It’s Throwback Thursday once again. This week we’re talking about the pop ballad group Los Angeles Negros, a Chilean band formed in San Carlos.
Los Angeles Negros were formed in 1968 by Cristian Blasser, Mario Gutierrez, and Sergio Rojas. The trio recruited local vocalist, Germain de la Fuente, to join the band. The band participated in a local band contest where most of the acts were inspired by The Beatles. De La Fuente hated The Beatles but loved boleros. His hatred caused the band to create a new, fusion style called balada rockmantia. This unique style proved to be highly successful, leading the band to massive success across Latin America. The lineup frequently changed with De La Fuente leaving the band in 1974.
Their style has been highly influential across Latin music. One of the bands they influenced was actually the topic of last week’s post, Los Bukis. Their songs have been sampled and covered by a wide range of artists including Jose Jose, Celia Cruz, and even Jay Z. Over the course of their career, they have released 26 albums. Although the lineup has changed multiple times over the years, the group is technically still active to this day.
This week’s song is “Y Volvere”, their greatest hit by far. Originally written as “Emporte-moi” by Alain Barriere, this was the titular song off of the band’s second album. The lyrics are simple but filled with a certain kind of hope and beauty. The singer tells his lover that he cannot stay right now. There are too many problems and too much pain involved in their love. Even though he doesn’t want to leave, he must. But, he promises he will return one day and reignite their love.
From 1969, “Y Volvere”.