A legendary Mexican singer-songwriter, producer, and actor, known for his iconic romantic ballads and charismatic stage presence, earning him the title "The Prince of Song".
José José, known professionally as El PrÃncipe de la Canción (The Prince of Song), was a Mexican singer who left an indelible mark on the world of Latin pop music. With a career spanning over four decades, José José's powerful vocals and captivating performance style have influenced a generation of Latin pop artists.
Born on February 17, 1948, in Clavera, Azcapotzalco, Mexico City, José José was destined for greatness. His father, José Sosa Esquivel, was an operatic tenor, and his mother, Margarita Ortiz, was a classical pianist. José José began his musical journey in his early teens, playing guitar and singing in serenades.
He later joined a jazz and bossa nova trio, where he sang and played bass and double bass. However, it was his solo performance of the song "El Triste" at a Latin music festival in Mexico City in 1970 that catapulted him to fame.
In the 1980s, after signing with Ariola Records, José José's career reached new heights. His 1983 album "Secretos" sold over four million units, cementing his status as a global sensation. With hits like "El Amor" and "Lo Que no Fue no Será," José José became a household name, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers.
He sold out iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall, and his music reached non-Spanish speaking countries like Japan, Israel, and Russia. His ability to connect with audiences worldwide earned him multiple Grammy nominations and recognition from his peers.
José José's music not only reflected the emotions and experiences of his time but also inspired a new generation of Latin pop artists. His influence can be seen in the work of artists like Ricky Martin, Enrique Iglesias, and Marc Anthony, among many others.
His ability to blend traditional Latin music with contemporary styles helped pave the way for the Latin pop explosion of the 1990s and 2000s.
José José's personal life was marred by struggles with addiction and health issues. Despite these challenges, he continued to produce music and perform until his passing on September 28, 2019.
Today, José José's legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and delight audiences worldwide. He will always be remembered as El PrÃncipe de la Canción, a true icon of Latin pop music.
76 Years Old
A legendary singer-songwriter who penned iconic hits like "Querida" and "Amor Eterno," blending traditional Mexican music with modern styles, earning a devoted following across generations.
Born in 1917
A legendary actor and singer who dominated Mexico's Golden Age of cinema, starring in over 60 films and recording hundreds of songs, earning him a revered status as a cultural icon.
Born in 1911
A legendary singer and actor who dominated Mexico's Golden Age of cinema, known for his charismatic performances and iconic ranchera music.
86 Years Old
A legendary figure in Mexican music and cinema, known for his iconic ranchera songs and starring roles in telenovelas and films, earning him a massive following in Latin America.