Background on Rodrigo de la Cadena and the Bolero Genre
Rodrigo de la Cadena, a renowned promoter, composer, and singer known as “El niño Bolero,” has been a prominent figure in the bolero genre. This musical style was inscribed in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2023. De la Cadena has dedicated his life to promoting the bolero, organizing festivals and concerts for vulnerable individuals and those with chronic illnesses, such as the “Un canto por la tiroides” concert in 2022. He has also initiated a cultural program in hospitals, as he himself suffers from hemofilia.
The Dispute with Campeche Authorities
In a public letter to the governor of Campeche, Layda Sansores, de la Cadena expressed his disappointment with the local cultural authorities’ lack of support for bolero promotion. He claims that the Directorate of Culture in Campeche has closed doors to him and disregarded his efforts to promote the state’s cultural heritage.
De la Cadena’s Achievements in Veracruz
Just days before writing the letter, the Government of Veracruz, led by Governor Rocío Nahle, entrusted de la Cadena with organizing and presenting the World Bolero Festival. This event benefited over 10,000 people with high-level cultural programming in two cities simultaneously for four consecutive days. The Veracruz government not only valued the initiative but also provided employment for hundreds of artists, musicians, and cultural workers.
The Contrast in Treatment Between Veracruz and Campeche
De la Cadena highlights the stark contrast in treatment between Veracruz and Campeche. In Veracruz, where he does not reside, he received respectful and professional support. However, in Campeche, where he has invested part of his life, owns property, and has deep personal connections, he has been ignored, blocked, and disrespected by the local cultural authorities. He asserts that the issue is no longer personal but institutional, questioning how much more talent will leave Campeche due to the lack of political will.
Who is Rodrigo de la Cadena?
Rodrigo de la Cadena is a distinguished figure in the bolero genre, having received the Agustín Lara Medal in 2011 and winning the Grand Prize at the Slavianski Bazaar International Arts Festival in Vitebsk, Belarus, in 2014. He has participated in international festivals and concerts across Mexico and various countries, sharing stages with prominent artists like tenor Fernando de la Mora and Susana Zavaleta.
Current Projects
Currently, de la Cadena produces and hosts the radio programs “Nuevamente bolero” on ABC Radio and “Noche, Boleros y Son” on Canal Once. He is set to present the concert “La sinfonía de la memoria” at the National Auditorium on November 9.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Rodrigo de la Cadena? Rodrigo de la Cadena is a prominent bolero musician, composer, and promoter known as “El niño Bolero.” He has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting this musical genre.
- What is the issue between de la Cadena and Campeche authorities? De la Cadena claims that the local cultural authorities in Campeche have disregarded his efforts to promote bolero, closing doors to him and ignoring his projects despite his significant contributions to the state’s cultural heritage.
- What achievements has de la Cadena accomplished? De la Cadena has received the Agustín Lara Medal, won the Grand Prize at the Slavianski Bazaar International Arts Festival, and organized successful festivals like the World Bolero Festival in Veracruz, benefiting thousands of people.
- What is the significance of the bolero genre? The bolero is a significant musical style in Mexico and other Latin American countries, recognized by UNESCO for its cultural value. Rodrigo de la Cadena is a prominent figure in preserving and promoting this genre.
