By Aldrid Da Costa
Wherever you may go, in the beautiful state of Goa, you’re bound to witness music. Local Goan people tapping their feet to the rhythm of the beat or whistling along with a tune they can hear somewhere in the back ground. Be it listening to the stereo on the bus or in a busy restaurant, like Gloria Estefan proclaimed “the rhythm is gonna get you.”
Goan Music legends
Music in Goa has been influenced by many different sounds, from the traditional Indian tabla to the western guitar. Musicians such as the late Chris Perry and the late Emiliano da Cruz have become household names inside and outside the state.
Goan stars like Remo, Lorna and Bondo are still rocking the stage. Talented Goan bands have also carved out a niche for themselves, by being invited to play shows around the globe to cater to the tastes of non-resident Goans. The wedding scene is also thriving.
The music that Goans appreciate is varied. This is best showcased by the famous artists and bands who have taken the stage in recent years. We recently saw disco bands such as Ottawan and Kaoma get the crowds swaying on May Day in Goa. Here are 5 others:
Jose Feliciano– In February 2008, the Latin maestro performed at the Kala Academy in Panjim. The Goan Christmas favourite, Feliz Navidad sent the crowd into raptures.
The Bellamy Brothers– In 2014, the popular country duo, played at the Quinto da Valladares in Verna.
The Venga Boys– The Dutch euro dance group made the stage go “Boom, Boom, Boom, Boom” when they performed in Mapusa, in May 2015.
Michael Learns to Rock– In December 2015, the Danish trio belted out all their famous hits at the Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, Bambolim.
Enrique Iglesias– In December 2015, Enrique was flown in to perform at a private party in Candolim, for Vijay Mallya’s 60th birthday.
Changing times
Being a cosmopolitan holiday destination, Goa has embraced different genres of music. Electronic dance music and trance, may not bring music to the ears for all, but they have become slowly entwined in the Goa music story. Famous Dj’s have even added Goa to their annual gigs. Off late marketing companies have been promoting popular end of year music concerts such as Sunburn and the Goa Beach Grind, which has raised a lot of attention.
Who would you like to see next play live in Goa?
