This is one of Galicia’s most exemplary songs, with its 19th century music and poetry, based on traditional folk themes. The poet, considered the best of her time in Spain is Rosalía de Castro; a fundamental figure in the roots of Galician Literature.

Carlos has recorded many of her poems as songs, often offering her books as presents, as seen in this photo with Marianne Faithfull.

Negra Sombra remained a repertoire for classical musicians and choirs, a bit old fashioned. Rosalia sang and played several instruments, not far from what modern singer -songwriters do, therefore Carlos wanted to bring it back to popular music. This has become THE version, with Spanish/Galician rock singer Luz Casal and Ry Cooder. See them at the recording.

Cooder recorded a second track for Carlos’s album “Two Shores”, another Galician 19th century tune with a Mexican feel, accompanied by Javier Colina on the double bass.

Cooder came to Madrid to record on two conditions: to go and see Goya’s paintings in El Prado Museum and to collect a Cuban “tres” guitar brought to him from Havana!