Peruvian singer Milena Warthon has released a collaboration with Los Mirlos, one of the country's most influential cumbia bands, on a new song called "Fan" that blends her signature Andean pop sound with the group's classic Amazonian cumbia style.
Warthon, known as a driving force behind Peru's Andean pop movement, said she was thrilled and grateful to record with the Amazonian band, adding that she has always admired the group and that a strong musical connection developed between them during the creative process.
She described Los Mirlos as wonderful, lovely people whom she has had the pleasure of getting to know, including visiting their home and speaking with band leader Jorge and his sons. She said she felt grateful for the opportunity they gave her because they are legends, and called it moving that they trusted her work, describing the relationship as one of mutual admiration.
A five-decade cumbia legacy
Los Mirlos formed in Peru's Amazon region and have built a career spanning more than five decades, becoming one of the pioneering groups of Peruvian Amazonian cumbia. Warthon said the band continues to bet on new musical ideas despite its long trajectory, and she highlighted their versatility and their role as a link between different generations of Peruvian artists.
Warthon also praised the finished track itself, describing it as very catchy, fun, funny, danceable and full of attitude, saying it carries the kind of energy that is currently in fashion.
Support from the band
Warthon said that from her earliest contact with the members of Los Mirlos she received warmth and support. She said the conversations with the band went beyond the song itself, touching on music, future projects and the need to keep promoting Peruvian talent so it gains a bigger presence on international stages.
The collaboration comes months after Warthon faced criticism over an outfit she wore at the Virgen de la Candelaria festival, which she said at the time was simply an attempt by others to disrespect her.
Preparing for 'Latinchola'
Following the release of "Fan," Warthon is now preparing her next live show, called "Latinchola," set for September 19 at the amphitheater of the Parque de la Exposicion in Lima.
The show will feature several prominent Latin American artists as guests, including Maria Fuell of Colombia, with whom Warthon released the song "Cosita mia"; Nusta Picuasi of Ecuador, with whom she released "Florecer"; and Flor Paz of Argentina.
Warthon said the show will carry a lot of female power and Andean power, and that it will reach an international level thanks to the guests she has lined up.
She said "Latinchola" will also include a dance ensemble along with national and international guests, backed by a production designed specifically to convey the concept behind the show's name. The project aims to bring together music, roots and identity, while showing how a new generation is connecting with Andean culture.
The release of "Fan" also comes as Warthon prepares to fulfill what she has called a longtime dream: opening a concert for singer Zayn Malik in Lima.
