Ricardo Montaner: “There’s always room to dream”
There’s lots of activity and tension at his enormous Miami Beach home, but the singer keeps smiling and hasn’t lost his positive outlook on life. Ricardo Montaner, singer-songwriter of such big hits like “Déjame llorar”, “Soy tuyo” and various other classic ballads, simultaneously attends to the group of journalists gathered at his home to talk about his latest album, his fourteenth.
He titled it Ricardo Montaner con la (with the) London Metropolitan Orchestra Vol. 2, but quickly points out that it isn’t a sequel. “It’s really a second volume, the continuation of a project that had not been completed. I had actually begun a compilation of my most important songs with symphonic arrangements on the previous album. This album is a continuation of a project that I hope to complete in the next five years when I do the third volume, which will be the last one of the series.”
What was the hardest part of the project?
(Sighs deeply) Wow! The beginning. Also, in this second compilation, I had to deal with the fact that I couldn’t have the same producer— sadly, Bebu Silvetti passed away last year. Just getting this project off the ground was a challenge. Just imagine—we had already done three arrangements with Bebu! I almost gave up on the album because I didn’t know if I should continue without the original producer, who also happened to be a dear friend of mine. Getting used to the idea of going on [with the project] was very difficult. Fortunately, God put the master Juan Carlos Calderón in my path, and this second volume came to life.
What legacy do friends who depart leave behind?
A very important legacy, and each is different. In Bebu’s case, with whom I had a very close relationship, he left behind a lot of good memories, especially lots of laughter; he had a very unusual sense of humor and could joke about anything. On one of our trips to London, we took advantage of a free afternoon to explore the city and go shopping. Since he used to collect small antique cars, I went with him to buy several and learned something about them. We also shared some great meals in that city, as well as good wine and interesting conversation. As a musician, I should add that he left a very important legacy for Latin Americans.
Since we’re discussing the topic of friendship…when you’re famous, is it possible to have many friends?
You have many acquaintances, since fame gives you the opportunity to meet lots of people; but my friends—what I would call true friends—can be counted on one hand.
When was the last time you had an argument with one of your good friends, and who apologized first?
A few months ago, but neither of us apologized because when I argue with somebody, I stop being upset. That is precisely why reconciliations, at least in my case, are relative, because I don’t hold grudges. I have no need for apologies or reconciliations.
Do you apply that same rule with your wife?
No, I never argue with her. She is the one that fusses at me if I’m too messy, or if I leave the room in a mess and don’t pick up what I throw on the floor. I just listen to her.
And with your children?
With them, things are also different: I don’t argue with them because, regardless of what I say, they’re not going to pay attention to me. That’s why I prefer to “comment on certain things” to them instead of arguing. On their end, they know they can’t argue with me, or better said, they know they’d better not! (laughs)
Your older sons, Alejandro and Héctor, are following in your musical footsteps. Are you worried about this?
What parents don’t realize is that when our children are born, we have much more to worry about than we could ever imagine. In my case, when my sons told me they wanted to be musicians, it was very hard: I began to suffer for them because I knew everything they’d encounter. This is a very tough business. But then I see them happy after an interview…and then I think to myself: ‘Enjoy it, because you have no idea the type of mess you’ve gotten involved in.’
On the other hand, it’s wonderful that they share the same passion with me, because when we get together, we jam. We enjoy truly unforgettable moments thanks to our music.
Lets talk about everyday life. Do you have a favorite spot for writing songs, or do you compose wherever your muse inspires you?
When one writes music, anything can happen. Sometimes in the middle of a trip, while on an airplane, I start thinking up lyrics. But generally, I write while sitting on a small sofa in one of the rooms at my house. We call this area the “Moroccan room” because of its décor. Early in the morning, I like to hide away in this room to write.
On stage, before going out to sing, do you perform a ritual of some kind?
No, I have none. I pray before starting my day. Before doing anything else, I commend myself to God because I like to start off each day with the purpose of doing something that will make Him smile.
To enjoy life, Ricardo Montaner…
Takes some first-rate vacations. I love going to Maracaibo, Venezuela, not only because it’s the town where I grew up, but also because it’s a marvelous place. I especially recommend Cecilio Acosta Avenue. There, on the corner of 9th Street, they sell some cheese breads that are incredibly delicious.
I’m also aware that with each passing day, I grow more sensitive: now I analyze and appreciate things more. I stop to ponder over them. There are some days when some news or the rat race makes me sad. Fortunately, I have a great woman by my side, my wife Marlene, who’s always there to lift me up.
You’ve been married for 15 years. How do you avoid monotony in such a long relationship, especially now that marriages tend to last less time?
Knowing that there will always be tedious moments, but whether for boredom or enjoyment, it is always better doing things together. Being together accomplishes more.
Finally, what do you dream about after succeeding in love and fame in such an unprecedented way?
With or without fame, you never stop dreaming… We always wish for good health for the people we love and for world peace. In the end, there’s always room to dream of a better tomorrow.
Home (English/Español) | Current Edition | Archives | Search | Traveler's Guide | Focus On
TACA | Advertise | About Us | Contact Us | Site Index
exploretaca.com - @2004-2010 HCP/Aboard Publishing
Book your trip online now at www.taca.com or click here to locate an office around the world.