This new version of the Mexican classic marks a new reunion between two salsa greats, whose musical histories have been intertwined for more than four decades.
Don Perignon, renowned for his mastery as a timbalero, orchestra director, and music producer, led the group that accompanied Andy Montañez from 1981 to 1989.
A golden era that left its mark on the history of the genre. Today, the two artists join forces again to pay tribute to their roots, their friendship, and the work they did together, merging the elegance of “La Bikina,” now sporting a Caribbean outfit.
This single also brings with it the announcement of a new and upcoming production by Don Perignon and La Puertorriqueña: number fourteen (14).
The history of the song dates back four decades, when Don Perignon requested a special arrangement for “El Niño de Trastalleres” to perform in his performances.
However, the song was never recorded. Thus, this release celebrates 60 years since the song was composed, 45 years since Don Perignon accompanied Andy Montañez with his orchestra, and 40 years since the original arrangement was made by Caguas pianist and composer Domingo García. For the occasion, this arrangement has been adapted to include the customary trombones that distinguish the “Orquesta del Bailador.”
“La Bikina,” although registered in the name of Alejandro Fuentes Roth, belongs to his father: the great classical violinist and pianist Rubén Fuentes Gasson, a Mexican arranger, composer, and producer from Jalisco.
He originally composed the (instrumental) music for recording by Juan García Esquivel, who titled the piece “The Beginning.” The song’s popularity and the requests made by several artists to Rubén Fuentes for permission to add lyrics to the instrumental piece forced its composer to create lyrics whose title is derived from the degeneration of the English title.
From “The Beginning” to “La Bikina,” as it is known internationally. The other stories surrounding the song’s origin are just that: stories.
This release not only revives an emblematic collaboration but also reaffirms Don Perignon’s commitment to the evolution of salsa in the digital age. “La Bikina” is now available on all digital platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, and more.