Rosalía in CDMX: preaches a new pop creed and sums faithful with Lux

Rosalía, the Spanish singer known for blending flamenco with contemporary genres, performed in Mexico City this week under a new artistic vision, drawing thousands to the Palacio de los Deportes for five consecutive nights. At 33 years old, she presented her fourth studio album, Lux, which features a diverse array of languages including Catalan, French, and Japanese, reflecting her desire to include the world in her music. The concert, described as a "new credo pop," featured a stage designed like a cross, with a 22-member orchestra and dancers, creating a theatrical experience that mixed sacred imagery with modern beats. The performance took place after Rosalía had already drawn large crowds in Guadalajara and Monterrey earlier in the month. In 2022, she sold out two shows at the Auditorio Nacional in Mexico City, indicating growing popularity among Mexican audiences. This time, the concerts were structured like an opera, moving through several acts before culminating in a celebratory finale. Rosalía appeared dressed in white, performing in pointe shoes, emphasizing the transformation from her previous work into a more classical and orchestral style. Her evolution over the past decade has been marked by critical acclaim and awards, including two Grammy Awards and 11 Latin Grammy Awards. Collaborations with artists such as Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, The Weeknd, and Björk have further solidified her international presence. With Lux, she aimed to create a universal sound, incorporating multiple languages and styles, though she acknowledged limitations in fully representing the world within one album. The concert included elements of religious symbolism, such as veils, relics, and a confessional booth, alongside tracks like "SAOKO," "LA FAMA," "BIZCOCHITO," and "DESPECHÁ." These contrasts highlighted the duality of her music, blending sacred themes with danceable rhythms. The confessional segment was a recurring feature, with invited guests sharing personal stories before performances of specific songs. In Guadalajara, the guest was Yeri Mua, who spoke about a relationship marked by infidelity, while in Monterrey, streamer Samy Rivers recounted a romantic disappointment. For the upcoming Mexico City shows, no guest has yet been confirmed for the confessional. However, the structure of the concert remained consistent, offering a mix of solemnity and revelry. Rosalía emphasized her growth as an artist, focusing on inner reflection rather than external desires. She mentioned learning to "desire less," a shift influenced by experiences and a deeper understanding of self. Rosalía's approach to music continues to evolve, integrating classical elements with electronic sounds and urban rhythms. Her latest work, Lux, reflects this synthesis, featuring orchestral arrangements alongside tracks that resonate with contemporary audiences. The performance in Mexico City underscored her ability to connect with fans through both traditional and modern expressions, maintaining a balance between spiritual imagery and the energy of the dance floor. The concerts drew attention not only for their musical content but also for their visual spectacle, combining elements of theater, religion, and modern culture. Each night offered a unique experience, reinforcing Rosalía's reputation as an innovative performer capable of transforming the concert stage into a multifaceted space. As she continues to explore new creative directions, her influence on global music remains evident, supported by a dedicated fan base that follows her artistic journey.