Tonino Baliardo stands not only as the founder and guiding force behind the iconic Gipsy Kings but also as a globally acclaimed guitar virtuoso and composer. His signature compositions, including chart-toppers like “Bamboleo” and “Djobi Djoba,” have solidified his status as a musical luminary.
As masters of gypsy music, the Gipsy Kings have achieved remarkable success, selling over 20 million albums worldwide and earning a plethora of prestigious awards, including gold, platinum, and diamond discs. Their accolades also include a coveted Grammy Award in 2013 for Best World Music Album with “Savor Flamenco.” Tonino’s influence extends beyond music, having collaborated on notable projects such as remixing “Hotel California” for “The Big Lebowski” and contributing to “Toy Story III” with “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.”
Recently, Tonino received recognition for his duet with Takagi Ketra, earning a platinum record, and for “Ingobernable,” a triple platinum record featuring a collaboration with Tangana.
His performances have graced the stages of the world’s most renowned concert halls, from Radio City in New York to the Hollywood Bowl and Greek Theater in Los Angeles, as well as the Royal Albert Hall in London and the Olympia in Paris. Reflecting on his journey, Tonino remarked, “We started in Saint Tropez with our guitars, and since then, we have traveled around the world. Music knows no boundaries, and our music is universal.” This sentiment encapsulates the timeless allure of their music, transcending generations and cultures.
Family and tradition hold profound significance for Tonino, who has been joined by his sons Mikaël and Cosso Baliardo since 2014, continuing the legacy of musical excellence.
Today, Tonino remains committed to sharing his unique musical expression with audiences worldwide, perpetuating a legacy that bridges the past with the future.