Agustín Lara

One of Mexico's seminal songwriters during the prewar era, Agustín Lara wrote favorites including "Granada," "Solamente una Vez," "Maria Bonita," "Farolito," and "Palabras de Mujer." Excelling in ranchera, bolero, tropical songs, and tango, he enriched early Mexican films with his music. Born in 1897 in Mexico City, Lara learned piano and played in a bordello before attending military school. By 1928, his compositions were being recorded, and he wrote many legendary songs between 1930 and 1939. Lara toured South America, performed on national radio, and composed for films during Mexico's golden film era. In the '50s and '60s, he gained international fame, touring Europe. Despite a decline in popularity in the '60s, he remained influential until his death in 1970. Lara's songs have been performed by artists like Xavier Cugat, Nat King Cole, and Celia Cruz. Plácido Domingo also honored him with the album Por Amor.