Chico & The Gypsies - The Interview

The Gypsy Kings introduced the world to Flamenco music with their very own brand of Rumba Flamenco fused with elements of Pop music, did the band achieve everything you wanted it to?

One never achieves everything - every day is a new chance and a new challenge.

You have played in arenas around the world to enthralled audiences, any particular concert that brings back pleasant memories, or any preferred venues?

Believe me, with over 2000 concerts there are an incredible amount of stories that could easily fill a book - but especially the trips to India; to Rajasthan, Mumbai or Goa  will be remembered for the rest of my  life

After selling over 20 million albums under the band you founded - The Gypsy Kings -why did you decide to leave the band?

It was irresolvable problems with our producer and record company at the time.

The departure from the band allowed me to develop a new artistical direction, the success of which has been mirrored in four new albums that partly have reached gold status.

Also including new young musicians in the band gave me a new impulse.

You have played in India in the past, how do you like playing in India? Do Indian audiences react and understand your music differently than audiences in other part so the world?

Firstly I would like to say that the hospitality and friendliness of the people in India amaze me every time. I think that our music enters the hearts of people all over the world, regardless of their culture.

Because our own roots are incorporated in this country, I find it a very special combination of both of our countries souls.

As an individual and a band member you have done a lot to clear the road ahead for freedom. Do you think Music can become the language of communication for peace talks around the world?

Yes that is true. Music knows no boundaries, neither geographical nor cultural - and especially not in the heads of the listener. Music goes straight to the heart and can do a lot to advance communication between people. This is one of the reasons that UNESCO has appointed me an Ambassador for Peace and tolerance.

Would you like to collaborate with any Indian musician?

That would be wonderful - as I said our roots and souls are connected so that would be fantastic if we could work together on a project with an  Indian musician.

What is left for you to conquer as an artist?

That more and more people will listen to my music, and hopefully through my  music, the world will be a little more peaceful and  beautiful.

Any final words for you fans out there?

I am really looking forward to the concert in India, and promise you that we will all celebrate a wonderful Fiesta together.