Role

:

Composer Performer

Country

:

Mexico

Birth

:

October 30, 1897 in Mexico City, Mexico

Death

:

November 6, 1970 in Mexico City, Mexico

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Agustín Lara was a Mexican composer and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of Latin American music. Born on October 30, 1897, in Tlacotalpan, Veracruz, Mexico, Lara was the son of a musician and grew up surrounded by music. He began playing the piano at a young age and quickly showed a talent for music. Lara's family moved to Mexico City when he was a teenager, and he began performing in local clubs and theaters. He soon became a popular performer and began composing his own music. In 1929, he wrote his first hit song, "Imposible," which was recorded by the famous Mexican singer and actress, Libertad Lamarque. Over the next few years, Lara continued to write hit songs, including "Solamente Una Vez," "Maria Bonita," and "Granada." His music was characterized by its romantic lyrics and lush melodies, and it quickly became popular throughout Latin America and beyond. In addition to his work as a composer, Lara was also a talented pianist and singer. He often performed his own songs in concerts and on radio programs, and he became known for his charismatic stage presence and his ability to connect with audiences. Throughout his career, Lara wrote hundreds of songs, many of which have become classics of Latin American music. His music has been recorded by countless artists, including Nat King Cole, Plácido Domingo, and Andrea Bocelli. Lara's music was also featured in several films, including the 1944 Mexican film, "María Félix," which starred the famous Mexican actress of the same name. The film featured several of Lara's songs, including "María Bonita," which became one of his most famous compositions. Despite his success as a composer and performer, Lara's personal life was often tumultuous. He was married several times and had numerous affairs, and he struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction throughout his life. Lara died on November 6, 1970, in Mexico City, at the age of 73. Despite his personal struggles, his music continues to be celebrated and performed around the world, and he is remembered as one of the greatest composers in the history of Latin American music.

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