Granada (song) facts for kids

"Granada" is a very famous song written in 1932. A talented Mexican composer named Agustín Lara created it. The song is all about the beautiful Spanish city of Granada. It has become a classic song, loved and performed by many artists around the world.

The most popular versions include the original with Spanish lyrics by Lara. These are often sung in an opera style. There is also a popular version with English lyrics written by an Australian lyricist named Dorothy Dodd. Many people also enjoy instrumental versions of "Granada" in different styles like jazz, pop, easy listening, flamenco, or rock. Other English versions exist, but they are not as common. An Italian version was written in 1954 by Enzo Luigi Poletto [it]. You can also find versions in German and other languages.

Many singers have recorded "Granada." It is a special song for José Carreras. Other famous singers who have performed it include Plácido Domingo, Frankie Laine, Jorge Negrete, Mario Lanza, Bing Crosby, and Frank Sinatra. It has been sung in Italian by Claudio Villa and in German by Fritz Wunderlich. The Spanish pop duo Baccara also sang it. During their international tour, "Granada" was the only song that all three famous tenors—Plácido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, and José Carreras—each performed as a solo in different concerts.

In 1997, the City Council of Granada officially made a version of this song its anthem. Professor D. Luis Megías Castilla adapted this special version.

The Song's Words

Agustín Lara's original Spanish lyrics describe the city of Granada. They talk about it as a "dreamed land" and a "flower of melancholy." The lyrics also mention Granada's bullfights and its "Moorish eyes," referring to the city's rich history. The song describes Granada as a "rebellious and gypsy" place, covered in flowers. It also calls the city a "juicy apple" that speaks of love. The singer says he has nothing else to give Granada but a "bouquet of roses."

Here is how Dorothy Dodd's English version begins:

Many Recorded Versions

Many artists have recorded "Granada" over the years. This shows how popular and timeless the song is. Here are just a few examples of the many versions:

See also

In Spanish: Granada (canción) para niños