La Oreja de Van Gogh

La Oreja de Van Gogh Live at Plaza de Toros de Illumbe, Donostia

Prepare for an unforgettable evening of pure pop enchantment as La Oreja de Van Gogh, the beloved Spanish pop royalty, takes to the stage at the iconic Plaza de Toros de Illumbe in Donostia on Saturday, 1 August 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of a career spanning decades, a testament to enduring musicality, and a vibrant fiesta of Spanish culture. The sprawling amphitheatre of the Plaza de Toros de Illumbe, a venue renowned for its impressive acoustics and electric atmosphere, will be transformed into a sea of cheering fans, all eager to serenade along to the anthems that have soundtracked a generation. This promises to be a night where memories are made, where the energy is palpable, and where the joy of live music resonates long after the final note fades.

About La Oreja de Van Gogh

La Oreja de Van Gogh, often affectionately shortened to “La Oreja,” emerged from the vibrant music scene of San Sebastián in the mid-1990s, quickly establishing themselves as a dominant force in the Spanish pop landscape. Formed by guitarist Pablo Benegas, bassist Álvaro Fuentes, keyboardist Xabi San Martín, and drummer Haritz Garde, their distinctive sound was cemented with the arrival of vocalist Amaia Montero, whose emotive and instantly recognisable voice became synonymous with the band’s early success. Their debut album, Dile al Sol (1998), was a revelation, propelled by chart-topping singles like “El 28” and “Qué País.”

The band’s unique ability to craft introspective yet universally relatable lyrics, often touching upon themes of love, heartbreak, and the everyday experiences of youth, struck a chord with millions. Their sophomore effort, París 49 (2000), further solidified their status, delivering anthems such as “Cuyutlán” and the universally adored “El Viento.” It was their third album, Lo que te Cuento mientras te Olvido (2003), however, that truly propelled them into superstardom, boasting timeless hits like “Rosas,” “Día 11,” and “Puedes Contar Conmigo,” all of which became massive radio staples and enduring fan favourites.

In 2007, Amaia Montero embarked on a solo career, leading to the introduction of Leire Martínez as their new lead singer. This transition marked a new chapter for the band, proving their resilience and adaptability. Leire brought her own fresh vocal style, and the band continued to release successful albums and singles, demonstrating their enduring appeal. Tracks like “El Último Vals” and “Jueves” (a poignant tribute to the victims of the 2004 Madrid train bombings) from the album A las Cinco en el Astoria (2008) showcased their continued lyrical depth and musical maturity. La Oreja de Van Gogh has consistently delivered melodic masterpieces, marked by catchy hooks, sophisticated arrangements, and a genuine emotional connection with their audience. With multiple platinum records, numerous awards, and a discography filled with iconic songs, they remain one of the most influential and cherished pop bands in the Spanish-speaking world.

Venue Information

The Plaza de Toros de Illumbe, also known as the Donostia Arena, is a magnificent multi-purpose bullring located in the beautiful city of Donostia. Constructed in 1998, it has since evolved into a premier destination for major sporting events, concerts, and cultural gatherings. Its design offers a unique blend of traditional bullfighting heritage with modern functionality, providing an impressive setting for large-scale productions. The arena’s capacity allows for a significant number of attendees, ensuring a lively and immersive concert experience. Its location within Donostia, a city celebrated for its stunning beaches, vibrant culinary scene, and rich cultural tapestry, adds to the overall allure of attending an event here. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening packed with infectious energy and heartfelt melodies as La Oreja de Van Gogh delivers a performance that is both intimate and grand. Their live shows are renowned for their vibrant atmosphere, with the band effortlessly engaging the audience, fostering a sense of shared joy and collective memory. Expect a setlist that masterfully weaves together their extensive catalogue, spanning from the early, quintessential hits that first captured the hearts of fans to their more recent, equally compelling material.

We anticipate a journey through their most beloved anthems, with guaranteed singalongs to timeless classics like “Rosas,” where thousands of voices will undoubtedly rise in unison, creating a truly spine-tingling moment. Other highlights will likely include the universally recognised “El Viento,” its poignant lyrics resonating with every listener, and the uplifting “La Oreja de Van Gogh.” The band’s performance style is characterised by its genuine warmth and engaging stage presence. Leire Martínez, with her captivating vocal delivery and effervescent personality, is a superb frontwoman, effortlessly connecting with the crowd. The musicianship is always of the highest calibre, with each member contributing their unique talent to create a rich and dynamic soundscape. Expect intricate instrumental arrangements that beautifully complement Leire’s vocals, bringing a fresh and powerful dimension to their recorded material.

Beyond the hit singles, La Oreja de Van Gogh also excels at creating moments of quiet reflection, with some of their more emotionally resonant ballads offering a chance for a collective breath and a shared emotional experience. The concert duration is typically around two hours, providing ample opportunity for the band to showcase the breadth of their artistry and for the audience to be fully immersed in their musical world. Expect a show that is meticulously crafted, visually engaging, and emotionally resonant, leaving you with a profound sense of connection and a heart full of cherished melodies. The Plaza de Toros de Illumbe, with its impressive capacity, will undoubtedly amplify the collective euphoria, making this a truly memorable spectacle.

FAQs

Q1: How long has Leire Martínez been the lead singer of La Oreja de Van Gogh? Leire Martínez joined La Oreja de Van Gogh in late 2007, following the departure of Amaia Montero. She has since become an integral part of the band, leading them through a highly successful period.

Q2: What are some of La Oreja de Van Gogh’s most recognisable early hits? Some of their most iconic early hits include “El 28,” “Qué País,” “Cuyutlán,” “El Viento,” and “Rosas.” These songs were instrumental in establishing their signature sound and catapulting them to national fame.

Q3: Will the band perform songs from their latest album? Yes, it is standard practice for La Oreja de Van Gogh to include material from their most recent studio albums in their live setlists, alongside their beloved classics. This ensures a dynamic and varied performance that appeals to both long-time fans and newer listeners.

Q4: Does La Oreja de Van Gogh often play acoustic sets or incorporate stripped-back versions of their songs during their concerts? While their live shows are generally energetic and full-band performances, La Oreja de Van Gogh is known for their versatility. They occasionally incorporate moments of acoustic performance or more stripped-back arrangements of certain songs to highlight their lyrical depth and vocal prowess, adding an intimate dimension to their concerts.

Q5: Is La Oreja de Van Gogh known for any specific stage traditions or fan interactions during their concerts? La Oreja de Van Gogh are renowned for their genuine and engaging stage presence. They actively encourage audience participation, often leading massive singalongs and interacting directly with the crowd. Their concerts are celebrated for creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere where fans feel a strong sense of connection with the band.

Q6: How has the band evolved musically since their early days? Over the years, La Oreja de Van Gogh has demonstrated a consistent evolution in their musical style, while always retaining their core pop sensibility. While their early work was characterised by a more youthful and sometimes melancholic pop sound, their later albums have showcased a growing maturity in songwriting, incorporating more sophisticated production techniques and exploring a wider range of lyrical themes, without ever losing their knack for crafting incredibly catchy and emotionally resonant melodies.