In a stunning turn of events, the beloved Spanish band La Oreja de Van Gogh is set to welcome back its original vocalist, Amaia Montero, for a new album and world tour. This announcement comes after months of speculation following the departure of Leire Martínez, who had taken over as lead singer after Montero's exit in 2007.
The news was first reported by journalist David Insua on the program Tentáculos, where he confirmed that the band is currently in the studio recording both new songs and fresh versions of their classic hits. Fans have eagerly anticipated this reunion, especially after Montero's emotional return to the stage in July 2024, where she performed her iconic song "Rosas" alongside Karol G at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
"The life has many ways of sending you its message; you just have to be attentive to it, and then it’s like riding a bike. You suddenly realize it’s as easy as looking forward without looking down, and you understand that life is the journey, not the destination," Montero shared in an emotional Instagram post following her performance.
Montero's return marks a significant moment in the band's history, as she was a founding member when La Oreja de Van Gogh was formed in 1996. Her departure in 2007 to pursue a solo career was a pivotal moment for both her and the band. Her first solo album, released in November 2008, sold over 40,000 copies in its first week, solidifying her status as a solo artist.
Leire Martínez's announcement of her exit on October 14, 2024, came as a surprise to many. The band expressed their sadness in a statement, indicating that the decision followed extensive reflection and discussions. "The decision has been hard and difficult, but it comes after a long time of reflection and deep conversations in which we have not managed to bring our different ways of living the group closer together," said the band members.
As rumors of Montero's return began to circulate in June 2024, fans speculated about her potential reunion with the band. These whispers intensified after Martínez's departure, with many believing that the exit was a strategic move to pave the way for Montero's comeback. In January 2025, Martínez herself hinted at Montero's possible return, stating, "It could be, and honestly, what will it stir in me? Surely something. If I told you no, I would be lying."
At the end of March 2025, Pablo Benegas, a member of La Oreja de Van Gogh, confirmed that the band was actively composing new songs. "We are writing songs, and for now, without deadlines and without medium-long term goals. We have been in worse situations than this, to be honest. When Amaia left, I think it was a more complicated situation, and what we did was get into the rehearsal room to write," he explained.
The confirmation of Montero's return has been bolstered by various sightings and social media posts. Photographs of her in the same recording studio as her former bandmates and even a shared car ride with Xabi San Martín, the band's keyboardist, have fueled speculation. Additionally, her cryptic social media posts referencing La Oreja de Van Gogh's songs have kept fans on high alert.
On April 2, 2025, Insua dropped the bombshell that La Oreja de Van Gogh would indeed release a new album this year featuring Montero. "This year there will be a new CD from La Oreja de Van Gogh. And of course, who sings? Amaia Montero. There will be new songs, old ones, everything. They are recording," he stated.
The excitement surrounding this reunion is palpable, with plans for a world tour that will reportedly include stops in the United States and Latin America. The band's previous performances have been well-received, particularly among Latin audiences, which has encouraged them to expand their reach.
Moreover, the timing of Montero's return coincides with Martínez's solo career launch, as she prepares to release her first single, "Mi nombre," on April 11, 2025. This duality of paths reflects the evolving landscape of Spanish pop music and the enduring legacy of La Oreja de Van Gogh.
As fans eagerly await the new album and tour announcements, the reunion of Amaia Montero with La Oreja de Van Gogh symbolizes a nostalgic return to roots for both the band and its audience. The blend of new music and familiar voices promises to reignite the passion of long-time fans while attracting new listeners to their timeless sound.
In a world where musical reunions are often fraught with tension and unresolved issues, the return of Montero appears to be a heartfelt reconnection, one that could redefine the trajectory of La Oreja de Van Gogh as they embark on this new chapter together.
