Juanes is a popular Colombian singer and musician. Born in 1972, Juanes began learning musical instruments in his early childhood, which eventually lead him to participate in his first band, Ekhymosis, at 17 in 1988. 

 

The violence Juanes saw throughout his childhood, combined with his musical inspirations led him towards the rock genre. Ekhymosis grew to be a hit within Columbia but after ten years, Juanes left to start his solo career, due to the band failing to break out of its home country.

 

Juanes released his first solo album in 2000 with the help of Gustavo Santaolalla, who produced it. The album did well in Columbia and won Latin Grammys for Best New Artist, and Best Rock Solo Vocal Album. His second album in 2002 finally scored him some success within the U.S.

 

Since then Juanes has seen an enormous amount of success within and outside of Latin America. Currently, the musician has sold well over 15 million records globally.

 

Juanes is also a prominent activist towards many causes native to his home country and abroad.