Buenos Aires, Argentina – In the midst of Argentina’s military dictatorship in 1980, a tall, slender man from Scotland and Italy arrived in Buenos Aires. Luca Prodan, a rocker, had just consumed the last of his methadone during the flight. Little did Argentina know that his presence would shake up the music scene by forming a band called Sumo, introducing the country to post-punk music, and ultimately becoming a national legend. Today, Prodan’s music continues to resonate with fans, with hundreds of millions of streams.
Prodan, with his eccentric stage presence and distinct vocals reminiscent of Ian Curtis, led Sumo to infuse post-punk with elements of new wave, reggae, and cumbia. The band quickly gained popularity in Argentina, bringing a fresh, unique sound to the music scene. Despite his significant impact in Argentina, Prodan remains relatively unknown outside the country. However, that is about to change with an upcoming biopic titled Time Fate Love, produced by Armando Bo, co-writer of Birdman.
Before his arrival in Argentina, Prodan led a nomadic life across Europe, born to wealthy parents with a controversial background. His journey to Argentina was tumultuous, yet it was there that he found a sense of freedom amidst the political turmoil of the country. Despite the challenges he faced, including struggles with heroin addiction, Prodan’s passion for music never wavered.
In Argentina, under the oppressive military dictatorship, Prodan found a platform for his music. Despite the risks involved in performing, fans rallied around Sumo, defying authorities and attending shows that defied the government’s restrictions on English-language music. Prodan’s rebellious spirit and creative energy captivated audiences, cementing his place as a cultural icon in Argentina.
Tragically, Prodan’s life was cut short at the age of 34, leaving behind a legacy that endures to this day. His influence on the Argentine music scene, along with the impact of Sumo, continues to be felt, with the band’s music transcending generations. As plans for a biopic and documentary unfold, Prodan’s story is poised to reach a global audience, shedding light on the remarkable journey of a musician who made an indelible mark on the world of music.