Mérida, Mexico

December 7, 1935

Widely considered the premiere Mexican romantic composer of the postwar era, Armando Manzanero was born in the city of Mérida on December 7, 1935; after studying at the local music conservatory, he relocated to Mexico City in 1957 to pursue a career as a performer and songwriter, soon authoring the Angelica María hit "Paso a Pasito." In 1960 he issued his first solo smash, "Voy a Apagar la Luz," followed over the years to come by a string of hits including "Contigo Aprendí," "Te Extraño," "Cuando Estoy Contigo," "Adoro," "No," "Esta Tarde Vi Llover" and "Tengo." Manzanero also released countless LPs. ~ Jason Ankeny