MUZICI » Romica Puceanu - "Tinerete, tinerete"

Tineretea e cu haz
Batranetea cu necaz

N-am cui vinde batranetea
Sa-mi dea mie tineretea

"In November of 1996, the Romanian Gypsy singer, par excellence, Romica Puceanu, died in Bucharest as the result of an automobile accident. Greatly admired by those who knew her singing, she was, nonetheless, the unfortunate victim of a number of circumstances which prevented her receiving the acclaim which she deserved. By the 1960s and 70s she had become in Romania, the unrivaled interpreter of the cintec de pahar, that form of urban Romanian Gypsy song, a combination of Turkish and Romanian elements in a unique Gypsy setting. She possessed an exquisite voice and was singer of great sensitivity and depth. Romanian state policy in effect during most of the years during which Romica was in her prime, made it difficult for most artists, particularly Gypsies, to be heard abroad.

Within the country, Gypsy singers and musicians who chose to perform Romanian Gypsy music were never officially accorded the same recognition, recording opportunities, and promotion given to those who performed only the approved music of the state. Had Romica been allowed to perform abroad and to be recorded outside Romania, it is my firm belief that she would certainly have reached the popularity of the level enjoyed today by such artists as Cesaria Evora of Cabo Verde. Sadly, for her and for so many who might have enjoyed her, this did not happen. Romica was an incredible artist and a dear friend. I cannot imagine what we shall do now without her." - Robert Garfias

Linkuri externe:

• Despre ceasul neasteptat al mortii - Arh. Sofian Boghiu
• Tinerete fara batranete si viata fara de moarte - Petre Ispirescu