The GOAT, the King of Opera, inheritor of the crown of greatest tenor of all time, sings this Lara classic like no one else. And why not, he started singing it so young when puttering around the courtyard, everyone started calling him “Granadine.” Bravi a tutti. Paz. Plácido Domingo took the stage to sing “Granada”, a beloved song by the legendary Mexican composer Agustín Lara. This performance, alongside fellow tenors Luciano Pavarotti and José Carreras, is widely regarded as one of the defining moments of the 1990s in classical music and opera.

“Granada” is one of the most famous works composed by Agustín Lara, a Mexican composer who became one of the most influential figures in Latin American music. Written in 1932, “Granada” is a passionate and evocative song that paints a vivid picture of the Spanish city of Granada. It is often seen as a love letter to the city, celebrating its beauty, history, and the deep emotional connection one can feel when in its presence.

The lyrics, though simple, are filled with longing and reverence for Granada. The music itself is both lyrical and dramatic, with sweeping melodies that are perfect for showcasing a tenor’s vocal range and emotional depth. The song has become a staple in the classical and operatic repertoires and is often performed by tenor greats such as Domingo, Pavarotti, and Carreras, who have each made their own mark on the piece.

Domingo’s Majestic Interpretation

In The Three Tenors in Concert 1994, Plácido Domingo’s rendition of “Granada” was nothing short of breathtaking. Known for his rich, powerful voice and deep emotional expressiveness, Domingo brought an unmatched level of passion and reverence to the performance. From the first note, he captured the soul of the song—his voice resonated with warmth, clarity, and intensity, making the performance one of the most memorable of the entire concert.

Domingo’s interpretation of “Granada” is marked by his impeccable technique, control, and ability to bring out the drama in the music. The way he soared through the high notes, especially during the song’s sweeping melodic lines, was a testament to his incredible vocal range. At the same time, his ability to pull back and sing with tenderness and nuance in the quieter moments showcased his mastery of the piece. It was a perfect balance of power and delicacy, making his performance a powerful tribute to both the composer and the spirit of Granada itself.

The Three Tenors: A Historic Collaboration

The 1994 concert was one of the most celebrated events in classical music history, bringing together three of the greatest operatic voices of the time: Plácido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, and José Carreras. The concert took place in the ancient Baths of Caracalla in Rome, and their performance was not only a demonstration of their vocal prowess but also an expression of their camaraderie and shared love for music.

The Three Tenors in Concert 1994 was a monumental moment in classical music, reaching millions of people worldwide and bringing opera to the masses in a way that had never been done before. The success of the concert, which was broadcast worldwide and released as an album, helped solidify the trio’s status as global superstars and popularized opera in a way that was accessible to a broader audience.