What is José Feliciano's full birth name?

José Feliciano's full birth name is José Montserrate Feliciano García.

When and where was José Feliciano born?

José Feliciano was born on September 10, 1945, in Lares, Puerto Rico.

What medical condition caused José Feliciano's blindness?

José Feliciano was born blind as a result of congenital glaucoma.

How many siblings did José Feliciano have?

José Feliciano was the fourth of eleven sons.

At what age did José Feliciano first become exposed to music, and what instrument was he associated with early on?

At the age of three, José Feliciano was first exposed to music, playing on a cracker tin can while accompanying his uncle who played the cuatro, a Puerto Rican string instrument.

When did José Feliciano's family relocate to New York City, and where in the city did they settle?

When Feliciano was five years old, his family moved to Spanish Harlem in New York City.

How did José Feliciano teach himself to play the accordion?

José Feliciano taught himself to play the accordion at the age of seven, demonstrating an early aptitude for music.

What were José Feliciano's primary musical influences during his youth?

José Feliciano was influenced by 1950s rock and roll, classical guitarists like Andrés Segovia, jazz players like Wes Montgomery, and soul music artists such as Ray Charles and Sam Cooke.

Who was José Feliciano's classical guitar teacher, and who was that teacher's mentor?

José Feliciano took classical guitar lessons with Harold Morris, who was a student of Andrés Segovia.

At what age did José Feliciano leave high school, and why?

At the age of 17, José Feliciano left high school to help support his family.

Where did José Feliciano perform his first professional contracted gig?

José Feliciano's first professional contracted performance was at The Retort, a coffee house located in Detroit, Michigan.

In what year was José Feliciano discovered and signed by RCA Victor?

José Feliciano was discovered and signed by RCA Victor in 1963.

What was the title of José Feliciano's first single, and where did it become a hit?

José Feliciano's first single was "Everybody Do the Click," which became a hit in the Philippines, reaching number 2 on the charts.

What significant event occurred during José Feliciano's visit to Argentina in 1966 that led to his Spanish-language recordings?

During his visit to Argentina in 1966, José Feliciano impressed RCA Victor executives who encouraged him to record an album in Spanish, blending his blues and folk influences with traditional bolero music.

Which two singles from his Spanish-language recordings became smash hits in Latin America?

The singles "Poquita Fe" (also known as "Sin Fe") and "Usted" became smash hits from his Spanish-language recordings in Latin America.

What was the controversy surrounding José Feliciano's planned visit to the United Kingdom in 1967?

Authorities in the United Kingdom would not allow his guide dog, Trudy, into the country unless she underwent a six-month quarantine, which devastated Feliciano.

What song did José Feliciano write in response to the UK's guide dog quarantine policy?

In response to the guide dog quarantine policy, Feliciano wrote the song "No Dogs Allowed," which became a Top 10 hit in the Netherlands in 1969.

What was the significance of José Feliciano's 1968 album *Feliciano!* in the United States?

The album *Feliciano!* reached number 2 on the music charts in the United States, contributing to his popularity in the 1960s.

Which song, originally by The Doors, did José Feliciano cover on his hit 1968 album *Feliciano!*?

José Feliciano covered The Doors' song "Light My Fire" on his 1968 album *Feliciano!*.

What two Grammy Awards did José Feliciano win in 1969?

In 1969, José Feliciano won two Grammy Awards: Best New Artist of the Year and Best Pop Male Performance.

What distinction is José Feliciano often recognized for regarding his guitar playing in the pop/rock scene?

José Feliciano is widely recognized as the first virtuoso classical guitarist to bring the sound of a nylon-string guitar into the pop/rock scene.

When and where did José Feliciano perform his controversial rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner"?

José Feliciano performed "The Star-Spangled Banner" on October 7, 1968, at Tiger Stadium in Detroit during the 1968 World Series.

What was the public reaction to José Feliciano's 1968 performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner," and what was his stated reason for the rendition?

His personalized, slow, Latin jazz performance was controversial, with some listeners believing he had desecrated the anthem. Feliciano explained he intended to make people pay attention to it.

What happened to José Feliciano's recording of "The Star-Spangled Banner" after its release?

The recording was released as a single, charting on the Billboard Hot 100, and is now on permanent exhibit in the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.

What was the title of José Feliciano's 1970 Christmas album, and what is its most famous song?

The 1970 Christmas album was originally titled *Jose Feliciano*, but later assumed the name of its most famous song, "Feliz Navidad," which Feliciano composed.

How has the song "Feliz Navidad" been recognized by ASCAP and the Grammy organization?

ASCAP recognizes "Feliz Navidad" as one of the 25 all-time most-played Christmas songs globally, and it is also included in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

In which languages and regions were the different versions of "Che Sarà" successful?

The Italian version was successful in Italy and much of Europe, including Eastern Bloc countries and Asia. The Spanish version, "Qué Será," was a hit in Central and South America, and the English version, "Shake a Hand," was successful in Scandinavian countries.

Which jazz guitarist covered José Feliciano's composition "Affirmation" on his hit album *Breezin'*?

Jazz guitarist George Benson covered José Feliciano's composition "Affirmation" on his hit album *Breezin'*.

In what year did José Feliciano receive his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?

José Feliciano received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on December 1, 1987.

How did the City of New York honor José Feliciano?

The City of New York honored José Feliciano by renaming Public School 155 as the José Feliciano Performing Arts School.

What was the title of José Feliciano's 1983 Spanish album that garnered a Grammy nomination, and what was the title of its follow-up?

The 1983 Spanish album was titled *Escenas de Amor*, which garnered a Grammy nomination, and its follow-up was *Me Enamoré*.

What was the nature of the parody controversy involving "Feliz Navidad" in 2009?

A parody titled "The Illegal Alien Christmas Song" was posted online, playing on racial stereotypes of Mexican immigrants and suggesting they spread bubonic plague, which Feliciano strongly condemned.

What was José Feliciano's reaction to the "Illegal Alien Christmas Song" parody?

Feliciano released a statement calling the parody "disgusting" and expressing his wish to be distanced from it, emphasizing that his song was meant as a bridge between cultures, not a vehicle for racism or hate.

What award did José Feliciano receive at the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards in 2000?

In 2000, José Feliciano was presented with the Grammy Legend Award.

What was the title of the 2000 tribute special produced by Banco Popular de Puerto Rico for José Feliciano?

The tribute special was titled *Guitarra Mía*.

When did José Feliciano receive the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award?

José Feliciano received the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award on November 9, 2011.

What was the significance of José Feliciano's 2018 performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the Detroit Tigers game compared to his 1968 performance?

In 2018, his performance was met with enthusiastic cheers, unlike the controversy in 1968, signifying a fifty-year journey where he was finally at peace with his stylization of the National Anthem.

What significant donation did José Feliciano make to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in 2018?

In 2018, José Feliciano donated his Candelas guitar, used for his controversial 1968 rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner," to the Smithsonian's permanent collection.

What was the theme of José Feliciano's appearance on *The Tonight Show* in Puerto Rico in 2019 with Lin-Manuel Miranda?

The appearance aimed to show that the spirit and soul of Puerto Rico and its people were alive and well, and that the island, affected by Hurricane Maria, was "Open for Business."

What was the purpose of the proceeds from the studio version of "En Mi Viejo San Juan" recorded by José Feliciano and Ozuna?

Twenty percent of the proceeds from the song were designated for Lin-Manuel Miranda's Flamboyan Arts Fund, supporting arts and culture programs for youth during Puerto Rico's reconstruction.

What was the nature of José Feliciano's musical collaboration with Jools Holland in 2017?

In November 2017, José Feliciano released a jazz and R&B album with Jools Holland, which became a hit and charted in the UK.

What event was held in Puerto Rico in May 2018 to celebrate José Feliciano's golden anniversary?

An event called *José Feliciano: Transcendental 50th Aniversario de Oro y su Legado* was held at the Luis A. Ferré Performing Arts Center in Puerto Rico.

What was the outcome of José Feliciano's 1980s recordings for Motown, specifically regarding Grammy recognition?

His Motown albums *Escenas de Amor* and *Me Enamoré* were big hits in the Latin market and received Grammy nominations and wins for Best Latin Pop Performance.

What musical genres are explored in José Feliciano's music?

José Feliciano's music explores a fusion of Latin, blues, jazz, soul, and rock music.

When did José Feliciano marry his second wife, Susan Omillian?

José Feliciano married Susan Omillian in 1982, after dating for 11 years.

Where do José Feliciano and his second wife, Susan Omillian, reside?

They reside in Weston, Connecticut.

What was the title of José Feliciano's 2012 album, and who was it a tribute to?

The title of José Feliciano's 2012 album was *The King*, and it was a tribute to Elvis Presley.

What is the significance of the song "Feliz Navidad" in terms of its global reach and recognition?

"Feliz Navidad" has been covered internationally by hundreds of artists, remains a popular Christmas song each year, is recognized by ASCAP as one of the 25 most-played Christmas songs, and is in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

What role did José Feliciano play in the Independent Music Awards?

José Feliciano was an inaugural member of the Independent Music Awards' judging panel, supporting independent artists.

What was the title of José Feliciano's 1969 London Palladium double-disc LP?

The title of José Feliciano's 1969 London Palladium double-disc LP was *Alive Alive-O!*.

What did José Feliciano's 2017 album with Jools Holland achieve in the UK charts?

The jazz and R&B album with Jools Holland became a hit and reached number 24 in the UK charts, marking the first time an LP by Feliciano charted there since his 1970 LP *Fireworks*.

Jos U00e9 Feliciano Wiki: The Rhythmic Soul of José Feliciano: A Virtuoso's Legacy

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Biographical Sketch

Origins

Born José Montserrate Feliciano García on September 10, 1945, in Lares, Puerto Rico, Feliciano is the fourth of eleven sons. His profound connection with music began at age three, accompanying his uncle on the cuatro. Notably, he was born blind due to congenital glaucoma, a condition that would shape his unique perspective and relationship with sound.

Early Musical Development

Relocating to Spanish Harlem, New York City, at age five, Feliciano's musical journey accelerated. He taught himself the accordion by age seven and received his first guitar two years later. He dedicated countless hours to practicing, drawing inspiration from diverse genres like 1950s rock and roll, classical guitarists such as Andrés Segovia, and jazz virtuosos like Wes Montgomery. His early vocal influences included soul artists like Ray Charles and Sam Cooke.

Forging a Path

Leaving high school at seventeen to support his family, Feliciano began performing in coffee houses across the US and Canada. His initial professional engagement was at The Retort in Detroit. His talent for mimicry, even imitating Bob Dylan in front of the artist himself, showcased his early charisma. His first single, "Everybody Do the Click," found success in the Philippines, and he was invited to the prestigious Newport Folk Festival in 1964.

Career Trajectory

Discovery and Latin Roots

In 1963, while performing in Greenwich Village, Feliciano was discovered by RCA Victor. His career took a significant turn in Argentina in 1966 when RCA Victor executives encouraged him to record in Spanish. He infused traditional bolero music with his signature blues and folk influences, creating a revolutionary sound. Hits like "Poquita Fe" and "Usted," along with interpretations of "La Copa Rota" and "Extraños en la Noche" (the Spanish version of Sinatra's "Strangers in the Night"), cemented his success throughout Latin America.

Crossover Success

Moving to Los Angeles, Feliciano collaborated with producer Rick Jarrard, resulting in the 1968 album *Feliciano!*. His rendition of The Doors' "Light My Fire" became a global phenomenon, reaching No. 3 on the US charts and earning him a gold disc. This crossover success, blending Latin flair with pop and rock, brought him worldwide recognition and two Grammy Awards in 1968 for Best New Artist and Best Pop Male Performance. He is lauded for bringing the nylon-string guitar sound into the pop mainstream.

The Anthem Controversy

Feliciano's unique, soulful rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the 1968 World Series in Detroit sparked controversy. While some criticized it as disrespectful, Feliciano aimed to draw attention to the anthem. His performance, accompanied by acoustic guitar, became the first time the anthem charted on the Billboard Hot 100 (peaking at No. 50) and is now part of the Baseball Hall of Fame's collection.

Global Reach and Collaborations

Throughout the 1970s and beyond, Feliciano continued to tour internationally and collaborate with prominent artists. He participated in the Sanremo Music Festival in Italy with "Che Sarà," which became a hit across Europe and Asia. He also contributed to television soundtracks and performed with artists like Johnny Cash, Bing Crosby, and Joni Mitchell. His compositions, including the theme for "Chico and the Man" and the enduring Christmas classic "Feliz Navidad" (released in 1970), further solidified his global impact.

Signature Songs

Light My Fire

Feliciano's 1968 cover of The Doors' classic transformed the song into a global hit, showcasing his distinctive guitar style and soulful vocals. It earned him critical acclaim and significant commercial success.

Feliz Navidad

Released in 1970, this bilingual Christmas carol has become a worldwide holiday staple. Recognized by ASCAP as one of the most played Christmas songs, its simple, joyful message resonates across cultures annually.

Star-Spangled Banner

His controversial yet powerful 1968 rendition of the US national anthem brought a unique Latin jazz interpretation to the forefront, sparking national conversation and becoming an iconic moment in music history.

Che Sarà

This Italian ballad, performed by Feliciano at the Sanremo Music Festival in 1971, achieved widespread popularity throughout Europe and beyond, demonstrating his versatility and international appeal.

Accolades and Honors

Grammy Awards

Feliciano has received numerous Grammy Awards throughout his career, recognizing his exceptional talent and contributions to music.

1969: Best New Artist Of The Year
1969: Best Contemporary Pop Vocal Performance, Male ("Light My Fire")
1984: Best Latin Pop Performance ("Me Enamore")
1987: Best Latin Pop Performance ("Le Lo Lai")
1990: Best Latin Pop Performance ("Cielito Lindo")
1991: Best Latin Pop Performance (Por Que Te Tengo Que Olvidar?)
2009: Best Tropical Latin Album (Señor Bachata)

He has also received multiple nominations across various categories.

Latin Grammy Awards

His significant impact on Latin music has been recognized with prestigious Latin Grammy Awards.

2008: Best Contemporary Tropical Album (Señor Bachata)
2011: Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

Additionally, he has received nominations for his work in Latin music categories.

Hall of Fame & Other Honors

Feliciano's legacy is further cemented by his induction into various Halls of Fame and receiving significant lifetime achievement awards.

Hollywood Walk of Fame: Star awarded in 1987.
International Latin Music Hall of Fame: Honored in 2000.
Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2013.
Billboard Latin Music Awards: Received the Lifetime Achievement Award (1996) and Billboard Legend Award (2022).
Emmy Award Nomination: Outstanding Achievement in Special Musical Material for "Chico and the Man" theme (1975).

Personal Life

Marriages

Feliciano has been married twice. His first marriage was to Janna Merlyn Pérez (1945–2018), with whom he divorced in 1978. He later married Susan Omillian in 1982, after an eleven-year courtship. Susan, an art student from Detroit, first met Feliciano during the time of his controversial "Star-Spangled Banner" performance.

Family

José and Susan Feliciano reside in Weston, Connecticut. They are parents to two sons and one daughter, continuing to build their family life alongside his illustrious career.

Enduring Impact

Cultural Significance

Feliciano's ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical genres—Latin, pop, soul, jazz, and rock—established him as a pioneering crossover artist. His unique nylon-string guitar sound became instantly recognizable, influencing countless musicians across various genres.

Musical Innovation

He broke barriers by introducing sophisticated guitar techniques and Latin rhythms into mainstream pop music. His interpretations of popular songs, like "Light My Fire," and his original compositions, such as "Feliz Navidad," demonstrate his artistic versatility and enduring appeal.

Voice for Change

Beyond his musical achievements, Feliciano's performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the 1968 World Series became a cultural touchstone, reflecting the social and political climate of the era and demonstrating the power of artistic expression to provoke dialogue.

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References

Episode 37: Jose Feliciano:: Live From Daryl's House with Daryl Hall:: Current Episode. Livefromdarylshouse.com. Retrieved on 2012-05-12.

"Musician will pay tribute to Harwell by singing national anthem in Detroit", The Detroit Free Press, p. 7B, Monday, May 10, 2010.

Jose Feliciano Official Site - OFFICIAL STATEMENT. Josefeliciano.com. Retrieved on 2012-05-12.

Music. Travel Ponce.com. Retrieved 3 October 2013.

A full list of references for this article are available at the José Feliciano Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding music history, artist biographies, or copyright matters. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Rhythmic Soul of José Feliciano

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Biographical Sketch 🎵

🇵🇷 Origins

🎸 Early Musical Development

🎤 Forging a Path

Career Trajectory 🚀

🌟 Discovery and Latin Roots

🔥 Crossover Success

🇺🇸 The Anthem Controversy

🌍 Global Reach and Collaborations

Signature Songs 🎶

🔥 Light My Fire

🎄 Feliz Navidad

⭐ Star-Spangled Banner

🇮🇹 Che Sarà

Accolades and Honors 🏆

⭐ Grammy Awards

🌟 Latin Grammy Awards

🏛️ Hall of Fame & Other Honors

Personal Life ❤️

💍 Marriages

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family

Enduring Impact 💡

🌐 Cultural Significance

🎶 Musical Innovation

🗣️ Voice for Change

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Biographical Sketch

Origins

Early Musical Development

Forging a Path

Career Trajectory

Discovery and Latin Roots

Crossover Success

The Anthem Controversy

Global Reach and Collaborations

Signature Songs

Light My Fire

Feliz Navidad

Star-Spangled Banner

Che Sarà

Accolades and Honors

Grammy Awards

Latin Grammy Awards

Hall of Fame & Other Honors

Personal Life

Marriages

Family

Enduring Impact

Cultural Significance

Musical Innovation

Voice for Change

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice