Group 5: the resurgence of Peru’s Golden Group after losing Elmer Yaipén

In the vast history of Peruvian music, few names shine with the intensity and persistence of the Team 5. This emblematic group, whose roots sink into the fertile land of Monsefú, Chiclayo, stands as a living symbol of Peruvian cumbia, a genre that has conquered hearts and made crowds dance throughout the country. However, his path to the top was not without challenges and tragedies.

It all began in 1973, when the brothers Elmer and Víctor Yaipén Uypán decided to give life to a new musical proposal. Inspired by the echoes of Mexican music that resonated in their homeland, they named their creation Grupo 5, in honor of the groups that never arrived but whose songs were longed for. Initially, they dedicated themselves to performing ballads, captivating an audience eager for emotions and sincere melodies.

As time went by, Grupo 5 found its voice in Peruvian cumbia, a genre that was booming thanks to the work of bands like Agua Marina and Armonía 10. Their third album, “El show international del Grupo 5,” marked a turning point, fusing cumbia with elements of ballads and disco music. Since then, cumbia became the driving force that propelled the band towards new horizons.

The big goodbye

On November 9, 1999, Elmer Yaipén Uypán’s life was cut short in a tragic traffic accident. While traveling from San Antonio de Chiclayo to Monsefú, a cement truck appeared on a curve, colliding with the vehicle in which he was traveling. In that fateful moment, the voice of Group 5 was extinguished forever, leaving an unfathomable void in Peruvian music.

Monsefú and all of Peru were plunged into dismay and pain at the news of Elmer Yaipén’s death. The funeral of the “Pharaoh of cumbia” was accompanied by a crowd of nearly 30 thousand people, who mourned the departure of a musical icon and a beloved figure throughout the country.

But the tragedy did not end there. Just three months after Elmer’s death, the band faced another painful separation. Walter and Javier, fundamental members of Group 5, chose to embark on a new path, forming their own group, the Yaipén Brothers. Víctor Yaipén, for his part, had already retired from the band before the death of his brother, looking to start his own project with the Orquesta Candela.

Rebuild an orchestra

After the initial mourning and pain, Elmer Jr. and Andy Yaipén, sons of the legendary vocalist, faced the challenge of keeping the flame of Group 5 alive. With a mix of nostalgia and hope, the brothers set out to carry out the vision of his father and continue the band’s mission of offering joy and fun through their music.

The resurgence of Group 5 began with the acquisition of the rights to some songs composed by Estanis Mogollón. With this new repertoire in their hands, the band embarked on a journey of renewal and transformation, exploring new sounds and styles that captured the essence of contemporary Peruvian cumbia.

The result was an explosion of rhythm and energy, manifested in hits such as “Motor y motif”, “Te vas”, “Adiós amor” and “Qué cura”. These songs not only captured the attention of the Peruvian public, but also resonated in the hearts of Latin music lovers around the world.

One of the highlights of this period of resurgence was Grupo 5’s national and international tour. From Japan to the United States, the band took their music to new frontiers, conquering audiences and gaining recognition as ambassadors of Peruvian cumbia.

Furthermore, the collaboration with the renowned Chilean singer Américo allowed Grupo 5 to expand its influence even beyond the borders of Peru. Songs like “Morir de amor” and “Me enamoré de ti y qué” became international hits, consolidating the band’s position in the Latin American music scene.

Group 5 recharged

Christian Yaipén’s return to Grupo 5 marked a turning point in the band’s history, completely transforming the way live shows were conceived and executed. With his training at the prestigious Berklee University and his vast knowledge of contemporary music, Christian brought a new vision and renewed energy that revitalized the group and took it to new heights of success and recognition.

Since his return, Christian became a reference in Peruvian music, leading Grupo 5 towards a promising future full of possibilities. His commitment to artistic excellence and his passion for music were reflected in every concert, captivating audiences and earning the respect and admiration of critics and fans alike.

One of the highlights of Christian and Grupo 5’s career was the historic concert series celebrating the band’s 50th anniversary at San Marcos Stadium last year. For three consecutive nights, the group filled the stadium with their music and contagious energy, offering an unforgettable show that remained engraved in the memories of everyone present.

But Christian and Group 5’s success didn’t stop there. With the support and love of their fans, the band continued their meteoric rise, offering sold out concerts throughout the country and consolidating themselves as one of the most important groups on the Peruvian music scene.

2024 promises to be another memorable year for Christian and Grupo 5, with a series of concerts scheduled at the National Stadium that promise to exceed all expectations of their previous anniversary. With a repertoire that includes hits such as “El Ritmo de Mi Corazón”, “Alimaña”, “Eres Mi Bien” and “Morir de Amor”, the band is ready to offer a unique and unforgettable experience to all its followers.