Carlos Vives AND Shakira found massive success with the release of “La Bicicleta” in 2016. The duo charted at number one in more than 10 countries, including the US – on three separate charts – and, perhaps more meaningfully, in their home country , Colombia.
The song is the kind of swinging, upbeat summer anthem that fans have come to know and love from both artists, but it has an extra layer of personal meaning for both artists. They co-wrote the song (with Andres Castro), inspired by special personal memories of their respective childhoods in Colombia.
In this episode of GRAMMY Rewind, let’s rewind the clock to the 17th Latin GRAMMY Awards at the end of 2016, where “La Bicicleta” won two coveted awards: Song of the Year and Record of the Year. In his acceptance speech for the latter, Vives made sure everyone watching knew how special Colombian culture is to the song — and to him.
“I want to dedicate it especially to something that is the pride of all Colombians,” he said. “And this is for our cyclists, our cyclists, our cross bike riders. Our cycling culture in Colombia. Humble people, from our humblest towns, who bring a lot of glory to our country.” (It was a fitting dedication, as “La Bicicleta” translates to “The Bicycle”.)
Although Shakira was not present, Vives brought Castro and their engineer, Luis Barrera Jron stage with him and he made sure to thank everyone involved in the song.
Press play on the video above to watch Vives’ full acceptance speech and return to GRAMMY.com every Friday for more new episodes of GRAMMY Rewind.
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