Guatemalan music – World Music Central

The cover for Quiero features a collage-style scene in sepia and gray tones. A translucent woman sits beside a ghostly human figure. Above them, the title “QUIERO” appears in large gold lettering against a dark, star-filled background. Decorative elements—including a bee, cacti, a snake, and geometric designs—surround the position, while a textured strip resembling earth or woven fibers runs across the lower half.

Beyond Bolero

Blending the rhythm of bolero with jazz intricacy and the relaxed feel of Parisian café music, “Quiero” by sultry-voiced Guatemalan singer Amelia Rivera is a…

Music videos Single reviews

Amelia Rivera Revisits Beloved “Los Aretes de la Luna” Bolero

Tom Orr January 28, 2024 No Comments Amelia Rivera bolero Guatemalan music world music

Guatemalan vocalist Amelia Rivera does a jazzy cover of the much-loved Cuban bolero “Los Aretes de la Luna” that lacks nothing in authenticity or style.…

Album reviews

Mayan Cumbia Reggae

Angel Romero November 4, 2018 No Comments cumbia reggae Doctor Nativo Guatemalan music

Doctor Nativo – Guatemaya (Stonetree Music, 2018) Doctor Nativo is the artistic name of Guatemalan vocalist, songwriter and world traveler Juan Martinez. His music is…

Artist Profiles

Artist Profiles: Magda Angelica

Angel Romero June 29, 2018 No Comments Guatemala Guatemalan music Magda Angelica

Award-winning Magda Angélica was born in Guatemala and her childhood was formed by two Mayan women of the cackchiquel ethnic group. Since she was a…

Artist Profiles

Artist Profiles: Lenín Fernández

Angel Romero June 29, 2018 No Comments Guatemala Guatemalan music Lenín Fernández

Drummer, composer and producer Lenín Fernández joined the influential Guatemalan rock group Alux Nahual in 1986, making five recordings. In 2001 he approached potter Carlos…