This rare live recording of Alfonso Córdoba “El Brujo” performing “La Garza y el Cocodrilo” was captured in 1999 in Quibdó, Chocó, as part of the documentary Rapsodia Negra by Lucas Silva (Palenque Records) and Hollywoodoo Films. Filmed by Gerardo Otero, the footage provides a unique glimpse into Córdoba’s stage presence and artistry.

A pivotal figure in Colombia’s Pacific music scene, Córdoba was known for his fusion of traditional son cepillao, currulao, and aguabajo with salsa, bolero, and Afro-Caribbean influences. His dynamic performance style, often compared to James Brown’s, brought an electrifying energy to his compositions, making him a standout interpreter of the region’s musical traditions.

Beyond music, Córdoba was a storyteller, instrument maker, and carnival costume designer, earning him the nickname El Da Vinci Negro. His lyrics often explore themes of Afro-Colombian identity, migration, and social struggles, making him a crucial figure in preserving the region’s cultural heritage.

You can find out more about Rapsodia Negra and Alfonso Córdoba’s legacy HERE