever. The upcoming tour promises to be the pinnacle of his career.
Does he feel he is reinventing his instrument and his sound?
Absolutely. He admits that he is learning anew and acknowledging gaps in his knowledge about his own voice. His focus now is on continual learning, building resilience, and avoiding another injury. He urges fellow vocalists who rely on their cords daily to attend regular checkups to prevent polyp formation.
Has he ever imagined a future where he might never sing again?
The doctors warned him of a wound that could have taken a darker turn, yet time has shown it was not as dire as feared. Singing on television after the surgery felt pivotal, a test of confidence after a major change. Today, he feels ready to bring his music to Latin America with renewed conviction.
Are the causes of the injury understood?
He explains that singing involves a range of techniques that help protect the voice. He learned these lessons in informal settings and now applies them with discipline to avoid fatigue and fatigue-related hazards. He remains optimistic, confident, and grateful for the chance to grow through this experience. What happened became a turning point that reshaped his approach to life and music.
Can life on stage be replaced by life off stage?
He had imagined a freer path, but reality offered a deep sense of commitment. He feels he will always be involved in performance and cannot imagine a life away from singing—there is no escape from the stage he loves.
What sparked the move into a new gastronomic venture, the five rice dishes at Arroces?
Years ago, when a restaurant opened across from their location, that project presented a serious challenge. Elisabet Prat then stepped in to lead, and under her direction the business grew rapidly. The rice concept she brought to life feels almost like a personal declaration and is poised to become a standout work of the year.
What are these five rice varieties?
They include a rice with Iberian secret, five legs and buns; a tuna belly rice; scalloped octopus; red shrimp; and another lobster rice. Trying all five is a must, it’s akin to watching a five-episode TV series in one sitting. The local rice scene is intense and highly competitive, something both chefs and diners savor.
What other dishes does the menu hide?
The plan features numerous starters inspired by cascareo, razor clams, and Galicia-sourced mussels. Expect exceptional croquettes, a Mallorcan coca topped with goose, caramelized onions, and figs, as well as varied salads, meats, and fish. Three pastries will round out the menu. The core strength, however, remains the rice.
Are good songs born slowly, like great food?
Yes. A song can emerge quickly, but most great works come from hard labor—tempo, progression, tonal choices, harmonies, and a deliberate attempt to give the piece character before it is born. Like painting, it requires skill and effort. Some songs take shape early, others never fully come to life.
Does a lasting bond with the sea influence his composing?
Indeed. He tries to sail whenever he visits Alcúdia, preferring modest boats to megayachts, and he spends as much time as possible with his family, especially his son. The absence of phone service a mile from shore forces him to be present with his child. He views this as a strategy and calls the harbor his home. Alcúdia has played a pivotal role in his life, and he hopes to return with a musical venture like five pilafs performed by a live group.
It’s noted that his son Jan began DJing six years ago while at the 5 Océanos, and now studies at a school in Sitges where music is central to everything. The father hopes music will continue to be the air for him.
Summer brings a festive mood. When Kutxi Romero of Marea described VIP areas as “ugly, pure classicism,” does he share the sentiment?
He appreciates VIPs when offered because the service is thoughtful, and he respects Marea as an artist. He would not refuse a VIP invitation if it came along. People in the business pursue their own paths, and that’s fine with him.
What Antonio Orozco will be like at his next Mallorca performance this summer?
He brings tremendous energy and a potent voice—more than ever before. If someone hasn’t seen him live, now is the time.
About his voice, the rice dishes, and Barça’s victory—will there be a Laporta tattoo?
He says no. His bond with Barça runs deep, and his manager sits in the club’s vice presidency of marketing, strengthening ties with the president. He has followed Barça for years and remains a lifelong fan. He is happy with Xavi’s project, hopes injuries will ease next season, and looks forward to a strong Champions League campaign. He also wishes Pep Guardiola well in his next match. He admires both coaches greatly.
Is Messi still part of his dream?
He believes a return for Messi is possible and even likely. The emotional bond is strong, and while money matters, the hope endures that Messi will come back.
How does he view Eurovision?
He honors artists defending a country and applauds their bravery. The festival can be affected by politics, but the essence is a sense of brotherhood, closeness, and competition.
Politics aside, what does it mean for the cultural sphere?
He believes there is more consistency now. Art often faces neglect, and artists deserve greater support and compassionate treatment from institutions.
Antonio Orozco poses at the entrance of the five arroces restaurant. GABI RHODES