THIS week, I will be beginning my own summer abroad in Spain. I am planning to immerse myself in the culture by visiting small towns and villages as I walk along the Northern coast of the country. By the time I reach the end, I hope to have learned a new language.
Walking a long way is probably a very difficult way to learn Spanish. Indeed, we have already covered 9 better ways to learn a new language. And as suggested, I have been attempting to gain a little Spanish before I go by creating a playlist of Spanish songs. Here, you can listen to some of my favourites to pick up a few words yourself, or just get you in the mood for a fiesta.
Nudozurdo – Negativo
Nudozurdo are an indie band from the Spanish capital of Madrid. The band made their first album in 2002 after winning first place in a competition called Popzuelo 2002. 'Negativo' (Negative) is a pulsing guitar track that comes from their 2008 album, Sintetica (which roughly translates as ‘synthetic’ or ‘artificial’).
Enrique Iglesias – Bailando (feat Descemer Bueno and Gente de Zona)
In the late 90’s, Enrique Iglesias was the biggest selling Spanish artist in the world and is known as the King of Latin-pop. The singer-songwriter was born in Madrid and has lived in Miami. Although he is most known for his world-wide hit, ‘Hero’, I much prefer this Latin-dance collaboration from 1998.
Maria Toledo – Bromeo
Maria Toledo is a singer and pianist from Toledo in Spain. Her music ranges between flamenco, jazz and pop. 'Bromeo' has the classic Spanish guitar and castanets of flamenco music, with a catchy chorus.
Lola Flores – A tu Vera
One of the most famous Spanish artists in the world. Born in 1923, Lola Flores was an actress, dancer and singer from Andalusia. She appeared in 38 films and made over 10 music albums. ‘A tu Vera’ (By Your Side) comes from the 1962 film, El balcón de la Luna (The Balcony of the Moon).
Juan Magan – Baila Conmigo (feat. Luciana)
Currently one of the most popular musicians in Spain, Juan Magan is a house music DJ who was born in Barcelona. His singles are often found in the Spanish and Latino charts. This one featuring pop Latino singer, Luciana, has a mix of Spanish and English and is fun for those hot Spanish nights, with an equally fun video!
Andres Segovia – Suite Española op.47 no.5 Asturias
Andrew Segovia is the most famous classical guitarist from Spain and is considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time. This is probably one of the most recognisable tunes on this list.
Manolo Escobar – El Porompompero
Manolo Escobar is recognised around the world as a Spanish singer and actor, and his music is typical of Spain. With maracas, trumpets, guitar and wailing men, this tune makes me want to sit in the sun and drink sangria.
UHP – Asturias, Patria Querida
'Asturias, Patria Querida’ is the official anthem of the region of Asturias in the north of Spain. The song is sometimes performed with a type of Spanish bagpipe, but a lot of artists have made their own versions of this tune. This is a 1991 version from rock band UHP but it has a 70’s vibe.
Galician folk music
I hear you asking about the Spanish bagpipes. Yes, it’s not just Scotland that has them. Parts of northern Spain, especially Galicia in the northwest, are very Celtic and have their own version of bagpipes, called gaita. This is an example outside the cathedral in Santiago de Compestela.
Want more European playlists? Try Tom's pick of songs to make you dream of France.
Be sure to follow Francesca on her journey using #FranticTWalks
