22 May 2023
Universidad de Deusto
On Tuesday 16 May, the University of Deusto hosted the presentation of the comic-book Ni ez naiz Mikel Laboa, described as a "graphic novel" by the authors. The work is an example of teamwork. Taking part in it were the bertsolari, writer, cartoonist and scriptwriter Unai Iturriaga, the writer, translator and scriptwriter Harkaitz Cano, who wrote the script, and the creator of the images, the illustrator Joseba Larratxe.
Ni ez naiz Mikel Laboa is a "non-biography" of Mikel Laboa, singer, musician, innovative creator, a key figure in the cultural life of the Basque Country. It is also a vindication of the comic as a genre of its own right", explained Elixabete Perez Gaztelu, director of the Institute of Basque Studies at the University of Deusto, who presented the event.
The journey through Laboa's universe begins in the style of a western and continues with a mixture of real and imagined characters, masterfully depicted by Larratxe, an illustrator who has admired Laboa since he was a child. The story delves into the highlights of the San Sebastian-born musician's career, from his first steps in the world of music to his recognition as one of the leading figures in Basque music.
The end of the book features a series of song references that are also included in a Spotify playlist, which can serve as a soundtrack when reading the book. This will enable readers to live the experience of reading Mikel Laboa's life in a closer and more in-depth way.
Mikel Laboa was born on 15 June 1934 in San Sebastian. He was one of the pioneers in revitalising and popularising Basque music (Euskal Kantagintza). He stood out for his unique style and the peculiar use of his voice. His musical repertoire is drawn from folk song and works by well-known Basque poets, as well as experimental works. Some of his most popular songs include iconic songs such as 'Txoria Txori' and 'Gure Bazterrak'. Arguably, he has become a major influence, a symbol of Basque identity.
