In the recent years, the circle around Luis Bárcenas and his son Willy has shifted from dinner table conversations in upscale spots to headlines tied to a Catalan resort. The elder Bárcenas, once known for his influence at the higher echelons of politics, spent time away from the spotlight, while Willy emerged in the music scene as the frontman of a popular group that comes alive during the summer season. The contrast between the two paths — a troubled political legacy and a rising entertainment career — paints a portrait of two generations moving in different directions.
Barcelona in Palafrugell
Earlier this week, the band Taburete, led by Willy Bárcenas, took the stage in Calella de Palafrugell for the fourth consecutive year. The show drew a large audience, mainly from Barcelona, with families and young fans singing along to every track as if the moment itself depended on it. The energy suggested a contest to prove who could recall the lyrics first. Juli Guiu, the president of Clipper’s festival, was in attendance along with CEO Vanessa Llopart, and there was speculation about how organizers might adjust seating at Cap Roig for future performances. The crowd rose to its feet as the last notes faded, a confident crowd that stayed until the final chord.
Guiu, who has been photographed on crutches due to an ankle injury, also serves as a public figure for Barcelona’s ecosystem. His connections to the broader media and sponsorship conversations add a layer of industry intrigue, especially given the ongoing links to major platforms. The sponsorships tied to the festival have become a focal point in discussions about the year’s revenue streams for the organizers, highlighting how music events continue to attract substantial support without the need for refunds.
During the concert a speech was prepared but a misstep occurred as the host paused to switch languages. The moment highlighted a lighthearted, relatable side of the event. The crowd grew loud as songs from the repertoire were shared, with fans dancing and sipping beverages as the tempo built up. The performer steered the energy with a deft touch, responding to front-row requests and managing the pace with a sense of showmanship that kept the room warm. The atmosphere in the middle of summer amplified the sense of celebration, even as the heat pressed in from the open air. The concert ran for nearly two hours, leaving many participants exhausted yet exhilarated, the kind of experience that sticks in memory long after the last note.
More musicians from ‘cayetanos’
The show’s runner-up carried a similar ‘cayetano’ vibe, steering away from the city’s elite circles toward a more grounded musical expression. The scene also touched on the broader network around rising artists, including talks about past connections and the challenges of balancing fame with personal history. It was noted that a relative of a well-known business figure faced health concerns shortly before a recent performance, yet managed to take the stage and contribute to the evening’s energy.
In retrospect, the night came across as a complete success. The organizing circle celebrated a string of sold-out appearances across several key festivals this year, signaling strong demand and a growing audience base. Cap Roig, Cambrils, and the upcoming Summerfest in Cerdanya were cited as part of a trajectory that points to a robust festival calendar ahead.
The closing moments carried a sense of regional pride with songs that echoed propped-up chants and a call-and-response spirit that resonated with the crowd. The night finished on a high note, with the audience embracing the vibe of summer and the shared experience of music and celebration. The energy lingered as the band wrapped up, leaving fans ready for whatever comes next as the season rolls onward.