Martin became a singer at age six. He would perform for his family and was encouraged to pursue music and acting. The years 1984-1989 he spent as one fifth of the Puerto Rican boy band Menudo. The experience allowed Martin to travel worldwide and further develop his performance skills. After returning home in 1989 to graduate high school, Martin was signed as a solo artist in 1990 to Sony Discos, the Latin branch of Sony Music Entertainment.
Ricky Martin’s first self-titled album came out in 1991 to much success in Latin America and the U.S. His single “Fuego Contra Fuego” was the most popular of the album, becoming certified gold in Puerto Rico and the U.S. He continued with Spanish albums throughout the early 90’s and his single “Maria” from album “A Medio Vivir” received overwhelming praise in Europe.
The World Cup in 1998 was a turning point for Martin, as his song “La Copa De La Vida” was featured during the sporting event and garnered the attention of its international viewership. His album “Vuelve” won Best Latin Pop Album at the 41st Grammy Awards and he was praised by his idols Sting and Madonna.
Ricky Martin’s streak continued with his first Spanglish album “Ricky Martin” which was released in 1999. The album has been certified platinum seven times and has sold more than 22 million copies worldwide. It peaked at #1 on the Billboard 200 in 1999 and major hit “Livin’ La Vida Loca” helped him crossover into the English-speaking music industry. It is Martin’s most popular song to date; I mean who doesn’t default to “Livin’ la Vida Loca” on karaoke night? All jokes aside, Ricky Martin’s success allowed other Latin artists to crossover into the English market such as Jennifer Lopez and Enrique Iglesias.
Martin’s first completely English album “Sound Loaded” was released in November 2000 and the hits “She Bangs” and “Nobody Wants to Be Lonely” charted at #1 on the Hot Latin Songs.
Ricky Martin cites Michael Jackson, Cher, Barbara Streisand, and Madonna as his musical influences. He also admires all genres of Latin music from salsa to merengue and looks up to Latin singers Celia Cruz and Gilberto Santa Rosa. Recently, Martin has appeared as a coach on popular reality singing show “The Voice” both in Australia and in Mexico.
Ricky Martin, an icon of the 1990s and a master of his own unique blend of pop, rock and latino is as relevant now as ever. Despite often being noted for airing on the side of novelty, his record sales would quieten the most negative of critic as he has sold over 90 million records globally.
Now a one man party onstage, he is an indescribable showman who knows how to whip his audience into frenzy with a quick swing of his hips. From the introduction to 'Será será', Martin and his army of dancers delight crowds with a mixture of latino pop and complex dance routines. Making his way around his stage set-up to jam with his tight backing band, there is a huge emphasis of fun during the show.
Plus when he brings out the A-list hits such as 'She Bangs' the cheers from the audience could violate many noise pollution laws. 'Livin' la Vida Loca' is the most nostalgic track of the night yet Ricky showcasing his vocal during 'I Am' receives even bigger applause. Martin proves through his live show that he is not only a singer but a performer in every sense of the word.
sean-ward
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