Un Dos Tres Festival: A Celebration of Colombian Sounds and the Fight for Artistic Freedom

The vibrant streets of Bogotá pulsated with an electrifying energy on a sun-drenched weekend in November 2017. This wasn’t just any ordinary festival; it was Un Dos Tres, a three-day musical extravaganza that celebrated Colombian sounds from across genres and generations. But beyond the joyous melodies and infectious rhythms, there lay a deeper story – one of artistic resistance and the fight for freedom of expression in a country long burdened by conflict and censorship.

The seeds of Un Dos Tres were sown amidst a period of political upheaval and social unrest in Colombia. The peace accords signed with FARC guerrillas in 2016 brought hope for a brighter future but also unveiled deep-seated societal tensions. Artists, often the voice of a nation’s soul, found themselves grappling with the complexities of this new era.

Enter Urbana, the innovative mind behind Un Dos Tres and one of Colombia’s most prominent contemporary music producers. Urbana, whose real name is Andrés Umana, had long been using his platform to challenge norms and spark conversations through his music. He recognized the need for a space where Colombian artists could express themselves freely and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Un Dos Tres became that sanctuary. Held in the heart of Bogotá’s historic Candelaria district, the festival brought together an eclectic lineup of musicians, from established icons like Bomba Estéreo and Monsieur Periné to emerging talents pushing the boundaries of genres.

Artist	Genre	Highlight
Bomba Estéreo	Electro-cumbia	Psychedelic visuals accompanying their high-energy performance
Monsieur Periné	Swing & Jazz	Exquisite vocal harmonies and intricate instrumental arrangements
Systema Solar	Tropical Funk	Infectious dance rhythms and socially conscious lyrics

The event transcended the typical festival experience. It was a cultural melting pot, where attendees could engage in thought-provoking workshops on topics like peacebuilding through art and the role of music in social transformation. Food stalls offered a taste of Colombia’s culinary diversity, while artisan vendors showcased handcrafted treasures.

One particularly memorable moment came during a performance by the Colombian rapper, Goyo. Known for her powerful lyrics addressing gender inequality and social justice, Goyo used her platform to call for unity and reconciliation amidst the nation’s healing process. The crowd responded with thunderous applause, a testament to the power of music to transcend divisions and inspire hope.

The impact of Un Dos Tres extended far beyond the festival grounds. It sparked conversations about the importance of supporting independent artists and fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Colombia. The event served as a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for social change, enabling individuals to express their experiences, challenge societal norms, and contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society.

Urbana’s vision for Un Dos Tres went beyond simply entertaining audiences; he aimed to create a platform where Colombian artists could showcase their unique talents to the world. The festival attracted international media attention, putting the spotlight on the diverse and dynamic soundscape of Colombia. This exposure helped to break down stereotypes and foster a greater appreciation for the richness of Colombian culture.

In the aftermath of Un Dos Tres, there was a palpable sense of optimism and momentum within the Colombian music scene. New collaborations emerged, independent labels flourished, and artists felt empowered to experiment with new sounds and push creative boundaries. The festival served as a catalyst for change, proving that art could be a powerful force for social transformation.

While Un Dos Tres may have been a single event, its impact reverberated throughout Colombia’s cultural landscape. It demonstrated the transformative power of music to unite communities, inspire dialogue, and pave the way for a brighter future. The festival became a symbol of hope – a reminder that even in the face of adversity, creativity and artistic expression can thrive, offering solace, connection, and a vision for a more just and equitable world.