José Antonio Larra aga Etxabe, known artistically as Urko , is a prominent Basque singer-songwriter born on March 12, 1948, in Donostia , Gipuzkoa. His musical career has been fundamental in the evolution of music in Basque and in the cultural and political vindication of the Basque Country.
Beginnings and musical career
Urko began his artistic career in local radio competitions, singing in Ángel Bengoechea's La Voz de Guip zcoa competitions, and was part of the rock group Los Corsarios , where he performed songs in Spanish and English. In the 1970s, at the end of the Franco dictatorship, he joined the Basque protest song movement, composing and singing in Basque. His first concert took place in 1974 in the Plaza de la Trinidad in San Sebastián, marking the beginning of his commitment to music as a tool of political and cultural expression. He participated, along with other artists and Telesforo Monzón, in the visit to the confined on the island of Yeu.
Cultural impact and discography
Urko belongs to the generation after the Ez Dok Amairu collective, along with artists such as Gorka Kn rr, Antton Valverde and Pantxoa eta Peio. His recording work includes emblematic albums such as Sakonki maite zaitut Euskal-Herria (1976), Hemen gaude (1977), Gabriel Aresti (1978), Gure lagunei (1978), Goiherri (1979), Biltzen (1980), Donosti Maitia (1983), Kaioan amodioa (1984), Lasai and Donosti Maitia 2 (1986). Songs like Gu euskaraz ( We in Basque ) became popular anthems for promoting the use of Basque.
In his early works, Urko addressed political and social themes, including tributes to historical figures and political prisoners. Starting in 1978, he began incorporating elements of rock and choral music, expanding his artistic style with albums like Goiherri (1979) and Kaioen amodioa (1984).
Legacy and recognitions
Urko is recognized for having cemented a Basque cultural identity through his music. His album "Hemen gaude!!" (2003) compiled 55 songs that summarize his artistic career, while the DVD released in 2005 celebrated the 30th anniversary of his first concert. Although he temporarily retired from the stage in the 1990s, he continued to pursue specific projects, consolidating his position as a key figure in contemporary Basque music.