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Tonito KaratonePunk singer
Country:
 Spain |
Content:
- Biography of Tonino Carotone
- Early Life and Political Activism
- Life in Prison
- Meeting Manu Chao
- The Appeal of Street Performances
- Political Stances and Promotions
- Conclusion
Biography of Tonino Carotone
IntroductionTonino Carotone is a Spanish singer and songwriter known for his unique style of "Spanish punk." He is an anti-militarist and anti-globalist who prefers drinking sangria over water. In addition to his musical career, Carotone is also a political figure in his homeland.
Early Life and Political Activism
In 1990, Carotone formed the band The Huajalotes and gained recognition for his views on certain aspects of Spanish politics. He wrote a dangerous song called "Insumision," which led him straight to imprisonment. One version of the story suggests that he was imprisoned for refusing military service due to his ideological beliefs. Carotone spent a year in jail, during which he continued to write songs and improve his guitar skills. He performed for his "cellmates" as he was constantly transferred from one prison to another.
Life in Prison
Despite being confined, Carotone found inspiration in the prison environment. He stated that life outside prison is much faster and chaotic, with numerous thoughts passing by. In contrast, in prison, all his thoughts and feelings were with him, making him feel even freer than in ordinary life.
Meeting Manu Chao
Carotone met Manu Chao in Barcelona in the early 90s, even before his time in prison. They later met again in Carotone's village near Granada and started playing together on the streets for the pure pleasure of it. They eventually collaborated on each other's albums. One memorable incident occurred during an album recording session when they got drunk on sangria and found themselves lying upside down, completely disoriented in the studio.
The Appeal of Street Performances
Carotone recalls how people would gather on the streets to listen to their punk music. Some even danced to their tunes. Carotone emphasizes that they played for the enjoyment of themselves and others, not for money. He criticizes the current market saturated with artificial music, blaming the dominance of commercial pop groups. He believes that genuine musicians often lack the promotion they deserve.
Political Stances and Promotions
Carotone shares Manu Chao's anti-globalist principles and refusal to engage in certain actions for political reasons. He declined an invitation to perform at a concert dedicated to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, as he does not believe in their work. He also refrains from participating in the Day of Hispanidad, a celebration he opposes due to the treatment of Native Americans by the Spanish. However, Carotone admits that he occasionally engages in promotions, wanting his music to reach the right audience.
Conclusion
Tonino Carotone's unique blend of Spanish punk and his anti-militarist views have made him a prominent figure in the music industry. Despite facing imprisonment and taking a stand against certain events and organizations, Carotone remains committed to delivering his music to those who appreciate it.
