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Flamenco Guitarist Pepe Habichuela Dies at 82 in Madrid

other · 2026-08-04

José Antonio Carmona Carmona, known professionally as Pepe Habichuela, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 82 in Madrid due to a pulmonary illness. Born in Granada in 1944, he was a pivotal figure in contemporary flamenco guitar. His legacy includes the album 'Yerbabuena' (Nuevos Medios, 2001), a collaboration with the Indian orchestra Bollywood Strings. The track 'Oriente' from that album features lyrics that reflect his artistic philosophy: 'In Alegría street where my soul walks, some sing and others dance and I speak with my guitar, and the rhythm reaches me / Joy that comes out of me, speaks to the heart, smells of Yerbabuena.' Recorded 25 years ago, these words now serve as an epitaph for the master. Habichuela's influence extended across generations, and his passing marks a significant loss for the flamenco community.

Key facts

  • Pepe Habichuela died at 82 in Madrid from a pulmonary illness.
  • He was born in Granada in 1944.
  • He was a leading figure in contemporary flamenco guitar.
  • His album 'Yerbabuena' was released in 2001 on Nuevos Medios.
  • The album was a collaboration with the Indian orchestra Bollywood Strings.
  • The track 'Oriente' opens the album and includes lyrics reflecting his philosophy.
  • The lyrics were recorded 25 years ago.
  • His death occurred on a Tuesday.

Entities

Artists

  • Pepe Habichuela

Institutions

  • Nuevos Medios
  • Bollywood Strings

Locations

  • Madrid
  • Spain
  • Granada

Sources