Dreams, sacrifices, and an unwavering passion for music unite the 10 finalists of the National Song Festival. Each artist carries a unique story behind their creative vision. Today, we shine a spotlight on the brilliant representatives from Cartago, who are gearing up to captivate both the jury and the audience at the historic National Theatre with much more than just a melody.

Juan Pablo Salas: A Love Story Painted in “Blue Ink”

Hailing from Turrialba, Cartago, singer-songwriter Juan Pablo Salas is no stranger to the competitive stage. This marks his second consecutive appearance in the National Song Festival, following an impressive top-3 finish in last year’s edition.

This year, Salas returns with “Tinta azul” (Blue Ink), a deeply personal track written specifically for his wife. Through its poetic lyrics, he aims to capture the essence of a love that is both intimate and grounding.

“It’s a way of telling her that I see myself better through her eyes, that I trust her with my fears, and that it’s easier to carry any burden when there are two of us,” Salas shared.

The title, “Tinta azul,” carries a sentimental weight, referencing a color that holds a deeply special meaning for the couple. While the composition originally bloomed as a private dedication, it quickly transformed into the perfect vehicle for his return to the festival—a decision fueled not just by the competitive drive to win, but by the rich artistic growth and opportunities the platform provides.

For Salas, being a finalist is a powerful source of creative fuel. This year’s performance carries an even deeper emotional significance: he will share the legendary stage of the National Theatre with his wife, a professional violinist who will accompany him live during his performance.

Having dedicated his life to music from a very young age, Salas currently balances his time as a guitarist, singer-songwriter, and composer—a recent artistic evolution that he admits has brought immense fulfillment to his life.

Luci Castro: Finding a Refuge in the Midst of the News Cycle

An unexpected title often hides a profound truth. Luci Castro enters the grand finale with her evocative track, “Noticiero” (News Broadcast). While the title might initially sound unconventional for a musical piece, the message it carries strikes a universal chord.

Castro explained that the song explores our modern, constant exposure to negative media and how it subtly erodes human emotional well-being. In stark contrast to the surrounding noise, “Noticiero” serves as an anchor of hope, reminding listeners that peace can always be found within.

“It’s a reminder to myself that I can be my own refuge in the midst of bad news,” Castro beautifully expressed.

The track begins by laying out the heavy realities of daily negativity, but seamlessly transitions into a powerful, uplifting chorus that challenges that bleak outlook. Interestingly, the song wasn’t originally intended for a festival submission. Entering it into the running was one of the artist’s boldest creative risks, and it paid off beautifully.

Musically, the composition is wrapped in indie-pop textures, a genre choice that perfectly accentuates the introspective and vulnerable atmosphere of her lyrics.

Outside of her musical endeavors, Castro leads a vibrant life dedicated to helping others. She works at a travel agency and is a professional social worker by trade. However, art has been an inseparable companion since childhood, heavily nurtured by her mother’s family. Her passion for songwriting took structural shape during her time at the University of Costa Rica (UCR), thanks to a mentor who encouraged her to hone her voice—a calling she embraces with deep passion today.

Save the Date

The final showdown of the National Song Festival is scheduled for July 8 at the iconic National Theatre. All 10 finalists will perform live, bringing their unique stories, melodies, and hearts to the stage in pursuit of the coveted first-place title.

- Advertisement -