In the vibrant tapestry of Peruvian music, Wataka stands out as a beacon of cumbia excellence. Their captivating rhythms and soulful melodies have captivated audiences worldwide, earning them a devoted following that spans generations.
Origins and Formation
Wataka was born in 2006, the brainchild of producer and musician Juan Carlos Fernández. Inspired by the traditional sounds of cumbia, he assembled a group of talented musicians who shared his vision of creating a contemporary take on the genre. The band's name, "Wataka," was derived from the indigenous Quechua language and means "messenger."
Members and Musical Style
The original lineup of Wataka featured Juan Carlos Fernández on lead vocals and bass guitar, Mauro Pérez on lead guitar, Richard Flores on drums, and David Calderón on keyboard and accordion. Their musical style seamlessly blended traditional cumbia with elements of rock, pop, and Andean folk music, creating a unique and infectious sound that resonated with listeners.
Early Success and International Recognition
Wataka's debut album, "Wataka," released in 2007, quickly captured the attention of music lovers in Peru and beyond. The album's title track, "Qué Quieres de Mí," became an instant hit, propelling the band to mainstream success. It showcased their captivating blend of cumbia rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and soaring melodies.
Over the years, Wataka has released several successful albums, including "Amanecer" (2009), "Para Siempre" (2012), and "El Mundo de Wataka" (2016). Their music has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including several Peruvian Grammy nominations. They have also toured extensively throughout Latin America, Europe, and the United States, captivating audiences with their energetic live performances.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite their immense popularity, Wataka has faced its share of challenges and controversies. In 2010, the band was accused of plagiarism by the Peruvian band Grupo 5. The accusation stemmed from similarities between Wataka's hit song "Qué Quieres de Mí" and Grupo 5's song "Puro Sentimiento." The issue was eventually resolved out of court.
Another controversy emerged in 2015 when Wataka was accused of using sexist lyrics in their song "Pegate." The song's lyrics drew criticism for objectifying women and promoting sexual violence. The band later issued an apology and removed the song from their repertoire.
Discography
Wataka's discography includes the following albums:
* Wataka (2007) * Amanecer (2009) * Para Siempre (2012) * El Mundo de Wataka (2016) * Cumbia en Vivo (2018) * Sinfónico (2022)