Hubertus de Hohenlohe, the Austrian prince known for his diverse talents, has unveiled his latest musical endeavor, a single entitled "Ronda Bridge." The release has been met with intrigue, primarily due to the unexpected participation of several notable collaborators, including flamenco artist Juan Motos and the well-known personality Francisco Rivera Ordóñez.
Hubertus, who recently turned 66, is not just celebrated for his musical aspirations; he is also recognized as a composer, photographer, and ski champion. Emerging from the illustrious Hohenlohe lineage, he is the son of Wrath of Fürstenberg, who passed away just over a year ago, and Alfonso de Hohenlohe, the influential founder of the International Marbella and Cosmopolitan. The new composition premiered on February 23, 2024, during the festive program Fiesta, hosted by Emma García, and was released alongside its music video.
Among the contributors, Francisco Rivera's role is particularly fascinating. Although he is not directly singing on the track, Rivera recites poetry within the project. Known primarily for being part of the group "One and We Go," which he performs with for enjoyment rather than professional pursuit, Rivera's foray appears to connect deeply with the literary history of Ronda. Hubertus explained the connection by saying, "At the end of the video clip, Fran puts voice to some verses by Rainer María Rilke, the Czech poet who lived and wrote in Ronda more than a century ago." Rilke remains celebrated for his poetic works, and this connection adds layers to the project's artistic depth.
The track articulates not only the aesthetic beauty of Ronda, marked by the legendary bridge of the same name, but also pays homage to the literary traditions of the area. Rivera recites Rilke's poignant lines, beginning with, "Be patient with everything unsolved in your heart…" His involvement emphasizes the notion of patience and the beauty of contemplation, themes often echoed throughout Rilke's body of work.
Historically, the Hohenlohe family has shared deep ties with Ronda for four generations. Hubertus's great-grandmother, the Marquise of Parcent, was instrumental in aiding the local convent, primarily providing support to the nuns who operated there. His ancestry reflects significant contributions to the community, with his grandmother, Piedita Iturbe, having resided at the legendary Casa del Moro Rey. Even Alfonso de Hohenlohe, Hubertus's father, was known as the pioneer of red wine production from the estate El Cortijo de las Nuns located within Ronda.
With the release of "Ronda Bridge," Hubertus aims not just to celebrate his musical talents, but to instill pride and knowledge of cultural history within the younger generation. He remarked, "It has more strength and more charm than what is heard in an Ibiza disco, and I want young people to know such magical places." His intention is unwavering: creating awareness about Ronda’s heritage, showcasing the distinct cultural narratives captured through music and poetry.
The passing of Hubertus’s mother, Wrath of Fürstenberg, emphasized the importance of legacy and family history, underscoring why this single holds unique significance. Having been known as Marbella’s ‘princess,’ she navigated the intricacies of high society alongside notable figures, leaving behind a formidable legacy of her own. She died unexpectedly on February 19, 2023, after suffering severe injuries from a fall at her home, prompting her son to reflect on their familial bonds and the cultural inheritance he is eager to uphold.
Ronda’s picturesque charm, historical significance, and acknowledgment of local literary figures make the release of "Ronda Bridge" more than just another single; it is Hubertus de Hohenlohe's tribute to his roots and a bridge connecting the past with the present. With vibrant visuals from the accompanying music video and artistic recitations woven throughout the track, this project is poised to inspire audiences and preserve the rich narratives of Ronda for years to come.