The Bogotá City Council paid tribute on Monday to Morat, a band originating from the city, for their “skill, effort, and social conscience,” highlighting them as ambassadors of the Colombian sound worldwide, following their success in selling out El Campín stadium twice last month.
For this reason, they were awarded the José Acevedo y Gómez Civil Order of Merit in the rank of Silver Cross, a distinction given to those of notable importance or who contribute to the city’s heritage.
Juan Pablo Villamil, the band’s vocalist, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the group: “This is the most significant award of our career.”
Visibly moved by the award, Villamil proclaimed that their bond with Bogotá “is stronger than ever.”
The group collaborates with the Secretariat of Education through their foundation ‘Aprender a Quererte’, in an educational support project for children, which has already been implemented in Risaralda (central region) and will now be launched in the capital.
“We grew up together, as friends and Colombians, fully aware of our surroundings,” Villamil explained, recalling that their childhood took place during a “difficult time for Colombia,” which brought them even closer together.
The nomination for this recognition was initiated by Councilman Julián Rodríguez Sastoque, who, emotionally, confessed to being a fan of the group and showed “great enthusiasm” in being able to present the award.
“They have raised the profile of the city to the maximum, leaving an indelible mark on every stage they play,” Sastoque stated before presenting the silver distinctions and the ribbon with the colors of Bogotá to Martín Vargas, the youngest member of the group.
“These young people inspire every child in this city to dream and believe that valuing art is just as viable as being a lawyer, engineer, or doctor,” the councilman added.
After receiving more than fifteen million streams, the band members commented in a press conference that their goal is to continue “being loyal” to their musical style and they want Morat to be recognized as a “global Colombian band.”
EFE
image credits for this post: n.com.do
