Luis Enrique Mejía Godoy Marks 80th Birthday Amid Ongoing Exile
The Nicaraguan singer-songwriter reflects on a life of artistic protest and struggles for freedom.
Nicaraguan singer-songwriter Luis Enrique Mejía Godoy celebrated his 80th birthday on February 19, 2025, with a major concert titled "Una vida".
The event marked not only his longevity but also his ongoing commitment to the themes of cultural identity and political resistance in Nicaragua.
Speaking from his home in San José, Mejía Godoy expressed a desire to perform in humble public spaces like local markets, where direct engagement with working-class communities could occur.
He noted, "I hope someday to give a free concert at the Mercado Central, as it's a space that connects deeply with the people's daily lives."
This is not the first time he has taken his music into such settings.
Mejía Godoy has a history of performing dedicated concerts, including a special event for mothers in local markets during his first exile over 40 years ago, under the Somoza dictatorship that lasted from 1937 until 1979.
Mejía Godoy is currently living his second exile in Costa Rica, a result of political oppression from the regime of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo since 2018. He recalled the impact of political turmoil on his family, particularly sharing experiences from his first exile alongside his brother Carlos Arturo.
Both artists used music as a form of protest against the injustices faced by the Nicaraguan people.
Throughout his life, Mejía Godoy has utilized his craft for social awareness and activism.
Describing his music's role, he stated that while art alone may not overthrow a regime, it plays a critical part in awakening consciousness among the population.
He underscored a continuous commitment to supporting resistance efforts among Nicaraguans living outside their homeland, as they work towards freedom and justice.
Despite his steadfast resolve, Mejía Godoy conveyed a sense of resignation regarding his hopes of returning to Nicaragua.
"Perhaps I will no longer witness freedom in Nicaragua," he remarked, with an emotional acknowledgment of the pain associated with his separation from his homeland, where he maintains deep ties to his family and identity.
In a surprising turn, it was revealed that Mejía Godoy initially moved to Costa Rica at the age of 22 to study medicine at the University of Costa Rica, though his passion for music led him to abandon his medical aspirations.
He quickly became the lead singer of the rock band "Los Rufos" and dedicated himself to his songwriting career.
On June 15, 2025, in celebration of his 80 years, Mejía Godoy held a concert at the Teatro Melico Salazar, featuring special guests including his nephew Luis Enrique, known as "the Prince of Salsa," and fellow artists such as Adrián Goizueta and Perrozompopo.
The concert included performances of his notable works, including "Pobre la María," "Congolí Shangó," and several others, showcasing his contributions to music and poetry throughout his six-decade career.
The event marked not only his longevity but also his ongoing commitment to the themes of cultural identity and political resistance in Nicaragua.
Speaking from his home in San José, Mejía Godoy expressed a desire to perform in humble public spaces like local markets, where direct engagement with working-class communities could occur.
He noted, "I hope someday to give a free concert at the Mercado Central, as it's a space that connects deeply with the people's daily lives."
This is not the first time he has taken his music into such settings.
Mejía Godoy has a history of performing dedicated concerts, including a special event for mothers in local markets during his first exile over 40 years ago, under the Somoza dictatorship that lasted from 1937 until 1979.
Mejía Godoy is currently living his second exile in Costa Rica, a result of political oppression from the regime of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo since 2018. He recalled the impact of political turmoil on his family, particularly sharing experiences from his first exile alongside his brother Carlos Arturo.
Both artists used music as a form of protest against the injustices faced by the Nicaraguan people.
Throughout his life, Mejía Godoy has utilized his craft for social awareness and activism.
Describing his music's role, he stated that while art alone may not overthrow a regime, it plays a critical part in awakening consciousness among the population.
He underscored a continuous commitment to supporting resistance efforts among Nicaraguans living outside their homeland, as they work towards freedom and justice.
Despite his steadfast resolve, Mejía Godoy conveyed a sense of resignation regarding his hopes of returning to Nicaragua.
"Perhaps I will no longer witness freedom in Nicaragua," he remarked, with an emotional acknowledgment of the pain associated with his separation from his homeland, where he maintains deep ties to his family and identity.
In a surprising turn, it was revealed that Mejía Godoy initially moved to Costa Rica at the age of 22 to study medicine at the University of Costa Rica, though his passion for music led him to abandon his medical aspirations.
He quickly became the lead singer of the rock band "Los Rufos" and dedicated himself to his songwriting career.
On June 15, 2025, in celebration of his 80 years, Mejía Godoy held a concert at the Teatro Melico Salazar, featuring special guests including his nephew Luis Enrique, known as "the Prince of Salsa," and fellow artists such as Adrián Goizueta and Perrozompopo.
The concert included performances of his notable works, including "Pobre la María," "Congolí Shangó," and several others, showcasing his contributions to music and poetry throughout his six-decade career.
