Náfer Durán, 1976 Rey Vallenato, dies at 93

The Colombian vallenato community is mourning the death of Náfer Durán Díaz, a renowned accordionist, composer, and the 1976 Rey Vallenato. He passed away at the age of 93 in a Valledupar clinic following cardiovascular complications.

Born in El Paso, Cesar, Durán was a central figure in traditional Colombian folklore. He was part of a significant musical dynasty, being the brother of Alejo Durán, the first Rey Vallenato in 1968. Notably, Durán served as the first accordionist for Diomedes Díaz, performing on the singer's debut album, ‘Herencia Vallenata’, in 1976.

Throughout his career, he was recognized for his mastery of the instrument, even being declared ‘fuera de concurso’ (out of competition) in 1983 by a jury that included Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez. His musical legacy includes approximately 100 compositions, such as ‘Sin ti’, ‘Déjala vení’, and ‘El estanquillo’. Funeral honors were planned in his hometown of El Paso.