Joaquín Sabina, born Joaquín Ramón Martínez Sabina on February 12, 1949 in Úbeda
(Jaén), began writing poetry and playing in youth bands before gravitating to
Spain’s cantautor movement, where his literate, streetwise lyricism took shape
in Madrid’s song clubs after the end of Franco’s regime. His debut album
Inventario (1978) introduced his narrative style, but it was Malas Compañías
(1980)—and especially the enduring anthem “Pongamos que hablo de Madrid”—that
established him nationally. He broadened his palette with the rock-leaning
Ruleta Rusa (1984) and partnered with Pancho ...