Tostao, whose real name is Carlos Valencia, is one of the founding members of Choquibtown, a Colombian musical group that blends traditional Afro-Caribbean rhythms with contemporary sounds. Tostao was born on August 4, 1979, in the Pacific coast city of Quibdó, Colombia. Now, he continues to explore solo and with his new songs, the rhythm of the “exotic” where he brings together rhythms of Afro-Latin folklore, with urban music, in addition, this project seeks to support different emerging artists of the Colombian Pacific. Perhaps you are wondering who “Tostao” is, or maybe his name sounds very familiar to you, so now, I will tell you a little more about this great Colombian musician who seeks to immortalize and make folkloric rhythms visible around the world and who arrives this March with his new song “La temperatura” (The Temperature).

Tostao is known for his skills as a rapper and lyricist, and his contributions to Choquibtown’s unique sound. He often incorporates social and political commentary into his lyrics, addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and violence in Colombia and the Afro-Caribbean community.

Aside from his work with Choquibtown, Tostao has also collaborated with other artists, including Colombian rapper and producer, Héctor Buitrago, and the French-Colombian musician, Manu Chao. He has also been involved in social and environmental activism, using his platform to raise awareness and advocate for causes such as sustainable development and indigenous rights.

In addition to his musical career, Tostao is also a filmmaker, having studied film at the University of Caldas in Colombia. He has directed several music videos for Choquibtown and other artists, and his work often addresses social issues and cultural identity.

Overall, Tostao is an important member of Choquibtown and a significant figure in Colombia’s music and cultural scene. His contributions as a rapper, lyricist, and filmmaker have helped to promote greater appreciation for the cultural diversity of the Afro-Caribbean region, while his activism has made a positive impact on society and the environment.

Now, I will tell you about the group to which Tostao belongs. CocquibTown is a Colombian musical group that blends Afro-Caribbean rhythms with urban and electronic sounds. The group was formed in 2000 in the Pacific coast city of Cali by lead singer and rapper, Mr. Black, and producers and instrumentalists, Goyo and Slow. Here is an analysis of CocquibTown’s music and style:

Musical Style

CocquibTown’s music is a fusion of traditional Colombian rhythms, such as salsa, cumbia, and champeta, with hip hop, reggae, and electronic music. Their sound is characterized by the use of live instrumentation, including drums, percussion, guitar, and horns, combined with electronic beats and synthesizers.

Lyric

CocquibTown’s lyrics often touch on social issues affecting Colombia and the Afro-Caribbean community, including poverty, violence, and inequality. They also celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region, including its music, dance, and food.

Cultural Significance

CocquibTown is known for pioneering the “NuAfro” movement, which seeks to blend traditional Afro-Caribbean music with contemporary sounds. Their music has been embraced by audiences in Colombia and around the world and has helped to promote a greater appreciation for the region’s cultural diversity.

Notable Achievements

CocquibTown has achieved significant success both in Colombia and internationally. They have released several albums, including “Somos Pacifico” (2006), which won the Latin Grammy Award for Best Alternative Song, and “El Mar de Sus Ojos” (2012), which features collaborations with artists such as Juanes and Ricardo Arjona. They have also performed at major music festivals around the world, including Coachella and Glastonbury.

In summary, CocquibTown is a Colombian musical group that has significantly impacted the music scene both in Colombia and internationally. Their unique blend of traditional Afro-Caribbean rhythms with contemporary sounds has helped to promote a greater appreciation for the cultural diversity of the region. At the same time, their lyrics often touch on important social issues affecting Colombia and the Afro-Caribbean community.