Victor Jara

Víctor Jara was a pivotal Chilean singer-songwriter, theater director, poet, and political activist who became an iconic figure in the folk music of Latin America. Born on September 28, 1932, in the rural community of Lonquén, near Santiago, Jara's music was deeply influenced by the cultural heritage of his country and his commitment to social justice.

Jara's work was marked by its poignant commentary on social and political issues, blending the traditional folk music of his homeland with contemporary concerns. His songs such as "El Derecho de Vivir en Paz" and "Manifiesto" became anthems for peaceful resistance and are still sung by those advocating for human rights. Throughout the 1960s and early 1970s, Jara was active in the Nueva Canción Chilena (New Chilean Song) movement, which fused indigenous musical traditions with political activism to address the struggles of the working class and oppressed.

Tragically, his life and career were cut short after the military coup in Chile led by General Augusto Pinochet on September 11, 1973. Víctor Jara was arrested, tortured, and murdered by the regime, but his music and the message continued to resonate and inspire resistance movements in Latin America and across the world. His posthumous releases, including "Víctor Jara Sinfónico" and live performances such as "En México (En Vivo)," have continued to enrich his legacy and introduce new generations to his humanitarian ethos and artistic mastery.

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  1. December 1, 2016
  2. December 1
  3. December 1, 2008
  4. January 1, 1974
  5. December 1, 1973
  6. December 1, 1972
  7. December 1, 1971
  8. February 2
  9. December 1, 1969
  10. January 16, 1968