David de la Chica, songwriter for Los Delinqüentes, has died at the age of 50
Famed Spanish musician and songwriter for Los Delinqüentes, David de la Chica, also known as Davile, passed away at the age of 50. He died on January 29, 2026, at Hospital Puerta del Mar in Cádiz. The cause of death was an acute heart attack, which occurred before a planned surgery he was awaiting due to serious health issues.
David de la Chica was born in Jerez de la Frontera, a city that became central to his creative and cultural legacy. His musical career began in the late 1990s with the group Palocortao, one of the first to combine elements of flamenco, rock, and rumba into the unique garrapatero style. Later, he closely collaborated with the band Los Delinqüentes, writing songs that became iconic on the Spanish music scene in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
David’s contribution to music is undeniable: he authored or co-authored many famous hits, including “Tabanquero”, “Amor Plutónico”, “Pirata del Estrecho”, and “Soy un limón”. These songs captured the atmosphere, rhythm, humor, and vibrant spirit of Andalusian streets and became an integral part of the region’s cultural heritage.
His death prompted an outpouring of condolences from musicians and fans. Members of Los Delinqüentes issued a joint statement expressing grief and gratitude for Davile’s creative contribution, calling him “a friend and inspiration.” Renowned Andalusian artist Tomasito emphasized that David was “a great friend, poet, and musician who left an indelible mark on rock-flamenco history.”
Although David often remained behind the scenes, his role in shaping the unique style of Los Delinqüentes and Andalusian music culture was fundamental. His work continues to influence modern music, blending tradition with contemporary styles, and will remain in the hearts of fans as a symbol of freedom, authenticity, and musical mastery.
David de la Chica’s death is a loss for all of Spanish music, but his legacy, filled with rock-flamenco, flamenco guitars, Andalusian humor, and genuine vitality, will live on forever.
