Who's behind the notes? Discover Consuelo Velazquez: The Voice Behind 'Besame Mucho'
Consuelo Velázquez was a Mexican songwriter and pianist best known for composing the timeless and iconic bolero song "Bésame Mucho." Here are some interesting facts about her:
Early Life: Consuelo Velázquez was born on August 21, 1924, in Ciudad Guzmán, Jalisco, Mexico. She displayed musical talent from a young age and began playing the piano when she was just 4 years old.
"Bésame Mucho": Velázquez composed "Bésame Mucho" in 1940 when she was only 15 years old. The song's title translates to "Kiss Me a Lot" or "Kiss Me Much" in English. It has since become one of the most recorded and performed songs in the world, sung by countless artists in various languages.
International Success: "Bésame Mucho" has been covered by numerous renowned artists, including The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Diana Krall, and Andrea Bocelli, among many others. Its enduring popularity has made it a classic in the Latin American and global music repertoire.
Versatile Musician: Besides "Bésame Mucho," Consuelo Velázquez composed many other songs in different genres, including bolero, danzón, and pop. Some of her other notable compositions include "Amar y Vivir" and "Verdad Amarga."
Musical Legacy: Consuelo Velázquez's contributions to music earned her numerous awards and accolades during her lifetime. Her work continues to be celebrated and remembered, solidifying her status as one of Mexico's most important songwriters.
Prolific Career: Throughout her career, Velázquez composed over 400 songs, many of which have become classics in the Mexican and Latin American music scene.
Collaborations: She worked with several famous Mexican singers and musicians, including Pedro Infante, Jorge Negrete, and Agustín Lara, who were key figures in the Golden Age of Mexican cinema and music.
Global Recognition: Consuelo Velázquez's compositions have transcended borders and have been performed and appreciated by audiences around the world. Her music remains an integral part of Mexican and Latin American culture.
Later Life: Velázquez continued to perform and compose music throughout her life. She passed away on January 22, 2005, in Mexico City, leaving behind a lasting musical legacy.
Consuelo Velázquez's talent and her timeless composition "Bésame Mucho" have made her an enduring figure in the world of music, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural heritage of Mexico and the global music scene.