What was already a reality in practice became official this Friday afternoon. José Mercé is, from today, another Almerian. The singer from Jerez received the honorary title of adopted son of Almería in a crowded Teatro Apolo, … supported by a devoted public and many authorities. The event was chaired by the Mayor, María del Mar Vázquez, and brought together several members of the Municipal Corporation, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Ramón Fernández-Pacheco, as well as institutional representatives of all levels, cultural associations and numerous fans.
Very excited and grateful, Mercé expressed his joy. “Being named adopted son of Almería is a huge honor, because I have always felt Almerian.” He remembers his beginnings, when he was part of Antonio Gades’ company and was practically unknown in Andalusia, until Alfredo Sánchez and Gades himself lor they brought the Peña El Taranto to sing. “Since then, I haven’t stopped coming. Almería gave me the love I needed as an artist. I even have a grandson baptized here,” he shared.
As a newly appointed adopted son, he expressed his desire to sing next year at mass in honor of the Virgin of the Sea. The audience rose to their feet for a joint ovation of gratitude to the artist. Among the participants was also Tomatito, who exclaimed with a sincere “Long live Almería and long live you!”
José Mercé poses with the honorary title alongside María del Mar Vázquez, mayor of Almería, and the rest of the councilors
The mayor, María del Mar Vázquez, gave a speech through titles and verses from Mercé’s musical career. Thus, he stressed that the decision to recognize him as an adopted son was unanimous and motivated by his close and generous connection with the city: “We want José to be considered an Almerian. for the way he speaks, lives and sings on this earth for over forty years. And, addressing the artist, he added: “Here you are at home, not as a guest, but as a son; your voice will stay forever in memory of the Alcazaba, in Plaza Vieja and along our beaches. Almería does not adopt you: Almería chooses you.
The evening, presented by journalist Cristóbal Cervantes, was marked by flamenco. Sonia Miranda opened the musical part by performing several songs by Manuel Alejandro, included in Mercé’s latest album, which she will present this Saturday at the Maestro Padilla Auditorium with all tickets sold.
The event also included a video chronicling Mercé’s life and career, particularly his close relationship with Almería. The municipal orchestra, led by José Solá, performed the city anthem. The music continued with the performances of Cristo Heredia for the alegrías, Antonio García “El Genial” and Edu García for the tangos, accompanied by the guitar of José Bellido, to conclude with the popular “Aire”. At the end of the party, Sonia Miranda returned to the stage with “Procuro Olvidarte” followed by a round of bulerías in which Mercé himself was encouraged to dance.
José Mercé and Almería: a relationship that lasts
José Mercé’s love for Almería was planted and developed since 1983, when he came to sing in the club headquartered in the Arab Aljibes, the Peña El Taranto. Since this first great performance from young José Mercé In Almería, a romance was established between the artist from Jerez and the club, which was consolidated and expanded over the years.
But the singer’s relationship with Almería also offers many other milestones. José Mercé has the Golden Shield of Almería, he was a Fair Crier, he was also emissary of King Melchior in the parade of the Three Kings and formed a duo on numerous occasions with the international guitarist from Almería José Fernández Torres, “Tomatito”, making thousands and thousands of spectators enjoy the union and talent of two geniuses linked to Almería.
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