The Gipsy Kings are an iconic group that hails from the south of France, known for their catalytic role in bringing the sounds of progressive pop-oriented flamenco, also known as "rumba flamenca," to worldwide audiences. Formed during the 1970s, the group consists of two sets of brothers: the Reyes and the Baliardos, whose ancestry can be traced back to gypsy families that fled Catalonia during the Spanish Civil War. They sing in Spanish, utilizing a dialect from the Andalusian region, which has roots in Romani, the language of the gypsy people.
Their music, characterized by its energetic rhythm, passionate guitar work, and rich vocal harmonies, struck a chord with international listeners in the late 1980s with hits like "Bamboleo" and "Djobi Djoba." The group's eponymous album "Gipsy Kings," released in 1987, achieved immense success, and since then, they have continued to release albums and delight audiences with their cross-cultural melodies. "Savor Flamenco," their 2013 release, for instance, won the Grammy for Best World Music Album, solidifying their position as torchbearers of the flamenco tradition in contemporary world music. Over the decades, their enduring appeal and the ability to mix traditional flamenco styles with Western pop and Latin rhythms have made them a beloved staple in world music, with a discography that extends to albums like "Luna de Fuego," "Allegria," and "Pasajero," each weaving a narrative of their artistic journey. Their involvement with projects like the "Zorro" original London cast recording demonstrates their versatility and the broad influence of their music on various forms of entertainment.
Join them and feed your new music addiction, and add the artists you love!
Get Started