Carlos Vives brings his 30-year legacy of Colombian vallenato to the Tiny Desk with a 12-piece band blending accordions, alegre drums, gaita and even electric guitar. Revisiting classics like “La Cachucha Bacana,” “La Tierra del Olvido” and “Fruta Fresca,” he proves that deep grooves and rich folk traditions still pack a punch—even in a tiny space.
This set is part of NPR Music’s “El Tiny” takeover celebrating Latinidad from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. With longtime collaborators fueling every beat, Vives shows why he’s Colombia’s folk-rock icon, serving up a fiery, history-soaked performance you won’t want to miss.
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