Biography
Who is Víctor Manuel?
Early life and career beginnings
Born in Mieres, Spain, on July 7, 1947, the artist was given the full name Víctor Manuel San José Sánchez. He began his professional music career in the mid-1960s with the recording label Belter. Between 1966 and 1969, he released various singles, an EP, and his first studio album.
Early recordings included tracks like El tren de madera and El abuelo Vítor. These initial works established his presence in the Spanish music scene. His early output laid the foundation for a career that would later span many decades and numerous record labels, including his later work with Philips-Universal and CBS.
Musical evolution and political themes
In 1970, the singer signed with Universal. His political songwriting during this period reportedly caused friction with his label, which led to a lack of promotional support and several commercial disappointments. Despite these challenges, he continued to release albums such as Quiero abrazarte tanto and Dáme la mano.
By 1978, he signed with CBS, which marked a shift in his commercial success. Between 1979 and 1986, he achieved several number-one hits and placed 12 songs in the Top 40. One well-known release from this era was the album Soy un corazón tendido al sol, which featured the popular song Sólo pienso en ti.
Label independence and collaborations
Following the success of his album Para la ternura siempre hay tiempo, he decided to leave CBS. He established his own independent record label, Ion Música, while arranging for distribution through BMG-Ariola. This move allowed him more control over his creative output during the late 1980s and the 1990s.
The artist has engaged in many high-profile collaborations throughout his career. In 1994, he performed alongside Ana Belén and seven other artists, including Joan Manuel Serrat and Joaquín Sabina, at the Sport's Palace of Gijón. He also participated in projects like the 1996 album El gusto es nuestro and the 2002 concert Hecho en Asturias.
Acting and personal life
Beyond his music, he has worked as a film actor and television director. He appeared in the 1972 films Morbo and Al diablo, con amor, both starring alongside his spouse, Ana Belén. The couple married in 1972 and are considered significant figures regarding the Spanish Transition.
He and Ana Belén have one child together, named Marina San José. Throughout his career, he has composed, sung, and acted, contributing to various tribute albums like the 1986 Federico García Lorca collection, Poets in New York. He received the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the arts.
Birthday and age
Víctor Manuel was born on July 7, 1947, which makes Víctor 79 years old today. That birthday falls under the Cancer sign. Víctor shares the date with 55 other famous people.
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