CHUCHO PONCE Y LOS DADDYS

The grand finale of Grand Performances’ 38th summer season was a cornucopia of cumbia. We witnessed the entire breadth of this beloved genre, from its old school beginnings in Colombia to the innovative new takes we’re currently hearing all across Latin America.

First, DJ Chihuahua got the ball rolling with a very lively opening set, which was MC’d by MexTape.

Then Yeison Landero took us on a journey through traditional Colombian cumbia, from which he hails. His band’s upbeat accordion and guacharaca rhythms energized our increasingly large crowd.

Later, our headliners Chucho Ponce y Los Daddys showed us the present and future of cumbia. Heavy on synths, their sound felt electrified, especially with their use of reverbed vocal effects. Framed by a backdrop of mesmerizing light patterns, Chucho and his band commanded our stage with poise and charisma. Before them danced thousands of cumbia fans, their joy emanating from Cal Plaza.

Our friends at CHIRLA (the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights) contributed to that palpable joy. Both at their booth and while speaking on stage, they spread their message of reuniting families and giving some of our most vulnerable communities the dignity, respect and resources they need to thrive. It’s an essential and serious mission, but thankfully for one evening they were able to celebrate their hard fought political wins and dance the night away. If you want to get involved, don’t hesitate to give them a follow!

We thank everyone who attended our final 2024 show, and all who came through to support us during the entire season. We’re looking forward to some rest and relaxation before regrouping to plan next year’s musical journeys.