Mayaguez, Puerto Rico

March 10, 1953

Puerto Rican singer Wilkins (born Germán Wilkins Vélez Ramírez), achieved the honor of being the first pop artist to perform at San Juan's Fine Arts Center. In the early '90s, his "Sopa de Caracol" became a huge success worldwide, even making the German Hit Parade. Wilkins' second smash, "Margarita," was featured in the movie Salsa, reaching the top of the most important Latin American charts. In appreciation for his contribution to his native country, Wilkins was named National Godfather of the 2000 Puerto Rican Parade. ~ Drago Bonacich