Music – South of the Border

There are few vocalists in any language or music genre as impressive as Mexico’s Lila Downs.
A singer of unequaled ability and a superb songwriter, who delivers both originals and traditional song mostly in Spanish. She has also recorded some English tracks, however you do not even need to know Spanish to be able to understand the emotion, pain, soul, heart, as well as joy that she delivers in her wonderful performances.

She is also recognizable for her flamboyant fashion sense which includes traditional and other colorful fashion.
Her honors include one Grammy Award and two Latin Grammy Awards as well as numerous chart topping albums and songs in Mexico as well as worldwide success.

Lila Downs, began her recording career in 1994, her first studio album was released in 1999.
One of the most soulful, sensual and emotionally charged artists I have encountered.
If you do not know her music, a wonderful, enriching treat awaits you as you discover the musical riches which is Lila Downs.

I have found that much of the popular music referred to as Latin or Latino music, can frequently be silly pop music tinged with dance rhythms, laced with large amounts of hip hop grooves and studio sampling techniques to create a generally vulgar “dancy” mix. Which all leave me quite disappointed as the real Latin music, authentic or traditional is rich in beauty and complexity.

In Lila Downs you find none of that silliness or shallowness, only authentic music untinged by a producer grasping for a pop hit. Only truth, authenticity deeply rooted in the rich traditions of Mexico and Latin America. Which I find deeply satisfying and keeps me coming back for more.

Amongst her at least 12 albums, my personal favorites are:

– Pecados y Milagros (Sins and Miracles)(2012)

– Balas y Chocolate (Bullets and Chocolate) (2015)