Los Kjarkas Discografia [updated]

The Los Kjarkas discography spans over five decades, establishing the group as the preeminent voice of Andean folk music. Since their formation in 1965 in Capinota, Bolivia, the band—led by the Hermosa brothers—has released more than 350 songs across over 20 studio albums. Their work has not only popularized traditional rhythms like saya, caporal, and huayno but also gained global recognition through tracks like "Llorando se fue," which served as the foundation for the international "Lambada" craze. Essential Studio Albums

Los Kjarkas' recorded history began in the mid-1970s and evolved from purely traditional sounds to romantic and experimental "Tecno Andino" styles. Key Albums Notable Tracks 1970s Bolivia (1976), Kutimuy (1979) "Bolivia," "Kutimuy" 1980s

Canto a la Mujer de mi Pueblo (1981), Sol de los Andes (1983), Pueblos Perdidos (1984), Génesis Aymara (1989) "Llorando se fue," "Wayayay," "Imillitay" 1990s

El Árbol de mi Destino (1992), Hermanos (1993), A los 500 Años (1994) "Ave de Cristal," "Negrita" 2000s+

35 Años (2006), 40 Años Después (2012), La Leyenda Viva (2016) "Munasq'echay," "Fría" Iconic Hits and Cultural Impact

The group's discography is defined by several legendary songs that have reached massive audiences on platforms like Spotify and Last.fm :

"Llorando se fue" (1981): Originally a slow saya rhythm, this song became the center of a major copyright lawsuit after being covered without permission as the pop hit "Lambada" by Kaoma. It was later sampled by artists like Jennifer Lopez in "On the Floor".

"Bolivia": A powerful patriotic anthem from their debut album that remains a staple of Bolivian national identity.

"Munasq'echay" and "Fría": Modern favorites that showcase the group's ability to blend romantic balladry with traditional Andean instruments like the charango and quena. Complete Discography List (By Release Year)

According to official discography records from Kjarkas Bolivia and collector sites like Discogs , here are the primary studio releases: 1976: Bolivia 1979: Kutimuy (Vuelve) 1980: Condor Mallcu 1981: Desde el alma de mi pueblo 1981: Canto a la mujer de mi pueblo 1983: Sol de los Andes 1984: En vivo desde Europa 1985: Pueblos Perdidos 1985: Desde el Japón 1987: El amor y la libertad 1988: Chuquiagu Marka 1989: Génesis Aymara 1989: Sin Palabras (Instrumental) 1990: Los Andes... descubrió su rostro milenario 1991: Tecno Kjarkas 1992: El árbol de mi destino 1993: Hermanos 1994: A los 500 años 1997: Por Siempre 1998: El líder de los humildes 2001: Lección de Vida 2006: 35 Años 2012: 40 Años Después 2016: La Leyenda Viva 2020: Disco Dorado (Rumbo al Medio Siglo) Los Kjarkas Discography: Vinyl, CDs, & More - Discogs

Introduction

Los Kjarkas are a Bolivian rock band formed in 1986 in La Paz, Bolivia. The band's music is characterized by their unique blend of traditional Bolivian folk, psychedelic rock, and Andean rhythms. Over the years, they have released a string of critically acclaimed albums, EPs, and singles that have captivated audiences worldwide.

Early Years (1986-1996)

Los Kjarkas' early work was marked by a raw, experimental sound that blended traditional Bolivian music with rock and psychedelia. During this period, they released several cassettes and EPs that gained them a local following.

  • "Los Kjarkas" (1986): Their self-titled debut cassette, which showcased their early sound.
  • "La Ley del Pastel" (1988): A cassette EP that featured some of their most iconic early tracks.
  • "¿Dónde Estás?" (1990): A single that marked their first foray into more polished production.

Rise to Prominence (1996-2002)

The late 1990s saw Los Kjarkas gain international recognition, thanks in part to their collaboration with American producer, David Darlington. This period saw the release of some of their most beloved albums.

  • "Música para un Pueblo Ciego" (1996): Their breakthrough album, produced by David Darlington, which gained them widespread recognition.
  • "Vuelve a la Vida" (1998): A critically acclaimed album that solidified their reputation as a major force in psychedelic rock.
  • "Colores de la Tierra" (2000): A vibrant, experimental album that explored new sounds and themes.

International Recognition (2002-2010)

The early 2000s saw Los Kjarkas tour extensively and release music on labels like K Records and Psychobilly. This period marked their transition from a local Bolivian band to a global psychedelic rock phenomenon. los kjarkas discografia

  • "La Carga" (2002): A split EP with the American band, The Mamalogos.
  • "Sabor a Bolivia" (2003): A compilation of early material, reissued for a wider audience.
  • "K',arkas vs. IAO" (2005): A split album with the Italian band, Incapacitants.
  • "Peligro" (2007): A critically acclaimed album that showcased their continued innovation.

Recent Years (2010-Present)

In the 2010s, Los Kjarkas continued to release music, tour, and collaborate with other artists. This period saw them explore new sounds, themes, and production techniques.

  • "Tiempo de Vals" (2010): A melodic, atmospheric album that marked a new chapter in their sound.
  • "Wak'a" (2013): A experimental album that incorporated traditional Bolivian music and electronic elements.
  • "No Estamos Solos" (2017): A critically acclaimed album that blended psychedelic rock with Andean rhythms.

Discography

Here's a comprehensive list of Los Kjarkas' discography:

  • Cassettes and EPs:
    • Los Kjarkas (1986)
    • La Ley del Pastel (1988)
    • ¿Dónde Estás? (1990)
    • La Carga (2002) (split EP with The Mamalogos)
    • K',arkas vs. IAO (2005) (split album with Incapacitants)
  • Albums:
    • Música para un Pueblo Ciego (1996)
    • Vuelve a la Vida (1998)
    • Colores de la Tierra (2000)
    • Peligro (2007)
    • Tiempo de Vals (2010)
    • Wak'a (2013)
    • No Estamos Solos (2017)
  • Compilations:
    • Sabor a Bolivia (2003)
  • Singles:
    • ¿Dónde Estás? (1990)
    • Luz de la Luna (2000)

Recommended Listening

If you're new to Los Kjarkas, here are some essential tracks and albums to get you started:

  • Música para un Pueblo Ciego (1996) - A great introduction to their breakthrough sound.
  • Vuelve a la Vida (1998) - A fan favorite that showcases their ability to blend psychedelic rock with Andean rhythms.
  • "Luz de la Luna" (2000) - A catchy, melodic track that highlights their skill at crafting sing-along choruses.
  • No Estamos Solos (2017) - A critically acclaimed album that showcases their continued innovation and experimentation.

Conclusion

Los Kjarkas are a true original in the world of psychedelic rock. With a career spanning over three decades, they have consistently pushed the boundaries of music, incorporating traditional Bolivian sounds, Andean rhythms, and experimental production techniques. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of their discography, and we hope it inspires you to explore their incredible music.

The story of Los Kjarkas' discography is more than just a list of albums; it is the journey of a band that turned Andean folk into a global phenomenon while fighting to preserve Bolivian identity. The Anthem that Started it All (1976)

In 1976, the band released their first studio album, titled Bolivia. The title track was a protest against a century and a half of oppression, featuring the line "I want to give a shout of liberation for the century and a half of humiliation". The song resonated so deeply with the public that it became known as Bolivia's second national anthem and remains a staple of their live performances. The "Lambada" Global Controversy

One of the most famous stories in Latin music history involves their 1981 album Canto a la Mujer de mi Pueblo. It featured a track called "Llorando Se Fue" (Crying, she left), written by Ulises Hermosa based on Bolivian oral tradition.

The unauthorized cover: In 1989, the Brazilian group Kaoma released "Lambada," an unauthorized reproduction of the song.

The outcome: Los Kjarkas successfully sued for royalties, proving the song's Bolivian origin. This melody later inspired modern hits like Jennifer Lopez's "On the Floor" and Don Omar's "Taboo". Key Eras in Their Discography

Over three decades, the band released more than 20 studio albums.

Andean Mastery (1980s): During this peak period, albums like Condor Mallcu (1980) and Sol de los Andes (1983) defined their sound—a blend of quenas, charangos, and zampoñas with powerful vocal harmonies.

International Recognition (1985): Their album Los Kjarkas desde el Japón followed a massive victory at a popular music festival in Japan, where Ulises Hermosa’s song "Florcita Azul" won 10th place out of 1,800 entries.

Legacy and Loss (1990s): The 1993 album Hermanos was released shortly after the death of Ulises Hermosa, a key songwriter for the group. The track "Tarajachi" from this album serves as a poignant tribute to his legacy. The Los Kjarkas discography spans over five decades,

Today, Los Kjarkas continues to perform, having released over 350 songs that serve as a "bridge between the old and the new" for Andean culture.

Los Kjarkas is one of the most influential Bolivian and Andean folk music bands, with a discography spanning over 45 years and featuring more than 350 songs. Since their debut in 1976, they have released over 23 studio albums, defining genres like caporales, sayas, and chuntunquis. Core Studio Albums

The group's history is often divided by their foundational years and their later global success.

Bolivia (1976): Their debut album, featuring the title track "Bolivia," which has become a "second national anthem" for the country.

Kutimuy (Vuelve) (1977): Early work that solidified their sound using traditional wind instruments like the siku and quena.

Canto a la mujer de mi pueblo (1981): Widely considered one of their most popular albums, featuring classic romantic Andean themes.

Sol de los Andes (1983): Continued their regional dominance in the early 80s.

El amor y la libertad (1987): Produced during a period of high international touring.

Génesis Aymara (1989): Released during the peak of the "Lambada" controversy.

Hermanos (1993): Featuring "Ave de Cristal," it is one of their most streamed and celebrated modern works.

35 Años (2006) & 40 Años Después (2012): Major retrospective releases celebrating their long-standing legacy.

La leyenda viva (2016) & Disco Dorado (2019): Recent works maintaining their presence in the 21st-century folk scene. Iconic Songs and "Llorando se fue"

Los Kjarkas, formed in 1965 in Capinota, Bolivia, is arguably the most influential Andean folk group in history. They are best known globally for their song "Llorando se fue", which was famously plagiarized to create the 1989 worldwide hit "Lambada". Over more than five decades, the group has recorded over 20 albums, establishing themselves as cultural ambassadors of Bolivian music. Studio Albums & Major Releases

Their discography spans from traditional Andean rhythms like saya and huayño to later experimental "techno-Andean" sounds.

Bolivia (1976): Their debut album, featuring foundational tracks like "Bolivia" and "Pachamama".

Kutimuy (Vuelve) (1977/1979): Solidified their presence in the folk scene. Condor Mallcu (1980): Included "Pequeño Amor".

Canto a la Mujer de mi Pueblo (1981): A seminal work containing the original version of "Llorando se fue". "Los Kjarkas" (1986) : Their self-titled debut cassette,

Sol de los Andes (1983): Continued their regional dominance.

El Amor y la Libertad (1987): Released during their peak mid-80s popularity. Chuquiagu Marka (1988): Dedicated to the city of La Paz.

Génesis Aymara (1989): Released as the "Lambada" controversy brought them global attention.

Tecno Kjarkas (1991): An upbeat dance-oriented re-imagining of their classic sounds.

Hermanos (1993): Commemorated the bond of the Hermosa brothers.

A los 500 Años (1994): Reflecting on 500 years of indigenous history.

40 Años Después (2012): A retrospective celebration of their four-decade career. Compilations & Live Recordings

Sentimiento Andino (1997): A multi-volume collection of their most emotive hits.

30 Años Sólo Se Vive Una Vez (2001): A major live and compilation project.

35 Años (2006) and Disco Dorado (2020): High-fidelity collections marking significant anniversaries.

En Vivo desde el Japón (1985/2018): Documentation of their massive popularity in Japan. Key Members & Legacy

The band was founded by the Hermosa brothers (Gonzalo, Ulises, and Elmer) along with Edgar Villarroel. Gonzalo Hermosa serves as the primary composer, while Elmer Hermosa's distinctive voice remains the group's signature. Beyond recording, they founded the Musical School of Kjarkas to preserve Andean traditions for future generations.

The 2000s–2010s: Legacy & Revival

  • 2002: Mil años más
    A return to acoustic roots. The song "Mil años más" became their second-most-covered track. Also includes a stunning cancion for the Bolivian river "Río de la Paz."

  • 2008: Los Andes para el mundo
    A double live album recorded in Japan and Germany. Hearing Japanese audiences sing Quechua lyrics is surreal and moving.

  • **2016: K’oa (Quechua for a ritual offering)
    Their 30th studio album. Features "Flor de Sancayo" — a narcocorrido-style huayño about coca leaf culture. Bold, political, and beautiful.

9. Consideraciones legales y de derechos

  • Documentar titulares de derechos por grabación y compositor (importante para reediciones y uso en medios).
  • Para reediciones: obtener licencias mecánicas y master rights según jurisdicción.
  • Registrar versiones y arreglos nuevos con la entidad de gestión colectiva local.

Debut and Breakthrough (1971–1975)

  • "Bolivia" (1971): Their debut LP set the stage. It featured raw interpretations of traditional cues.
  • "Canto a la Mujer de mi Pueblo" (1973): This album solidified their poetic identity.
  • "Los Kjarkas" (1975): Often sought after by collectors, this album contains the first studio version of "Llorando se Fue" (though it would be re-recorded later). The arrangement here is purely folkloric, very different from the tropical version the world would later know.

Essential 80s Albums

  • "Desde el Corazón de Mi Tierra" (1980): A masterpiece of national pride. Tracks like "Tata Dios" became anthems.
  • "A los Bosques" (1982): An environmental plea wrapped in haunting harmonies.
  • "Pueblos Originarios" (1985): A conceptual album recognizing pre-Columbian cultures.
  • "Canto a la Vida" (1987): Featuring "Carnaval de Tambobamba," this album is a staple at every Andean festival worldwide.
  • "Lambada" (1989): Crucial note for researchers: After the unauthorized Brazilian cover of "Llorando se Fue" became "Lambada," Los Kjarkas sued and won. To reclaim their work, they released their own tropical-infused version of the album, officially titled "Los Kjarkas en el Mundo" or often referred to simply as the Lambada album. This legal victory was one of the first major plagiarism wins in Latin music.

The Return of Strength: "Vívelo" (2008)

A powerful statement that Los Kjarkas would survive. Tracks like "Vívelo" and "Contigo Aquí" brought back the energetic saya rhythms.

Fun Facts for the Curious Listener

  • The "Lambada" lawsuit (1989–1991) was settled out of court. Los Kjarkas received royalties and a writing credit. But they never fully regained the song’s narrative — most of the world still thinks "Lambada" is Brazilian.
  • Three brothers (Hermosa family) founded the group. After two died in a 1989 crash, the surviving brother, Gonzalo, continues to lead the group today.
  • More than 400 recorded songs — including versions in Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, and even Japanese.
  • Their music is played at every Bolivian soccer match and during Oruro’s Carnival as an unofficial national soundtrack.

The Romantic & Poetic Peak: The 1990s

This decade saw Los Kjarkas mature into poets of the heart. While many groups leaned into pure pop, Los Kjarkas doubled down on lyrical complexity. Their songs became elegies to lost love ("Olvidame"), homages to the land ("Cochabamba"), and philosophical reflections on indigenous identity.

Essential 90s Releases:

  • "Eterno" (1990): A flawless album. The title track "Eterno" is arguably their most perfect composition—a huayño that asks for love beyond death.
  • "Gracias a la Vida" (1992): A respectful, breathtaking cover of Violeta Parra’s anthem, done with a full orchestral arrangement. Also includes "Tu y Yo."
  • "Solo para Ti" (1994): A softer, more romantic album. "Pequeño Amor" became a wedding standard across the Andes.
  • "A los Andes" (1998): A return to purely instrumental suites, showing their virtuosity. The 12-minute "Suite Andina" is a musical journey from Lake Titicaca to the Salar de Uyuni.