*Cover Photo By: Gabriel Gomez
On Friday evening, the renowned Colombian singer, Andrés Cepeda, graced the city of Boston with his captivating “Tengo Ganas” tour. Emerging onto the music scene in the 90s as a member of the band Poligamia, Cepeda rode the wave of Latin-rock that swept through Spanish-speaking countries. After they disbanded, Cepeda embarked on a solo career, quickly earning a reputation as the master of heartfelt melodies and ballads. Taking the stage at the intimate Shubert Theater downtown, Cepeda delivered a mesmerizing performance, showcasing a repertoire that spanned the spectrum of his musical journey.
Stepping onto the stage clad in sleek all-black attire and his trademark glasses, the singer set the tone for the evening by launching into the titular track of his tour, “Tengo Ganas.” The resounding chorus of fans in the venue echoed his every note, a powerful testament to the profound impact his music has had on their lives.
In a heartfelt moment, Cepeda expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome in Boston, emphasizing that he wasn’t simply there to perform for the audience, but to share in the experience alongside them. He spoke passionately about the joy of singing alongside the audience, describing the connection forged through music as akin to that of lifelong friends. With an infectious enthusiasm, he conveyed his eagerness to weave stories through his music, infusing the night with an undeniable sense of anticipation and excitement.
From the outset, Cepeda’s magnetic charm anchored the evening, ensuring his presence lingered throughout. With a delightful blend of humor and casual ease, he regaled the audience with engaging anecdotes and even orchestrated a playful prank. Noticing his tardy friends were not in the crowd upon taking the stage, Cepeda seized the opportunity for mischief, enlisting the audience’s cooperation in a clever ruse. As he reached the fourth song of the night, his friends finally arrived, prompting him to feign a premature farewell. Amidst a standing ovation and plunging darkness, his friends were left bewildered while the audience erupted in laughter. Returning to the stage with a contagious grin, Cepeda playfully thanked those who had arrived early. This mischievous escapade infused the night with an exhilarating energy, cementing the sense of camaraderie between performer and audience.
As the night unfolded, the haunting melody of “Déjame Ir” filled the air, inviting listeners on a journey through the turmoil of love and longing. Initially, the song’s narrative chronicles a plea for separation, rationalizing that distance might ease the ache of an unforeseen romance. Yet, as the melody unfurls, the lyrics undergo a transformation, with the protagonist ultimately begging their beloved to stay, unable to deny the irresistible pull of their connection. It’s a soul-stirring anthem that captures the timeless struggle between the dictates of the heart and the rationality of the mind.
Notably, this emotive ballad was a collaborative effort between the singer and the Colombian band Morat, who had graced Boston with their presence earlier in the year. With their shared penchant for crafting soulful tunes that delve deep into matters of the heart, the partnership between Cepeda and Morat was a natural fit. Their musical synergy was so seamless that it extended beyond “Déjame Ir”; in fact, one of Cepeda’s latest tracks, “Prométeme,” was co-produced and co-written by members of Morat, further solidifying the bond between these two musical powerhouses.
Fan-favorite tunes like “Magia,” originally featuring a collaboration with fellow Colombian singer Sebastian Yatra, and the heartfelt dedication to his wife, “En Otra Vida,” resonated the loudest throughout the night, stirring the crowd’s emotions. The show brimmed with delightful surprises, none more heartwarming than during the performance of another cherished track, “Por el Resto de Mi Vida.” Before the start of the song, Cepeda paused to reveal a charming tradition: a trend of proposals taking place during this very tune. Seizing the moment, he invited any aspiring proposers to make their move before the song. Without skipping a beat, a gentleman in the audience rose with a ring box in hand, dropping to one knee to pop the question to his beloved. Cheers erupted as Cepeda resumed singing, crafting a tender moment for the newly engaged couple and all those present.
Adding to the evening’s allure was a surprise appearance by up and coming artist Alejandro Santamaría. Taking the stage, he treated the audience to three captivating performances, two of which featured collaborations with Andres Cepeda, further enhancing the night’s musical tapestry.
Onstage, complementing Cepeda, a dynamic band of six musicians added layers of depth and richness to the overall performance. With two skilled guitarists, a solid bassist, a rhythm-driving drummer, a versatile keyboardist, and a standout saxophonist, every note we experienced that night was delivered proudly and authentically, completely live. Among the standout moments were the electrifying guitar solo in “Lo Mejor Que Hay en Mi Vida” and the mesmerizing appearances of saxophonist Sergio Chaple, whose jazzy interludes captivated the audience time and time again.
A favorite highlight of the night occurred when Cepeda ventured offstage and ascended to one of the balconies, transforming it into a temporary stage. From this unique vantage point, he serenaded the crowd with the soulful “Desvanecer,” accompanied by the smooth saxophone melodies provided by his talented friend. Sharing a personal anecdote with the audience, Cepeda revealed that “Desvanecer” was the first song he ever heard himself sing on the radio. He recounted how, in a stroke of fate, he ended up recording the song when the original singer from his former band fell ill during the recording session. Despite the unexpected turn of events, Cepeda rose to the occasion, cementing his place as a versatile and resilient artist.
As the night neared its end, Andres Cepeda rallied the crowd to their feet, signaling the shift to the dance-infused segment of his performance. The infectious rhythm of “Dia tras día,” a track designed for stadium-sized audiences, ignited the venue, infusing it with an electrifying energy reminiscent of Cepeda’s early Latin rock roots.
Following this exhilarating anthem, a dynamic blend of pasillos, boleros, and rock melodies closed out the evening, transforming the atmosphere into a lively celebration. From the soulful ballads that marked the beginning of the show to the high-energy rock crescendos that capped it off, Andres Cepeda guided the audience through a musical journey uniquely reflective of his personal evolution.
This concert served as a vibrant testament to Andres Cepeda’s enduring artistry and the profound impact of his music on all those fortunate enough to have joined him on his journey. In a city where the Latin music scene continues to flourish, Cepeda exemplifies the joyful, energetic, and unapologetic approach to love and relationships that Latin culture embodies. As he concluded his American tour in Charlotte on May 4th, anticipation mounts for his next appearance in town.
Andres Cepeda Online: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | Spotify | Apple Music
PHOTO BY: Gabriel Gomez
