rhythm and mystery
Juan Luis Guerra returns to Barcelona in an unprecedented setting at Parc del Fòrum, an arrangement demanded by Cruïlla festival which will host him this Saturday with his band 4.40. The Dominican singer and songwriter uses this platform to reaffirm his tropical music repertoire, a response to the forced reflection of the pandemic years. Guerra describes those times as moments of deep meditation and reconsideration, reminding listeners that human beings are often more fragile than they imagine when they rely solely on personal strength. He emphasizes the enduring need for faith beyond material wealth.
Earlier, Guerra released the live album Between the Sea and the Palm Trees, a project born from an HBO Latino collaboration and performed at the Esmeralda beach in Miches, Dominican Republic, without an audience due to health concerns. In an email interview, Guerra explained that the performance felt like an event with spectators even in absence. The tracklist presents many of his greatest hits, where tropical warmth meets social commentary, including Visa for a Dream, a piece that reflects on immigrant life. He notes a continued interest in songs with social resonance, while acknowledging a shift in delivery toward tunes that lift spirits and invite celebration.
place for everything
The album Para ti, released in 2004, marks a shift toward a spirituality grounded in harmony with bachata, merengue, and salsa rhythms. The title track offers a devotional tone and expresses a belief that music can be a form of praise. Guerra reflects on the idea that such praise connects percussion, strings, and winds in a joyful proclamation, and he sees merengue as a sincere Dominican expression of praise to the Lord Jesus.
When asked how he blends the physical and the mystical in his current artistic vision, Guerra replies that a careful reading of Psalm 150 reveals praise as a grand celebration. He adds that true praise comes from the heart and that his musical language remains rooted in his Dominican identity.
Guerra stresses that faith, not people, holds enduring power. He observes that people can change, but spiritual convictions endure. His songs aim to offer hope and courage, while acknowledging that the creative process is personal and that each artist shapes their own message.
the evolving Latin sound
Juan Luis Guerra has long been a cornerstone for traditional Latin genres, yet he continues to explore new territory, acknowledging that reggaeton and Latin trap are part of the broader landscape. He rejects any notion of rivalry between styles and believes there is space for diverse expressions within Latin music. The goal, he says, is to pursue excellence in every genre while staying true to his artistic roots.
The broader Latin music scene on the Atlantic coast has seen collaborations and crossovers, with iconic figures from Spanish-speaking regions sharing stages and creative ideas. Guerra expresses admiration for fellow artists while recognizing that timing and opportunity dictate when such collaborations happen. He confirms that performing alongside other acclaimed artists would be a meaningful experience, a chance to learn and grow through shared stage presence.
On the Cruïlla stage, there is an expectation of a memorable encounter when Guerra shares the spotlight with other guests. The possibility of a joint performance remains unconfirmed, but the mere fact of being on the same stage can be a source of inspiration for both artists and audiences alike. Guerra underlines that the privilege lies in simply sharing the experience with fellow musicians and fans who appreciate live Latin music.