Venezuelan artists unite: a historic conversation in Miami amid crisis
Venezuelan artists: Nacho, Danny Ocean, Elena Rose, Lele Pons, and Mau y Ricky are engaging in discussions about music, politics, social media, and activism.
This fall, amidst the turmoil following Venezuela’s controversial presidential election—where Nicolás Maduro claimed victory despite clear evidence to the contrary—six influential Venezuelan artists gathered in Miami for what many considered a pivotal conversation.
Their meeting came just two months after the election plunged the country into further crisis, highlighting the resilience and unity of these musicians.
A Challenging Journey
Despite the travel disruptions caused by Hurricane Helene, the artists made their way to a studio in Coconut Grove. Danny Ocean arrived from Mexico, Elena Rose traveled from Italy, and others, including Nacho, Mau y Ricky, and Lele Pons, joined them.
Their presence underscores the growing prominence of Venezuelan musicians in the global music scene, reminiscent of the 1980s when stars like Oscar D’Leon, “El Puma” José Luis Rodríguez, and Ricardo Montaner enjoyed significant success abroad.
Latin Grammy Recognition
This year marks a notable achievement for Venezuelan artists, with over 20 nominees at the Latin Grammy Awards, including multiple nominations for Elena Rose, Danny Ocean, and Mau y Ricky. Additionally, there is an increasing representation of Venezuelans on the Billboard charts.
These artists are not just gaining fame for their music; they are also leveraging their platforms to address the political struggles in their homeland, a cause that resonates deeply with them.
The Concert Scene in Crisis
Prior to the July election, the concert business had been one of the few bright spots in Venezuela’s ailing economy.
International stars like Luis Miguel and Karol G filled stadiums in Caracas earlier this year, but the political climate has hindered local artists from performing. Nacho, for instance, has been unable to sing publicly in Venezuela since 2016 due to his criticisms of the government.
Camaraderie and Resilience
In Miami, the atmosphere was filled with camaraderie as Mau y Ricky animatedly reminisced with Nacho about the better times in Venezuela. Meanwhile, Elena Rose and Lele Pons shared a warm hug, showcasing the strong bonds formed through their shared experiences.
Danny Ocean, arriving straight from the airport, greeted everyone with a bright smile, embodying the spirit of resilience that defines this group of artists.
As they gather in Miami, these Venezuelan musicians not only celebrate their achievements but also amplify the voices of their compatriots who continue to suffer in their homeland, reinforcing their commitment to both their craft and their cause.