Ruben Blades

Date of Birth: July 16, 1948

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Biography

Ruben Blades is an accomplished Panamanian musician, singer, composer, actor, and politician. Born on July 16, 1948, in Panama City, Panama, he has significantly impacted the world of Latin music, particularly in the genre of salsa. Blades’ career began in the 1970s, and he quickly rose to fame with his socially conscious lyrics and innovative musical arrangements. He collaborated with prominent artists like Willie Colón, producing classics such as “Pedro Navaja” and “Plástico.” In addition to his music career, Blades has made significant contributions to film and television, earning critical acclaim for his acting roles. He starred in movies like “The Milagro Beanfield War” and “Safe House” and appeared in TV shows such as “Fear the Walking Dead.” Blades also ventured into politics, running for the presidency of Panama in 1994 and serving as Minister of Tourism from 2004 to 2009. His work has earned him numerous awards, including multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards. Blades continues to be a prominent figure in both the entertainment industry and political arena, advocating for social justice and cultural preservation.

5 Interesting Facts about Ruben Blades

1. Ruben Blades holds a Master’s degree in International Law from Harvard University.

2. He has won nine Grammy Awards and five Latin Grammy Awards.

3. Blades was a significant figure in the salsa movement of the 1970s and 1980s.

4. He ran for the presidency of Panama in 1994, finishing third.

5. Blades has been involved in over 30 films and numerous television shows.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ruben Blades

1. “Music is a weapon in the war against unhappiness.”

2. “The challenge is to take the music to the people and to make them understand that it is a part of them.”

3. “I think we risk becoming the best informed society that has ever died of ignorance.”

4. “Music is a way of expressing yourself without words, and sometimes, it’s even more powerful than words.”

5. “Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.”