Quilapayún is a Chilean folk music group that has played a significant role in the Nueva Canción Chilena movement, a genre and cultural movement that gained prominence in the 1960s. The group, formed in the mid-1960s, became closely associated with the political and social changes that took place during the presidency of Salvador Allende and the Popular Unity government.

Throughout its over forty-year history, Quilapayún has undergone numerous changes in both its lineup and the themes of its music. The group spent a considerable period in exile in France following the 1973 military coup in Chile, which overthrew Allende's government. This exile significantly influenced their music and their activism.

Over time, internal disagreements led to a division within the group, resulting in two distinct factions: Quilapayún-Histórico, based in Chile, and Quilapayún-France, based in France. This split was marked by legal disputes over the rights to the group's name.

Early History and Formation

Quilapayún was formed in 1965 by Julio Numhauser and brothers Julio and Eduardo Carrasco. The name Quilapayún, meaning "three bearded men" in the Mapuche language, reflected the group's folk roots. They initially gained recognition at the Universidad de Chile in Valparaíso, under the guidance of their first musical director, Ángel Parra, son of the renowned folk musician Violeta Parra.

In 1966, Quilapayún began to attract attention with their distinctive Andean music and the black ponchos that became their trademark. They won their first award, La Guitarra de Oro (The Golden Guitar), and recorded their first song, "El Pueblo," under the direction of Ángel Parra.

The group forged a strong connection with Víctor Jara, one of Chile's most influential folk singers, who became their musical director and significantly shaped their style and stage presence. Together, they recorded several albums, including their debut, Quilapayún, and Canciones Folklóricas de América.

Political Engagement and Exile

Quilapayún's music became increasingly political, especially with the release of albums like X Vietnam (1968) and Basta (1969), which reflected their commitment to internationalism and socialist ideals. Their work during this period aligned closely with the broader goals of the Nueva Canción Chilena movement, which sought to use music as a tool for social change.

After the 1973 military coup, Quilapayún was forced into exile in France, where they continued to produce music and engage in political activism. One of their most significant works from this period is the album Santa María de Iquique (1970), which commemorates a tragic massacre in Chilean history.

Later Years and Division

In the late 1980s, internal conflicts led to a split within Quilapayún, resulting in two separate groups claiming the name. Legal battles ensued, with the Chilean courts eventually granting the exclusive rights to the name "Quilapayún" to the group led by Eduardo Carrasco.

Despite these challenges, both factions of Quilapayún have continued to perform and record music, celebrating their shared legacy and influence on Chilean and Latin American music.

Notable Members and Legacy

Key members of Quilapayún have included Eduardo Carrasco, Guillermo "Willy" Oddó, and Hugo Lagos, among others. The group has been instrumental in shaping the Nueva Canción Chilena movement and remains an enduring symbol of resistance and cultural identity.

Quilapayún's discography is extensive, featuring both studio and live albums that capture their evolution as artists and their deep connection to the social and political struggles of their time.