Gaby Moreno and Oscar Isaac Recreate the Guatemalan Classic ‘Luna De Xelajú’
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- 12 Jun 2023
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In the 1940s, Paco Pérez, a renowned composer and guitarist from Guatemala, created a beautiful waltz called "Luna De Xelajú." This melodic masterpiece gained such immense popularity that it is now considered Guatemala's second national anthem. Over the years, singer-songwriter Gaby Moreno has cherished this song and has been performing it since her teenage years. On several occasions, she has had the privilege of sharing the stage with the talented actor and musician Oscar Isaac, where they performed this beloved composition together.
To honor their shared heritage, Moreno and Isaac recently decided to release an acoustic rendition of "Luna De Xelajú." They accompanied the release with a captivating music video, capturing them singing on an intimate, empty stage at the Palace Theater in Los Angeles. Moreno describes the recording of the track as a way to pay homage to their motherland.
"We have performed this song live together several times, and it has always been a truly special experience. Like me, this song holds deep meaning for [Oscar] as it honors his Guatemalan roots and family. I am an avid admirer of his talent as a singer and guitarist," shares Moreno with Rolling Stone.
Isaac further emphasizes that their version of "Luna De Xelajú" symbolizes their connection as both friends and artists. "Every time Gaby and I come together to sing, it feels like coming home. There is a gentle synchronicity that arises between us, which is incredibly fulfilling. She is an extraordinary talent and a dear friend who consistently inspires me both as an artist and as a human being," expresses Isaac.
This duet will be featured on Moreno's upcoming project, X MÍ (VOL. 1), slated for release on May 5 through Cosmica Artists. This album marks Moreno's first venture into a fully acoustic sound, comprising six original songs she wrote and composed, in addition to the remarkable cover of "Luna De Xelajú." "With this album, I wanted to return to the essence of the songs and capture their rawness as soon as I finished writing them. You will only hear the guitar and my voice. It is my most personal and intimate album to date," she reveals.
