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Guatemalan singer-songwriter Ricardo Arjona performed May 20 at the Mayan. (Rafael Orellana/Living Out Loud LA)

Ticket winners of the new Mega 96.3’s contest got the exclusive chance to take part in Ricardo Arjona’s private concert at the Mayan in downtown Los Angeles on Tuesday, May 20, following successful shows in New York and Miami.

Previously known as Latino 96.3, Mega 96.3 recently began to broadcast with the support of international superstar Shakira. Its music is geared towards Millennials, is a captivating mix of Spanish pop hits, ballads and bachata. Mega 96.3 is the first such station in the United States. Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc., one of the most prominent enterprises operating radio stations in the country, owns Mega 96.3.

Members of the digital platform Mundo Arjona enjoyed a wonderful performance by their favorite music artist. All in all, fans had an unforgettable, up-close experience.

Arjona performed for over 90 minutes, something never witnessed before. Throughout the years, Arjona has managed to deliver regular private shows in Los Angeles, but he’s never sung from more than 45 minutes. The show turned out to be an intimate, yet  exclusive, time spent with the prolific Guatemalan singer-songwriter who sported a neo-bohemian look, with dark grey fitted jeans, semi-dark grey shirt, grey cardigan, grey hat and black boots.

Three members of his band accompanied his acoustic set: a pianist, guitarist and saxophone/clarinet player.

After his first piece of the night, Arjona went on to sing “Quesos, Cosas, Casas” and “Quien Diria” back to back, a treat the 800 fans in the audience enjoyed very much.

Mundo Arjona is a fan club the singer put together that is revolutionizing fan-artist connections. Members pay a yearly fee and have access to exclusive material, including previews of his new music, blogs, photos, videos and VIP access to exclusive clubs and private shows like the one at the Mayan. They also enjoy discounts, special giveaways, backstage access, autographed merchandise and much more.

Two of the most beloved melodies of the musical experience were “Mojado” and “Historia de Taxi.” Arjona caused controversy when he released “Mojado” in collaboration with Tejano group Intocable in 2006. The track talks about immigration and the status of a poor man traveling north to better his life. “Historia de Taxi” was the favorite of the night, as the Latin-filled venue felt was enthralled to see such a rare occasion so intimately.

Arjona is one of the most successful Latin American artists of all time. He’s sold over 20 million records, and is often referred to as the ‘Nocturnal Animal’ after his fourth album (Animal Nocturno) of the same name. Arjona’s music oscillates between ballads and pop, rock and, more recently, a cappella music. He also uses many Afro-Cuban rhythms. He’s renowned for his lyrical style and interpretations on love, rape, kidnappings, racism and immigration.

The 50-year-old closed the night with “El Problema,” “Acompáñame a Estar Solo” and “Fuiste Tú.” “El Problema” is by far the biggest hit Arjona has had during his near 30-year career. It resulted in him being distinguished more internationally, particularly throughout the United States and South America, though his presence there has always been big.

This brief tour coincides with the release of his new album, Viaje, which reached No. 1 in the United States, Puerto Rico and Latin America. The first single, “Apnea,” also reached No. 1 in Latin airplay in the states.

Viaje is the second album completely produced by Arjona’s independent label, Metamorfosis.

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