07/15/2025
FROM CALLAO TO OUR CAMERAS — ANTONIO CARTAGENA
We went behind the scenes with Peruvian salsa legend Antonio Cartagena to talk about his journey from police officer to international salsero.
Before the sold-out concerts, the timeless ballads, and the global chorus of “¡Muchacha!”, Antonio Cartagena was serving his country—not from a stage, but in uniform. As a member of the Peruvian National Police, Cartagena played a role in one of the most pivotal moments in Peru’s modern history: the capture of terrorist leader Abimael Guzmán. Yet even amid the chaos of that era, music was quietly pulling him in another direction.
Born and raised in Callao, a city pulsing with rhythm and resilience, Cartagena's story is one of transformation. By the 1990s, his voice was no longer giving commands—it was delivering anthems. With hits like “Niña,” “Sin Ti,” and “Necesito un Amor,” Cartagena didn’t just make music; he moved hearts. His silky tone, emotional depth, and unmistakable charisma cemented him as a leading voice in salsa romántica, resonating far beyond Peru’s borders.
At Dimelo305, we’re proud to spotlight artists like Antonio who carry not only musical talent but powerful stories of perseverance, evolution, and cultural impact. Our sit-down with Cartagena goes deeper than the discography—it’s about identity, legacy, and the road less traveled. From his days walking the beat to owning the stage, Cartagena reminds us that behind every artist is a history worth hearing.
This interview is part of our ongoing series celebrating icons of Latin music—from legends to new voices, from Havana to Medellín and beyond. At Dimelo305, we don’t just document music—we honor the culture behind it.
