Manuel Quijano is a name both known and loved by Spanish music fans the whole world over. Until 2007, his name was expected to be followed by those of his brothers Oscar and Raul, who with Manuel formed the renowned rock en español trio Café Quijano. The band made its recording debut in 1997 with a self-titled release, primarily of Manuel's compositions. The following year the Quijano brothers toured all over Spain, performing over 50 dates in support of their new record. Manuel continued to hone his unique voice as a writer, penning over 50 songs in various styles over the course of the next two years. In 1999 his talent was recognized: Manuel was named Spain's "Composer of the Year" for his work on Café Quijano's second studio album, La Extraordinaria Paradija del Sonido Quijano. The album earned Manuel and his brothers a pair of Grammy nominations the following year, for Best New Group (Latin Grammy Awards) and Best Alternative Rock Album (Grammy Awards). Manuel and his brothers continued to gain recognition thanks to international touring and large-venue performances. In 2003, Café Quijano released the star-studded album Que Grande Es Esto del Amor!, which featured guest artists such as Celine Dion and Joaquín Sabina. Though Café Quijano were at the very heights of their popularity, having sold millions of records worldwide, Manuel sought the artistic freedom and recognition that come only with a solo career. In 2007 he released his first album as a solo artist, entitled Vidas y Venidas. The record's strong debut (immediately earning a spot on Billboard's European Top 100) served as a testament to Manuel Quijano's hard-earned reputation as one of his generation's defining voices. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez