Kinito Méndez

Kinito Méndez, the Dominican Merengue singer born in Padre Las Casas in 1963, rose to fame as a member of La Cocoband in 1988, co-writing hits like "El Coronel" and "La Manito." In 1990, he co-founded the group Rikarena before forming La Rokabanda in 1992 with Bobby Rafael, producing successful tracks like "Rechenchén" and "Los Hombres Maduros." Going solo in 1995, his debut album "El Hombre Merengue" sold over 1.5 million copies, propelled by the hit "Cachamba." One of his notable works includes the 1997 tribute song "El Vuelo 587," later renamed "El Avion" after the tragic crash of American Airlines Flight 587 in 2001, which took the life of his former manager, Papi LaFontaine. Throughout the following decade, Kinito Méndez continued to release acclaimed albums like "Celebra Conmigo" (2004) and "La Fábrica" (2008).

Kinito Méndez, known for his contributions to the Merengue genre, showcased his talent through various bands and as a solo artist. His career highlights include co-founding La Cocoband in 1988, Rikarena in 1990, and La Rokabanda in 1992, each producing hit songs and successful albums. Transitioning to a solo career in 1995 with "El Hombre Merengue," he achieved commercial success with the album's lead single "Cachamba." Notable in his discography is the 1997 tribute track "El Vuelo 587," which took on a somber tone as "El Avion" following the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of his former manager. Over the years, Kinito Méndez continued to release well-received albums like "Sigo Siendo el Hombre Merengue" (2002) and "Con Sabor a Mí" (2006), solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the Merengue music scene.