Ismael Ruiz Hernandez, known as Maelo, was born on October 22, 1966, in New York before moving back to Puerto Rico with his family at a young age. Starting his music education at 16, Maelo honed his singing skills at La Escuela Libre de Musica de Caguas under Juan Pacheco's guidance. At 19, he began his professional career as the lead vocalist for Pedro Conga y Su Orquesta Internacional, recording four albums during his seven-year tenure, including the successful track "No Te Quites la Ropa."
Maelo's solo career took off with his debut album "Solo," reaching number one in Latin America. His subsequent releases, "Experiencia" and self-titled album "Maelo Ruiz," garnered international acclaim, expanding his fan base across Europe, Mexico, and the southwestern U.S. Signing with Codiscos in 2003, Maelo continued his musical journey with successful albums like "Otra Vez Maelo" and "Regálame una Noche."
