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Héctor Lavoe

Héctor Lavoe, whose full name was Héctor Juan Pérez Martínez, was a Puerto Rican singer and songwriter. He was born on September 30, 1946, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and passed away on June 29, 1993, in New York City, United States.

Lavoe is considered one of the most influential salsa singers of all time. He rose to fame as the lead vocalist for the Fania All-Stars and became a central figure in the salsa movement during the 1970s. Lavoe's powerful and soulful voice, combined with his charismatic stage presence, captivated audiences around the world.

He gained international recognition through his collaborations with renowned salsa musician Willie Colón. Together, they released several hit albums, including "La Voz" (The Voice), "De Ti Depende" (It Depends on You), and "El Juicio" (The Trial). Lavoe's signature songs include "El Cantante" (The Singer), "Periódico de Ayer" (Yesterday's Newspaper), and "Aguanile."

Lavoe's personal life was marked by struggles with drug addiction and personal tragedies, including the loss of his son and the death of his wife. Despite his personal challenges, his music continued to resonate with fans, and he remained a beloved figure in the Latin music community.

Héctor Lavoe's legacy lives on through his contributions to salsa music, and his influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary Latin artists. He is remembered as a remarkable singer and an icon of Puerto Rican and Latin American music.

Source: ChatGPT

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Album Review

Héctor Lavoe: La Voz

Read "La Voz" reviewed by Rob Garratt


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