Juan Gabriel
Volver Tour 2014
American Airlines Arena, Miami
Friday, September 5, 2014
Over the weekend, Mexican music icon Juan Gabriel performed an epic three-hour set at the American Airlines Arena in downtown Miami.
Only a few months ago, Gabriel had delayed his entire Volver 2014 tour because of health issues. But judging from the other evening's performance, one would never have guessed.
Juanga was just as healthy, energetic, and charismatic as always.
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He is one of the best-selling Latin recording artists of all time. So despite the months-long delay of his Miami arrival, the 64-year-old singer and songwriter stepped out to a sold-out arena, filled with 20,000 fans who'd been patiently and eagerly awaiting him.
Gabriel was accompanied by more than 30 musicians, backup singers, and dancers, including a full Mariachi ensemble. From guitar solos to elaborate choreography, the 180-minute show was a pure fiesta.
The Mexican divo mentioned how much he missed the shows, his musicians, the mariachis, and his fans during his recent, illness-related absence from the stage. He thanked his "fanaticos" many times, pointing out every flag in the crowd and toasting the nations of Latin America.
And to prove his gratitude, Juan Gabriel worked through a lengthy list of his most popular songs. Followers of all ages sang along to each and every classic, from "Costumbres" to "Hasta que te conocí" and "Así Fue."
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The night's most unforgettable moment was Juan Gabriel's performance of "Noa Noa."
Everybody in the arena stood up to dance as Juanga, his backup singers, and the mariachis did a complex bit of choreography. It was amazing to see how even after three hours, Gabriel never needed more than a minute's rest. And song after song, he sounded better than ever.
"Déjame vivir" was another very lively and lovely moment.
Next, Gabriel delivered touching renditions of timeless tunes, "Amor eterno" and "Abrazame muy fuerte," as images flitted across an enormous screen behind him, showing emotional moments between mothers and sons, couples, friends, and even strangers hugging each other.
During "Yo no nací para amar," we saw portraits of Juan Gabriel though time, from childhood to the present day.
To finish the night, he performed one of his and his fans' favorites, "Querida." He was overwhelmed. His most devoted fanaticos cried. And we were very happy to witness the return of a rejuvenated and energetic Juan Gabriel.
-- Luz Elena Silva
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