ARMANDO MANZANERO
Armando Manzanero is widely considered the premiere Mexican romantic composer of the post-war era and one of the most successful and beloved composers in Latin America. At the age of eight, he was introduced into the world of music in the Escuela de Bellas Artes of his native city of Mérida, later furthering his musical studies in Mexico City. At 15, he composed his first melody, titled “Nunca en el Mundo,” of which 21 versions in different languages have been recorded to date.
In 1957, Manzanero was signed as musical director by CBS International and Musical Promoter by EMI, soon becoming the pianist for Pedro Vargas, Lucho Gatica and Raphael. Two years later, an RCA Victor executive urged him to record his first album of love songs, called Mi Primera Grabación. Manzanero won first place at the 1965 Festival de la Canción in Miami with the song “Cuando Estoy Contigo.” In 1970, his song “Somos Novios” was translated into English by Sid Wayne and renamed “It’s Impossible.” This version was performed by Perry Como and nominated for a Grammy.
Since 1982, Manzanero has been the Vice President and one of the main directors of the Asociación Nacional de Autores y Compositores. His work in defense of copyright law has strengthened the organization and garnered international acclaim.
Over a career spanning more than 50 years, Manzanero has composed more than 400 songs, including “Voy a Apagar la Luz,” “Contigo Aprendí,” “Adoro, No Sé Tú,” “Por Debajo De La Mesa,” “Esta Tarde Vi Llover,” “Somos Novios,” “Felicidad” and “Nada Personal.” Manzanero’s songs have been performed by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Elvis Presley, Frank Pourcel, Paul Muriat, Ray Conniff, Manoella Torres, Marco Antonio Muñiz, José José, Andrea Bocelli, Christina Aguilera, Luis Miguel and Il Divo. He has performed throughout the world, participated in numerous radio and television shows, composed several movie scores and recorded more than 30 albums.
ASCAP is proud to honor Armando Manzanero with the Latin Heritage Award in recognition of his lifetime of contributions to Latin music.
