The Gipsy Kings, featuring founder Tonino Baliardo, have unveiled their new single 'Historia,' the title track from their forthcoming album. The track captures the band's signature flamenco and Catalan gipsy influences, blending various global sounds. The album is set for release on May 15 via Cooking Vinyl.
The Gipsy Kings began in 1979, performing on the streets, at weddings, and in bars in Arles, France. Over the years, the band has achieved 25 million album sales, a GRAMMY Award, and sellout tours worldwide, including a notable performance at Glastonbury in 2024.
'Historia' embodies the band's joyful rhythms and fervent atmosphere, reminiscent of hits like 'Bamboléo' and 'Djobi, Djoba.' It features impassioned vocals, jazzy piano elements, and Tonino Baliardo's distinctive guitar playing. The song draws from a mix of genres including rhumba, pop, dance jazz, and the core passion of Gipsy Kings music.
Tonino Baliardo explained his vision: "I have always wanted to record an album where the music that has influenced my life as a Gipsy is reflected. My music has no borders, and our music is universal. I came up with the title ‘Historia’ because it means what has happened in the past, and I wanted to create an album with all the different musical influences I have experienced over the years, travelling and performing around the world. The tracks on Historia cross over from rhumba, pop, dance jazz, and of course have the passion, spirit, and love of Gipsy Kings music."
The album 'Historia' involves family contributions, with Baliardo's sons Cosso and Mikael assisting on writing and recording tracks. His grandson Milan suggested the title for 'Big Bang,' and 'Cielo' honors his late brother Paco, an original member who died during production. The lead single was 'Señorita.'
Available formats include CD, sand-colored vinyl, and a limited-edition blue-and-white cloud pattern vinyl, with bundles offering a signed 12-inch print. The 'Historia Tour' begins in North America in March, followed by dates in Germany and Switzerland in May, and additional international shows through the year.