Step back into the vibrant sounds of late-80s Spain with this far-out, irresistibly catchy tune by La Guardia. Their hit “El blues de la nacional” lit up the stage on the beloved Spanish TV show Cajón desastre, circa 1988.
This track blends bluesy vibes with Spanish rock flair, capturing the spirit of a generation cruising down the “nacional” highway of life. With its infectious rhythm and nostalgic charm, it’s no wonder this song became an inescapable anthem.
INYIM Did You Know?
La Guardia – Spain’s Road-Trip Rockers
Did you know that La Guardia took their name from a small town in Álava, Spain—but their sound traveled far beyond?
Formed in Granada in 1983, La Guardia became a defining voice of the Spanish pop-rock scene during the vibrant cultural movement known as La Movida Madrileña. Their breakout hit “Mil calles llevan hacia ti” (1988) catapulted them to national fame, but it was songs like “El blues de la nacional” that cemented their place in the hearts of fans.
With lyrics that often evoke travel, nostalgia, and youthful freedom, La Guardia’s music became the unofficial soundtrack for a generation cruising down Spain’s highways—windows down, radio up.
The original lineup of La Guardia included:
- Manuel España – Lead vocals and guitar (also the band’s frontman and one of the founding members)
- Enrique Moreno “Conejo” – Bass guitar
- Carlos Gilabert – Keyboards
- Joaquín Almendros – Guitar
- Juan Enrique Moreno – Drums
Tragically, Enrique Moreno passed away in 1994, which led to a temporary disbandment. However, Manuel España later revived the band with new members, continuing La Guardia’s legacy.
Fun Fact:
Before settling on their signature sound, the band experimented with punk and new wave influences under the name La Guardia del Cardenal Richelieu—a mouthful they wisely shortened!
Now without further ado get into the La Guardia’s groove. With INYIM throwback hit parade.
