Latino USA
Grow the future of journalism: Join Futuro+
- Support independent journalism: Help Futuro Media produce impactful journalism and storytelling with heart.
- Bonus episodes: Hear exclusive interviews, extended conversations, and behind-the-scenes chisme.
- Early access to new seasons: Be the first to hear every episode of your favorite shows…ad free!
- Inside scoop: Exclusive access to special newsletters and events with Maria and Futuro Media producers.
Description
For this week’s Latino USA, we’re bringing you an episode from the newly released podcast series from WNYC Studios and Futuro Studios, La Brega, The Puerto Rican Experience in Eight Songs.
Gabby Rivera was 7 when Willie Colón released “El Gran Varón” in 1989. She remembers her father playing in the Bronx. The cinematic arc of the song would stick with her: Simón, depicted as a trans queer person, is shunned by their father and dies alone of what’s assumed to be AIDS. “El Gran Varón” was first banned by some radio stations but became an international hit anyway. Many call it one of the most well-known Latin songs of all time. Its songwriter explains that it was inspired by a rumor about a real-life friend. Only years later did he realize his lyrics contained an eerie prophecy.
You can subscribe to La Brega here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.