Quique Neira, the charismatic icon of latin reggae, has risen to legendary status in Latin America since the 1990s. His mellow mix of roots, rock, reggae and latin rhythms has drawn hundreds of thousands of enthusiastic audience to small clubs and large festivals in Latin America, as well in Europe at world music and reggae festivals.
Quique Neira grew up in San Ramon, one of the ‘non-wealthy’ parts of Santiago de Chile. He is a musical ambassador for social justice and advocate for the Chilean Mapuche indigenous minority. He is authentic in his lyrics, which give insights to life and love, culture and social problems of South America.
Considered to be one of Latin America’s most famous and talented musicians, honoured in Chile with the National Arts Award and Award APES in 2006 and the National Arts Award in 2012 for his latest album.
‘What has happened is always what I imagined and dreamt, since I was 17 years old with my guitar and my first songs. That my music would be able to cross borders,’ says Quique.
Quique Neira plays Boomerang Festival, Byron Bay October 4–6. Head to www.boomerangfestival.com.au for more information.
