Quevedo Returns With 'El Baifo,' Prioritizing Canarian Roots Over Global Stardom
Quevedo has returned from his hiatus with his third studio album, El Baifo, a project that shifts focus from global superstardom to celebrate the artist's Canarian roots and local folklore.
Quevedo’s third studio album, El Baifo, marks a major turning point for the Gran Canarian artist. After stepping away from the spotlight, he has returned with a project focused on reclaiming his roots and moving away from the "global superstar" narrative to celebrate the culture of the Canary Islands.
Following the massive success of his previous work—which racked up over 20 billion streams—this album completes a personal evolution. While his earlier music explored the pressures of fame and his adjustment to the international industry, El Baifo turns its attention to the geography and folklore of his home. The sound blends Caribbean influences with local traditions, featuring collaborations with artists like Elvis Crespo, Tonny Tun Tun, Nueva Línea, and the folk group Los Gofiones.
The album’s title is a clever play on words, combining a local term with the English acronym "GOAT" (Greatest of All Time) to offer an ironic take on his own status. This shift in focus is also reflected in the album art by Capi Cabrera, which ditches the typical portrait of the artist in favor of geometric shapes and volcanic colors, signaling that the island itself is the true star.
The release also marks a change in strategy. Instead of focusing on major national media, Quevedo launched the album from the islands outward, using local outlets and specific television appearances. This reflects his desire to regain control of his public image after taking a break in 2024 to recover from the exhaustion of his rapid rise to fame.
Moving away from the typical themes of wealth and material success often found in urban music, El Baifo serves as a tribute to the lineage of Canarian artists who have made their mark on the mainland, such as Maikel Delacalle, Ptazeta, and Cruz Cafuné. With this record, Quevedo is not just defining his sound; he is grounding his career in his heritage, proving that even at the top of the industry, an artist can prioritize their roots over the demands of the global market.