Sabicas

Sabicas (Agustín Castellón Campos) was a Spanish flamenco guitarist of Romani origin, born in Pamplona on March 16, 1912, and died in New York City on April 14, 1990. He began playing guitar at age five and made his debut at seven. Influenced by Ramón Montoya, Sabicas developed his unique style through collaborations with prominent cantaores. During the Spanish Civil War, he fled to Mexico in 1936 with dancer Carmen Amaya. In Mexico City, he married Esperanza González Erazo and had four children: Maricruz (1944), Carlos (1946), Agustine (1952), and Margaret (1956). Sabicas later settled in New York, forming a long-term friendship and business partnership with guitarist Rolando Valdés-Blain. He introduced flamenco to international audiences, known for his exceptional technical skills, including fast picados, arpeggios, and perfect rhythm.

Sabicas was also a renowned composer, influencing modern flamenco artists like Paco de Lucía. His extensive discography includes collaborations with Carmen Amaya, Dolores Vargas, and Adela la Chaqueta, among others. Sabicas performed in various settings, from traditional flamenco venues to innovative rock encounters. He passed away in New York at 78 due to complications from pneumonia and strokes.