Héctor Lavoe

Héctor Lavoe, born Héctor Juan Perez on September 30, 1946 in Ponce, Puerto Rico, emerged as a prominent figure in the evolution of Latin music from the late '60s boogaloo to the '70s salsa boom. Influenced by artists like Daniel Santos and Ismael Rivera, Lavoe's unique singing style and improvisational talent garnered him popularity among salsa fans. At 17, Lavoe left music school in Ponce to pursue a singing career in New York City, where he joined forces with Willie Colón, leading to a successful partnership spanning 14 albums.

Following Colón's departure in 1973, Lavoe embarked on a solo career, solidifying his status as a salsa star despite personal struggles. Despite setbacks, Lavoe's musical legacy endures, with his final album "Strikes Back" receiving a Grammy nomination in 1987. Lavoe's life story reflects the essence of the '70s salsa era, with his contributions alongside Colón and as a solo artist shaping the genre's sound and earning him the title "El Cantante de los Cantantes" among the Fania All-Stars.