Elvis Crespo, born on July 30, 1971, in New York City and raised in Guaynabo, PuertoRico, is one of the most iconic voices in merengue music. Known for hiselectrifying energy and unmistakable voice, Crespo rose to international famein the late 1990s, helping to bring merengue to the global pop charts.
He began his career as a vocalist for the Puerto Rican group Grupo Manía, where he stood out for hisdynamic performance style and charisma. In 1998, he launched his solo careerwith the groundbreaking debut album Suavemente.The title track, “Suavemente,” becamean instant classic, topping Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart and becoming oneof the most recognizable Latin dance tracks of all time.
Crespo’s sound is rooted in merengue, but he has also experimentedwith bachata, tropical pop, and electronic fusions throughout his career. Othermajor hits include “Tu Sonrisa,”“Píntame,” “Besos de Coral,” and “LunaLlena.” His albums have consistently charted in the top spots of LatinBillboard rankings.
He has received numerous awards, including one Grammy Awardfor Best Merengue Performance, two Latin Grammy Awards, as well as Premios LoNuestro and Billboard Latin Music Awards. His success in the late ‘90s andearly 2000s helped cement the international appeal of merengue, especiallyamong younger audiences.
With more than 30 years in the music industry, Elvis Cresporemains a staple of Latin music. He continues to tour, release new music, andinfluence the next generation of tropical and urban artists with his vibrantstyle and trailblazing sound.