In a bittersweet celebration of music and memories, Joaquín Sabina kicked off the first of ten performances on his farewell tour titled ‘Hola y adiós’ in Buenos Aires, a city he affectionately refers to as his second home. With more than fifty years in the music industry, the revered Spanish singer-songwriter took to the stage at the Movistar Arena on March 24, 2025, before a teeming crowd that hung on every word and note.
Sabina, now 76, has announced his retirement from live performances, a decision stemming not from a lack of passion but rather a desire for home life and self-reflection. “I am not retiring because of a lack of desire, but because I want to be at home and because I feel I owe nothing to anyone, not even myself,” he candidly expressed in an interview with Esquire. He plans to leave a legacy of 25 songs that he believes will outlast him, feeling that he has given all he can to the performing world.
The evening began with a heartfelt tribute to his long-standing bond with the city. Sabina recalled his inaugural press conference held at La Casona del Conde de Palermo in the '80s, followed by performances in the Teatro Ópera, Gran Rex, Luna Park, and even La Bombonera. “If you ever lose me, my friends know to look for me in Buenos Aires,” he declared, as the audience erupted in cheers.
As the concert unfolded, Sabina's voice resonated over a powerful rock band — a departure from his earlier, more intimate performances. He opened with “Lágrimas de mármol,” a poignant reflection on time and mortality, immediately connecting with his audience through sheer emotion. This was followed by crowd favorites like “Lo niego todo,” “Calle Melancolía,” and “19 días y 500 noches,” each song reinforcing his status as a master lyricist.
Sabina's performance was not just musical; it was a journey through his rich narrative and interactions with the audience. Between songs, he shared anecdotes and offered heartfelt thanks to those who have supported him throughout his career, making each fan feel seen and valued.
“This tour is a chance for me to say goodbye properly. After the previous tour, I thought it was the end, but the warmth and complicity I found made me want to repeat it,” he remarked, expressing gratitude for the experiences he has amassed over the years. Sabina's commitment to his craft is evident; he even hinted at future creative endeavors, stating, “I want to write a book of sonnets and record a new album,” planning to spend more time painting and writing.
The concert’s emotional arc also included a poignant nod to recent tragedies in Argentina, as Sabina sent “a huge hug” to the victims of the floods in Bahía Blanca, demonstrating his deep connection and solidarity with the people he has come to love over the decades.
Throughout the night, Sabina and his ensemble delivered a masterful blend of rock, poetry, and nostalgia. Each song was enhanced by visual artistry projected on screens, paying homage to both his and Argentina’s rich cultural tapestries. Moments of rock and roll vibrancy met lyrical introspections, showcasing the depth of his artistry.
As the concert progressed, an atmosphere of unity permeated the auditorium, where audience members not only sang along but also openly wept at the thought of losing such a cherished figure from the stage. The nostalgia was palpable during powerful renditions of songs like “Y sin embargo” and “Una canción para la Magdalena,” which showcased his unique storytelling ability.
At the conclusion of the show, Sabina offered a powerful farewell message: “Here comes the goodbye.” This simple statement resonated deeply, knowing that this tour marks a definitive end to performances that have shaped music in the Spanish-speaking world.
With his final bow, Sabina left the stage knowing he had made an indelible mark not only in Argentina but also across all the places he had toured. As fans shouted for more, the emotional weight of saying goodbye hung heavily in the air, a testament to a career that has given so much joy and meaning to countless lives.
In a career filled with highs and lows, Joaquín Sabina’s departure from the stage is tinged with both melancholy and gratitude. As he embarks on this new chapter of his life, focusing more on personal art and writing, his legacy will continue to resonate through the collection of songs he leaves behind, echoing through generations of music lovers.
