José Feliciano is a Puerto Rican singer, guitarist, and composer, known for his unique blend of Latin, jazz, and pop music.
Born on September 10, 1945, in Lares, Puerto Rico, Feliciano became a celebrated musician despite being born blind due to congenital glaucoma.
He moved with his family to New York City at a young age, where he began to develop his love for music.
Feliciano showed musical talent early, learning to play the accordion and then switching to the guitar.
He was inspired by American rock and roll, classical guitarists, and Latin music.
Feliciano was performing in Greenwich Village clubs by his late teens, and his talent attracted attention from record companies.
In 1968, he gained international fame with his Latin-infused cover of The Doors' "Light My Fire," which became a global hit and won him two Grammy Awards.
His distinct guitar playing, soulful voice, and ability to blend genres made him a standout figure in music.
One of Feliciano's most enduring contributions to music is his holiday classic, "Feliz Navidad" (1970).
The song, written and sung bilingually (in English and Spanish), has become a Christmas staple worldwide, showcasing Feliciano's ability to bridge cultural gaps through music.
In 1968, Feliciano became the first artist to perform the U.S. national anthem with a non-traditional arrangement at the World Series in Detroit.
His soulful, acoustic rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" sparked controversy at the time, as many found it unorthodox, though it later became recognized as a pioneering moment in anthem performances.
Throughout his career, Feliciano has recorded in multiple languages and explored various musical genres, including Latin pop, boleros, jazz, and American standards.
He has collaborated with a wide range of artists and continues to perform internationally.
His accolades include numerous Grammy Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and recognition for his contributions to both Latin and American music.
Despite being visually impaired, his mastery of the guitar and his charismatic stage presence have made him an influential figure in music history.
Feliciano remains a symbol of cultural crossover, breaking barriers in the music industry and fostering understanding through his unique artistic voice.
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