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Gracias a la vida – Here's to Life cover

Gracias a la vida – Here's to Life

Joan Baez

Album 1974
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About this album

Sound: "A heartfelt blend of folk and traditional Latin sounds, celebrating life and resilience through poignant storytelling."

Where they were

By the time Joan Baez released 'Gracias a la Vida' in 1974, she was an established folk icon, known for her socially conscious lyrics and powerful voice. This album followed her previous work, 'Come from the Shadows,' and marked her deepening engagement with Latin American music and themes, showcasing her versatility as an artist during a prolific era in her career.

Why it matters

The album is significant for its cultural impact, particularly in introducing Latin American music to a broader audience through Baez's interpretive lens. It features 'Gracias a la Vida,' a song originally by Violeta Parra that has since become an anthem of hope and resistance, reflecting the political climate of the time and earning Baez renewed acclaim.

Essential tracks

  • "Gracias a la vida (Here's to Life)" — 'Gracias a la Vida' is not only the title track but also a powerful anthem of gratitude that resonates with listeners across generations, embodying themes of love and loss.
  • "La Llorona (The Weeping Woman)" — This haunting rendition of a traditional Mexican song showcases Baez's emotive vocal style while connecting deeply with themes of sorrow and longing.
  • "El preso número nueve (Prisoner Number Nine)" — This track reflects Baez's commitment to social justice, telling the story of a prisoner with poignant empathy, thereby highlighting the album's thematic depth.
  • "No nos moverán (We Shall Not Be Moved)" — 'No nos moverán' stands out as a protest song that reinforces collective resilience, aligning with Baez's activist spirit while appealing to contemporary movements.

Release Date

April 1, 1974

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Gracias a la vida (Here's to Life) 3:35
  2. 2 Llegó con tres heridas (I Come With Three Wounds) 2:15
  3. 3 La Llorona (The Weeping Woman) 3:40
  4. 4 El preso número nueve (Prisoner Number Nine) 3:24
  5. 5 Guantanamera 3:52
  6. 6 Te recuerdo Amanda (I Remember You Amanda) 2:33
  7. 7 Dida 3:33
  8. 8 Cucurrucucú paloma 4:30
  9. 9 Paso río (I Pass a River) 0:56
  10. 10 El rossinyol (The Nightingale) 3:04
  11. 11 De colores (In Colors) 2:28
  12. 12 Las madres cansadas (All the Weary Mothers of the Earth) 2:57
  13. 13 No nos moverán (We Shall Not Be Moved) 3:41
  14. 14 Esquinazo del guerrillero (Guerilla's Serenade) 2:41

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