There are guitar players… and then there are virtuosos who turn six strings into something that can circle the globe in a steady 4/4 groove. Tonino Baliardo firmly belongs to the latter. As the founder and creative force behind the Gipsy Kings, he didn’t just write international hits like Bamboléo and Djobi, Djoba. He built an entire musical universe, blending flamenco with rumba catalana in a way that practically pulls your hips into motion.
With the new album Historia, Baliardo doesn’t merely look back. He distills a lifetime of memories, influences, and emotions into something deeply personal. That same sense of continuity carries into the present, where he now shares the stage with his sons, Mikaël and Cosso, turning music into a living legacy. In the interview, Tonino Baliardo reflects on Historia, on loss and renewal, on the quiet magic of live performance and on why a single song can sometimes move more than any political speech.
How are you doing these days?
Tonino Baliardo: All well, thanks. As always, working with the Gipsy Kings.
What does the title Historia mean to you personally?
Historia is the title of my new album and fits perfectly with my concept.
The concept of Historia was to write and produce an album that brings together influences and memories of my life.
Was there a defining moment in the studio that shaped the album?
Recording is always a great joy for me, especially having my two sons Mikaël and Cosso, joining me along with the other Gipsys. The whole process was enjoyable and very rewarding.
Bamboléo became a global anthem. What do you feel today when you play those first chords?
Everyone loves and knows Bamboléo. The reaction is always incredible. We are always working on new ways to play Bamboléo.
Which track is closest to your heart and why?
Sadly, during the recording of Historia my dear brother Paco passed away. Paco was one of the original Gipsy Kings. The track Cielo, an instrumental, I have dedicated in loving memory to Paco and will be releasing it as a single later this month.
I’m so sorry for your loss. If Historia was a film, what genre would it be?
Suprise you. Wait for my documentary.
Your upcoming documentary on Amazon Prime Video. What will fans discover that they’ve never seen before?
The documentary “Gipsy Kings Featuring Tonino Baliardo” will tell the truth and history of my life.
Was there a moment in the documentary that surprised or moved you?
The first screening I had was last month while we were on tour in the US. I was joined by Cosso, Mikaël and all the other Gipsys, and our crew. Seeing your life on screen with your family was a wonderful feeling. Like everyone’s life, there are happy and sad moments.
Is there a song in your repertoire that transforms completely when played live?
That’s a difficult question to answer. Obviously, when I play Cielo, it is a very emotional experience for me.
Your version of Volare is iconic. How has your relationship with that song evolved over time?
Volare is, of course, an Italian song with a wonderful, uplifting chorus and feeling. It never seems to date. After our shows, we always hear the audience leaving the theatre singing Volare or Bamboléo.
If your guitar could talk, what would it reveal about you?
That next to my family and friends, my guitar is the most important thing to me.
Music connects cultures — does that feel more important now than ever?
Yes, our music transcends generations, borders, and languages worldwide.
What role can music play in a politically tense world?
The world is in a very sad place at the moment, and I fear for the younger generation. Music can be a great therapy and reaches the soul more than any other force.
What’s a hidden story behind one of your biggest hits that fans rarely hear about?
The idea of Djobi, Djoba came about when we were young Gipsys driving along in an old van. I had this idea and played the basic chords to everyone, and that song then became another hit.
Do you believe music can truly change things or mainly comfort people?
Yes, I do believe music can help and comfort people. I witness this at all our concerts. We start of by welcoming everyone to our special fiesta and the joy – smiling faces, people dancing – lifts us through the show.
Is there a city on this tour you’re especially looking forward to?
Over the years, I’ve travelled the world many times and never tire of meeting old and new fans. I appreciate how lucky I’ve been.
How do you prepare mentally before going on tour?
Backstage, I play my guitar, laugh, and talk with the other Gipsys. Going on stage is always very exciting.
Do TV performances still give you a sense of thrill, or are they routine now?
I always enjoy playing. Whether on TV or concerts. Bringing Gipsy Kings music to everyone is the best thing for me.
What’s the most unusual place you’ve ever played guitar?
We had permission from the Gibraltar government to perform on top of the Rock of Gibraltar for a TV show. This had never been done before.
If you could collaborate with an artist from a completely different world of music, who would it be?
Paul McCartney.
Early morning or late night songwriting?
Anytime. I love writing.
Bowl a strike with Jeff Bridges or dance through the night with John Turturro?
Jeff Bridges.
Thank you for your time and all the best.
The journey continues: Tonino Baliardo and the Gipsy Kings are set to bring their unmistakable sound back to stages across Europe this spring and summer. The upcoming tour will take them through major cities including Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Stuttgart and Zürich, promising nights filled with rhythm, emotion and that unmistakable flamenco fire.
🎟️ Tickets and full tour dates are available here: Get tickets & tour info
