BarcelonaOne of the advantages of announcing your “voluntary resignation”, as Joan Manuel Serrat did in 2022 at the end of his farewell tour, is that you always have time to change your mind and, even of your own volition, offer a concert like that yesterday at the Palau Sant Jordi, the very place of his farewell. The reason was worth it: to allocate the box office to those affected by DANA in Valencia, an objective that also thrilled Estopa and the trio formed by Andrea Motis, Judit Neddermann and Lucia Fumero, who brought together almost 15,000 spectators and grossed 775,000 euros, far from the million that the organization had indicated as a target.
The tremulous and expressive voice of the intonation of Noi del poble-sec Lullaby he opened the evening with the naturalness and absolute mastery that derive from a sixty-year career. In his first parliament – there weren’t many – Serrat recalled some lines from a song by Raimon: “In my country the rain doesn’t know how to fall. either it rains little, or it rains too much. When it rains little it’s drought, when it rains too much it’s a disaster “. And he added,with all intent: “Sometimes the rain doesn’t know how to fall,and neither do those who have skills,those who don’t listen to Raimon,nor the words of their grandparents nor the forecasts of the meteorologist”. anger took shape in one something personal poisonous, vomiting lines of anger and helplessness like “Seen and unseen / and they put it there doubled”.
The feeling of Morning song alternated with lyrical explosions like that of for freedom and the intimate customs ofmy wayplaying all the colors of an inexhaustible and lively repertoire that drags the audience into joy when songs like the machadiana arrive sing,Party I a Today could be a lovely day expansive and playful that received one of the standing ovations of the evening.The environmentalist lament Parè could not be missing, painfully current, and also immense Mediterraneansung from the first verse by a Sant Jordi slightly muffled by the defined and powerful sound of the concert. The collective karaoke of words of love it put the finishing touch on an impeccable and festive reunion. “It seems like just yesterday I left the field of this stage never to return… Never say never again” exclaimed the singer. It did not, in fact, seem to be Serrat’s last concert; hopefully it isn’t.
Joy and depth
The Mediterranean heat of I am from a villagea song by Judith Nedderman,very Serrat in all respects,it was the perfect transition to the segment of the trio formed for the occasion by Neddermann,Fumero and Motis,who governed roots music,jazz and song with joy and depth. The version of the valencians Obrint Pas in the land of the olive tree he closed an intense and short concert – thirty minutes played – which left him wanting more, even though perhaps it was neither the place nor the time to drag things out.
Estopa went to work and started the concert in torrential rain Your warmth, neighborhood epic a little overshadowed by a sound that sacrificed the band’s definition in exchange for decibels.piece by piecealways infallible,he made Sant Jordi jump and sing,and things didn’t falter much vacation In Tragicomedy. “We will play the most beautiful songs”, the youngest of the Muñoz brothers had promised in the presentation of the concert, and so it happened: they fell I don’t remember anymore, The gap in your skirt, I can’t breathe I The one in the middle of the Chichosthat David Muñoz dedicated to the rumba group, present yesterday in the audience.
“Today is not a day to complain about politicians, screw it! It’s a day to celebrate solidarity and that humanity is good,” said the singer, who thanked the barcelona City Council for covering all the expenses of the concert. Topics like brake pads, Paseo or Red wine they were falling until they were majestic Like shrimp put the colophon on a concert that still held a surprise: “Once we sang with him at the Teatre Grec, but the Grec is very small,” said Muñoz before inviting Serrat
on stage to sing together I leave on foot the 1967 song that Serrat and Estopa had already made together in 2014 and that the Muñoz brothers recently recorded alone for the album Marató. Despite some sound problems, it was the rounded conclusion of an evening without an aftertaste of farewell, but of brotherhood and solidarity which ended, clearly, with all the musicians embracing each other on stage.
What are the key themes in Joan Manuel Serrat’s music that resonate with today’s audience?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Music Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special feature on the resurgence of Joan Manuel Serrat. Today we’re diving into his recent concert at the palau Sant Jordi and the broader implications of his legacy. Joining us is music expert Dr. María López, a cultural historian who specializes in the impact of music on social movements.María, thank you for being here.
Dr. María López: Thank you for having me! It’s great to discuss such a notable figure in Spanish music.
Time.news Editor: Serrat’s return after announcing his voluntary resignation certainly took many by surprise. What does this say about an artist’s connection to their audience?
Dr. María López: It speaks volumes.Serrat is not just a performer; he’s an emotional compass for his listeners. By coming back to perform, especially for a cause like supporting those affected by DANA in Valencia, he reinforces his bond with the community. It’s a testament to the idea that music can inspire collective action.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of collective action, the concert attracted almost 15,000 attendees and grossed €775,000. What does this level of engagement reflect about Serrat’s relevance today?
Dr. María López: It highlights his timeless appeal. Despite being in the twilight of his career, he resonates with multiple generations. His ability to draw such a crowd, especially for a charitable cause, indicates that his songs still evoke strong emotions and memories among his audience. His music often reflects societal issues, and people are drawn to artists who speak to their experiences.
Time.news Editor: Serrat opened the concert with “Lullaby” and made poignant references to Raimon and the challenges of rain in his native land. How do you interpret his use of metaphor in this context?
Dr. María López: serrat’s lyrics are deeply poetic and frequently enough reflect the struggles of everyday life.The metaphor of rain not knowing how to fall serves as a commentary on political and social issues; it suggests a disconnect between nature and human experience. By mentioning Raimon, who embodies the fight against oppression, Serrat aligns himself with that legacy. It shows that some issues are cyclical, much like the weather, and artists are often the ones who highlight those struggles.
Time.news Editor: Serrat’s farewell tour left fans feeling a sense of closure yet, with this recent concert, there seems to be a hint of revival. What does this mean for artists who contemplate stepping back from the stage?
Dr. María López: It opens a broader discussion about retirement in the arts. an artist’s “retirement” is often not as clear-cut as it is in other professions. Many artists are drawn back by their desire to connect or support causes that matter to them. This flexibility allows them to navigate their careers on their terms, emphasizing that the relationship between artists and their fans remains dynamic.
Time.news Editor: what do you think is the lasting legacy of Joan Manuel Serrat as he continues to engage with audiences, even after announcing his farewell?
Dr. María López: Serrat’s legacy is multifaceted. He’s not just a singer; he’s a cultural icon who has chronicled societal changes through his music.By continuing to engage with the public, he reaffirms his role as both an artist and a humanitarian. His ability to mobilize people for causes reflects the power of music as a unifying force, ensuring that his influence will be felt long after he steps away from the spotlight.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, María, for your insights into Joan Manuel Serrat’s enduring impact and the significance of his recent actions. It’s clear that his music continues to resonate deeply, both in Spain and beyond.
Dr. María López: Thank you for the discussion! Serrat’s journey is a remarkable illustration of how art can transcend time, making lasting connections that inspire change.
