Duquende

The singer known as Duquende is Juan Rafael Cortés Santiago, a highly respected Spanish flamenco vocalist. He is widely recognized for his absolute mastery of traditional cante jondo, which is the deep, profound song style of flamenco. His self-titled album highlights his raw vocal power and his adherence to the strict traditional roots of the genre.

Duquende is most famous for performing cante jondo, a deeply emotional and rigorous style of flamenco singing. This style is considered the purest form of flamenco, characterized by tragic themes, vocal breaks, and complex microtonal melodies. His performances strictly adhere to these traditional structures, showcasing his profound respect for the genre's historical roots.

Yes, throughout his career, Duquende has worked closely with some of the most legendary figures in modern flamenco. He has notably collaborated with the iconic virtuoso guitarist Paco de Lucía, performing and touring with his ensemble. These collaborations have cemented Duquende's status among the elite tier of traditional flamenco artists.

The self-titled album 'Duquende' serves as a pure showcase of traditional flamenco artistry, focusing heavily on vocal delivery and rhythm. The album highlights his command of various palos, or flamenco song forms, stripped of modern pop or electronic fusion elements. It is an auditory celebration of the deep, ancestral roots of Andalusian music.