Coca Cola Flow Fest 2025 experienced one of its most emotional moments on Saturday, November 22 in Mexico City, when Carlos Vives surprised thousands of attendees with an a cappella performance of one of the most representative songs of the legendary José Alfredo Jiménez. The gesture, unexpected and deeply felt, unleashed an immediate ovation among the more than 79,000 people gathered at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, according to Ocesa figures.
The Colombian artist appeared on the Sessions Stage, an alternate stage announced just two days before as a venue for surprise performances. From there, Carlos Vives took the microphone and, before singing, said: “It is a joy to see you and I want to say something that goes like this”. He then performed “Para morir iguales”, a classic composition by the iconic Mexican singer-songwriter, with a completely a cappella rendition that immediately connected with the audience.
Ignites the audience with emotional tribute
What a surprise at #FlowFest, the great @carlosvives with all his energy and vallenato came to pay tribute to José Alfredo Jiménez. pic.twitter.com/rA2H80FvAJ
– MARIANO OSORIO (@marianoosorio1) November 23, 2025
The tribute continued when Carlos Vives shouted, “Viva José Alfredo Jiménez! Thank you Mexico!”, provoking a new wave of applause.
His performance also included some of the hits that have left their mark on Latin music, including “La bicicleta,” his collaboration with Shakira that in 2016 reached No. 1 on Billboard Latin Airplay for six consecutive weeks.
Although his name was not on the original festival line-up, the organizers confirmed that both he and his compatriots Bacilos would offer surprise performances as part of the Sessions stage concept.
Carlos Vives took advantage of this intimate space to strengthen his bond with the Mexican public.
“This is a cumbia, Mexico. What makes us Colombians and Mexicans brothers, what we have in our blood is a race”, he said before singing “Para robarte un beso”, generating a festive and close atmosphere.
Reaffirms its legacy
It's a joy to see you
Carlos Vives
The artist from Santa Marta, who at 64 years of age continues to be one of the most beloved figures in Latin music.
He appeared again later, this time on the main stage.
During Wisin’s set, Carlos Vives joined the Puerto Rican singer to perform “Nota de amor,” his 2015 hit song included in the album Los Vaqueros: La Trilogía, which originally also featured Daddy Yankee.
The tribute to José Alfredo Jiménez and the Colombian’s collaborations made it clear why Carlos Vives continues to be a cross-cultural musical reference.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
