Joaquín Sabina

by Drago Bonacich
Singer and songwriter Joaquín Sabina was born in Úbeda, Spain, in February 12, 1949. At the age of 14, Sabina started writing poems, getting connected with music as a member of a teenager's rockabilly band called Merry Youngs. Sabina's poetry and music skills were extended to acting while being part of Juan Panadero's theatrical company. In 1976, his book Memorias del Exilio was published and its lyrics were Sabina's inspiration to record his first album in 1978. El Inventario was followed by Malas Compañias, the first one for CBS. While the artist's popularity as a songwriter was growing, Sabina's lyrics started being requested by well-known Hispanic singers. In 1985, Sabina left CBS, signing up to Ariola. Joaquín Sabina y Viceversa was recorded live during two successful shows performed at Salamanca Theater on February 14 and 15, 1986. The following studio record came in 1987. Hotel, Dulce Hotel sold over 400,000 copies. In 1992, Sabina went on tour, performing almost 200 shows around the world. In 1997, the artist was recognized as the Best Spanish Rock and Pop Songwriter by the Spanish Songwriters Association (SGAE). Nos Sobran los Motivos followed three years later.