Emilsen Pacheco

Emilsen Pacheco is a Colombian-born musician celebrated for his mastery of traditional Afro-Colombian rhythms, especially bullerengue and cumbia. Based in San Juan de Urabá, a small town on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Pacheco is recognized as one of the country’s leading bullerengue practitioners and teachers, with decades of experience performing and preserving this vibrant musical style. His music blends the hypnotic, call-and-response energy of bullerengue with the infectious rhythms of cumbia, creating a sound that’s both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly contemporary.

Pacheco’s career has taken him from local festivals to international stages, including a memorable North American debut at Lincoln Center. He’s known for his dynamic live performances, where he leads audiences in dance and celebration, often collaborating with other top artists in the genre. His recent releases, like “El Platanal” and “Bulla!”, showcase his ability to honor Colombia’s rich musical heritage while pushing its boundaries. Whether performing solo or with his group, Pacheco’s music is a joyful tribute to the resilience and creativity of Afro-Colombian culture.