State of the Art: Rock al Parque, Sayco, Lucho's Party and More
🎸The Current Ups and Downs of Colombia’s Altenative scene
As Colombia’s music scene grows, so do the complex challenges facing artists today. From royalty battles and festival hiccups to the celebration of iconic venues and emerging talent, the last few weeks have been a whirlwind for music lovers and creators alike. The callout of Colombia’s royalty system and Bogotá’s festival lineup delays both serve as a reflection of the industry’s pressing issues—while grassroots events and intimate performances remind us of the thriving community spirit that drives Colombian music. In a time of change, these stories show both the energy and the struggle behind a culture that’s brimming with artistic talent.
The Cost of Creativity: Diamante Eléctrico, Sayco, and Colombia’s Royalties Problem
There's an uncomfortable truth that is starting to be spoken out about by artists. In recent days, acclaimed rock band Diamante Eléctrico called out Sayco, Colombia's Society of Authors and Composers, for withholding a large share of royalties, leaving them and countless songwriters unpaid. If the reported withholding is true, in a country that prides itself on its rich musical heritage, more than a minor scandal—this could be considered a betrayal of its own artists.
After the discussion was stirred on Instagram, Mario Galeano of Frente Cumbiero, a key figure in Colombian music, and brother of Diamante's frontman Juan, revealed something absurd yet telling: he receives way more royalty payments from the New Zealand composers society where he has his works registered, than he does from Sayco in Colombia. Imagine that—getting paid for your Colombian music on the other side of the globe while barely receiving anything at home.
Artists like Galeano and many others are caught in a frustrating cycle, while they have a large, dedicated fanbase and are doing their part with alternatives like merch sales, vinyl, sponsorships and others, their end-of-tour finances aren’t looking good, and they’re having to fully depend on these extra sources, which should be complimentary and not a lifeline. It is the royalty payments from societies like Sayco that should be the bread and butter for artists, yet instead, it seems that bands are left waiting indefinitely on their due. The resilient few will probably roll with the punches and push through, but unless conditions change, the underground scene risks a slow fade, with bands disappearing as they're forced to find more sustainable futures elsewhere.
Overall it’s a sad irony. Musicians are the beating heart of Latin American culture, yet their home societies aren’t protecting their rights. This isn’t just about missing paychecks, but about undercutting creative potential and stifling innovation. Artists can’t thrive when they have to fight for what should be rightfully theirs.
Rock al Parque and Its Significance
Bogotá’s Rock al Parque festival is gearing up for its twenty-eighth edition, showcasing a lineup that features both seasoned and emerging artists. Iconic Colombian bands like Kraken and Doctor Krápula will share the stage with international heavy metal acts such as Testament and Haggard, promising an unforgettable experience for fans of these artists.
The announcement of the lineup was met with some controversy. Festival-goers expressed frustration over the delay in revealing the lineup, with many eager to plan their attendance around the festival dates. Moreover, there was a notable incident at the Vallenato al Parque festival of a few months ago, where attendees were unaware of the event’s multiple dates, and thought it was only limited to one day. This miscommunication left some fans disappointed, as they missed out on celebrating the full festival experience. Reports, such as those from renown music vlog El Enemigo, highlighted these issues, shedding light on the challenges festival organizers face in spreading information in a timely and effective manner.
As the festival approaches, the anticipation builds, showcasing the resilience of the local music scene and its ability to unite diverse communities through the power of rock, metal, punk, and others. While it’s understandable that organizing such a massive public event involves intricate logistics, music fans demand clarity, especially given that this type of event represents a wholesome investment in leisure and recreation, in the midst of economic challenges many face today.
Lucho's: A Rising Spot in Galerías and Belalcázar
Last week, Lucho's house party showcased a vibrant mix of local musical talent, solidifying his place as a well kept secret spot in the Galerías and Belalcázar neighborhoods. With energetic performances from projects like Lucho himself featuring rising Bogotá based DJ-producer Motta, the atmosphere was alive with creativity and enthusiasm.
One standout moment was the flamenco duet that has become a common happening at this spot, where a talented female vocalist captivates the audience alongside an exceptional flamenco guitarist. Their performance highlights the rich sonic heritage of songs like “Djobi Djoba” by the Gypsy Kings, “El Carretero” by Guillermo Portabales, “Hit the Road Jack”, and a few more, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.
While some of the other projects were more rudimentary in their execution, they made up for it with sheer energy and passion. This blend of raw talent and established artistry created a unique house party ambiance, showcasing the potential of the local music scene. Lucho's party not only celebrated music but also reinforced the importance of community in supporting emerging artists.
Upcoming Events: Festival Sancocho Sonoro at Casa Quiebracanto
Prepare for a night that will cook up some serious Halloween vibes, and pay tribute to “Nuevas Músicas Colombianas” in the place where it all began—the legendary Casa Quiebracanto in downtown Bogotá, celebrating its 45th anniversary.
Expect a unique fusion of sounds and a live jam session with top local artists in a sancocho of sonic delights, bringing back the best vibes from the 2000s.
🗓 Date: Thursday, October 31st
📍 Venue: Casa Quiebracanto
🎟 Tickets: 20,000COP at the Entrance
Through financial disputes and the celebration of landmark events, Colombia’s music scene reveals its determination to grow while honoring its roots. As artists and organizers adapt to an evolving landscape, we look forward to even greater moments of unity and innovation that strengthen the country’s role as a cultural powerhouse. With each performance, festival, and new track, we see the unmistakable spirit of Latin American music come to life—now more determined than ever to break through.
Don’t forget to stay tuned for our upcoming coverage of Rock al Parque, as well as lists and interviews with some of the freshest voices and talents in the Colombian and Latin American scenes.
Until next time, keep the rhythm alive!
Marco Pisciotti
Music fan, Content creator
Bogotá, CO October 26th, 2024