Los Ángeles Azules

Family band Los Ángeles Azules are the progenitors of "future Cumbia." Their sound, categorized as "Cumbia Sonidera," is an urban, gritty, working-class expansion of the Cumbia Colombiana style that exploded in Mexico during the 1970s. Their adaptation relies on rich harmonies, call-and-response vocals, and a meld of organic and electronic instruments/treatments. Los Ángeles Azules' 1982 debut album, Ritmo... Alegría... Sabor!, Vol. 1, united Cumbia rhythms with romantic ranchera melodies executed in perfect five-part vocal harmony. The group recorded constantly through their early years, adding more urban production to their recordings. The 1996 single "Como Te Voy A Olvidar" from Inolvidables, marked their Hot Latin Songs and Latin Airplay chart debuts. Three years later, the number four single "El Liston de Tu Pelo" earned a Premio Lo Nuestro award for best Cumbia song. In the 21st century, Los Ángeles Azules became Cumbia royalty. They toured the world playing sold-out concerts everywhere from clubs to soccer stadiums. 2003's Alas Al Mundo netted a Mexican Oye award. In 2006, Interpretan Excitos de Juan Gabriel was the first Cumbia tribute to the songwriter; it topped the album charts at home