In an exclusive interview, Ricky Martin opens up about family, balance, and bringing la vida loca energy to Saadiyat Nights
Before Ricky Martin steps on stage this weekend, his dressing room will be quietly waiting. Room temperature water. Tea. Fresh towels. A mat for stretching. Incense in the air. No drama, just calm before the crowd leans in to the la vida loca energy Ricky Martin brings. The kind that loosens hips, lifts hands, is joyful and completely irresistible.
These dressing room requirements are some details he shares with What’s On ahead of his Saadiyat Nights performance. This Saturday, the global pop icon returns to the capital, and if his past shows are anything to go by, consider this your warning to stretch, hydrate, and warm up your vocal cords. Singalongs will be loud. Dancing will be non-negotiable.
Ahead of the show, What’s On Abu Dhabi caught up with Ricky Martin to talk family, balance, and the song that still refuses to grow old.
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What has been your most memorable moment or experience in the UAE, and where was this?
I would say that anytime I get to perform in the UAE is an experience in itself. I love the energy the audience brings to my concerts, they’re always ready to join in on the fun. But if I had to name one moment, the concert at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai was incredible. Coming here has also allowed me to meet wonderful people who have become close friends, and I truly feel a strong connection with the UAE, one that I hope continues to grow in the coming years.
Do you have a pre-show routine that you follow? If so, what is it?
After I do the soundcheck, I go back to my dressing room to stretch, do vocal exercises, check the final details of the show. After, I get dressed and it’s showtime.
This year has been named “Year of the family” in the UAE. What’s one simple family ritual that matters to you, no matter where you are in the world?
It’s very simple, being with my kids is what keeps me happy and grounded. I have two teenage boys and a 5- and 6-years-old, so the rituals are not the same for all of them, regardless, as long as we are together that’s all it matters to us.
’Livin’ la Vida Loca’ is over 25 years old, and it still gets people on their feet. When you perform it today, what do you feel?
It brings me so much joy. I’m grateful that my music moves people and inspires them to dance and sing along. Seeing that while I’m performing is one of the best things this career has brought me. I never get tired of it, and I don’t take it for granted.
If you could choose one song from your catalogue to soundtrack Abu Dhabi, which would it be and why?
Interesting question. I would probably say Vente Pa’Ca just because it’s a very inviting and energetic song.
Your songs are full of passion, rhythm, and joy. Off stage, what’s something that brings you the same kind of pure happiness?
My kids, music, my friends, a good conversation, a good meal, traveling, just to name a few.
When you were honoured as a Latin Icon at the VMAs, what was the first emotion you felt? And what does this recognisation mean to you?
Gratitude. I’ve been doing this since I was 12 years old, and to stand on that stage and get that recognition was really special. I could not have done it without my fans or my team. It takes hard work, discipline and sacrifice to have this career for this long and I just can’t thank people enough for supporting me through all of it. It means the world.
When you first sang ‘Livin’ la Vida Loca’, what did that phrase mean to you back then, and how does it resonate with you now?
It has not changed. I think the universal meaning of that phrase is to have a great time and not caring what people say, and that applies at any time and place. That’s the beauty of it and what has made it timeless.
If ‘la vida loca’ is the crazy, irresistible life we all flirt with, what does living la vida tranquila look like for you these days?
I’ve always been a very chill guy. I like to have a great time like everybody else but I also enjoy the quiet moments. Learning to enjoy both lifestyles is a great sense of balance.
Ricky Martin performs at Saadiyat Nights this Saturday. Be prepared for nostalgia, passion, and to sing every word like it is 1999 all over again.
The Details:
Location: Saadiyat Nights, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi
Time: doors open 6pm
Cost: From Dhs295 available at Ticketmaster
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