Damas Gratis

Argentine Cumbia Villera Band: Damas Gratis is an Argentine cumbia villera band formed in 2000 by Pablo Lescano. Cumbia villera is a subgenre of cumbia music that originated in the villas miserias (shantytowns) of Buenos Aires. Known for its raw and gritty lyrics, cumbia villera often addresses themes of poverty, crime, and social issues, reflecting the realities of life in the marginalized communities where it originated.

Founder Pablo Lescano: Pablo Lescano, the founder and leader of Damas Gratis, is considered one of the pioneers of cumbia villera music. Born in Buenos Aires in 1977, Lescano began his music career at a young age, playing in various bands before forming Damas Gratis. His charismatic stage presence, distinctive voice, and innovative approach to cumbia music have earned him widespread recognition and acclaim in the Argentine music scene.

Hit Songs and Albums: Damas Gratis has released several successful albums throughout their career, featuring hit songs that have become anthems of the cumbia villera genre. Some of their most popular tracks include "No te Creas Tan Importante", "Se te Ve la Tanga", and "La Gorra No Se Mancha", which have amassed millions of views on streaming platforms and YouTube. Their albums, such as "Para los Pibes" (2008) and "Pablo de Argentina" (2015), have topped the charts in Argentina and solidified their status as one of the leading bands in the cumbia villera movement.

Controversy and Criticism: Despite their popularity, Damas Gratis has faced criticism and controversy over the years due to the explicit nature of their lyrics and their portrayal of marginalized communities. Some critics argue that cumbia villera glorifies crime and violence, while others view it as a reflection of social realities and a form of artistic expression for marginalized groups. Despite the controversy, Damas Gratis continues to enjoy a dedicated fanbase and remains influential in the cumbia villera scene.

Continued Relevance: Damas Gratis continues to tour extensively and perform at festivals and events throughout Argentina and Latin America, attracting audiences of all ages. Their music resonates with fans from diverse backgrounds, with its infectious rhythms, catchy melodies, and honest lyrics capturing the essence of life in the villas miserias. As pioneers of the cumbia villera genre, Damas Gratis remains a vital and influential force in the Argentine music landscape, with their music serving as a soundtrack to the lives of many.