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Madrid: Music Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

Compilations and classic songs that put you in mind of the city, from Traveler’s city playlist.

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Compilations:

Alaska y Sus Canciones de la Movida, by Alaska
Alaska was a star of the movida madrileña, the alternative socio-cultural movement of art, music, nightlife, and decadence that exploded in the years after Franco’s death. Inspired by punk, New Wave, and electronic pop, these classic songs capture that heady era.

Devil Came to Me, by Dover
Backing catchy pop melodies and English lyrics with thunderous, grunge-inspired guitars, this album propelled the Madrid-based group to European fame.

Entre Dos Aguas, by Paco de Lucía
One of the most revered albums by the Spanish guitar maestro; when it was released in 1973, the title song marked the beginning of “new flamenco” by bringing the guitar to the forefront and adding congas, bass, and other instruments.

Grandes Éxitos, by José Mercé
One of the most popular cantaor (flamenco singers) working today; singing since a child, this Madrid-based artist brings a passion to his performances that enthralls both flamenco purists and mainstream fans.

Siempre en Madrid/Always in Madrid, by various artists
Produced by the Madrid Tourism Office; a series of original songs blending traditional Madrid melodies with jazz and flamenco.

La Verbena de la Paloma, by Tómas Bretón
One of the greatest zarzuelas of all time; zarzuela is a traditional form of Madrid operetta, which originated in the 17th century.

Classic Songs:

From an 18th-century orchestral classic to an 80s pop anthem, these Spanish songs were inspired by Madrid.

1. “La Puerta de Alcalá” (The Gate of Alcalá), Ana Belén y Victor Manuel
2. “Retirada Nocturna de Madrid” (“Procession of the Military Night Watch in Madrid”), Luigi Rodolfo Boccherini
3. “Te Dejo Madrid” (“I Leave You Madrid”), Shakira
4. “Ultima Mirada” (“The Last Look”), Juan Sin Miedo
5. “Vuelvo a Madrid” (“Return to Madrid”), Ismael Serrano
6. “Yo Me Bajo en Atocha” (“I Get Off in Atocha”) and “Pongamos Que Hablo de Madrid” (“Let’s Say I’m Talking about Madrid”), Joaquín Sabina

Madrid Multimedia

Know Before You Go: Madrid

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