Hailing from north-east Colombia, Ivan Villazon has created Vallenato anthems and lively melodic notes for over three decades. He debuted in 1984 with Arco Iris, a sunny folk number marked by Alfredo Gámez's sprightly accordion keys. He has refined that formula in the decades since, crafting story songs with his exuberantly booming voice and warm, inviting persona. "El Payaso de la Esquina" has a swaying island rhythm suited for a cantina dance floor, while the mournful yet resilient "No Me Pidas Que Te Olvide" gives comfort to broken hearts everywhere.