Sole Gimenez

by Evan C. Gutierrez Contemporary Folk group Sole Giménez has enjoyed an uncommonly fruitful and long lasting career. The trio's decades-long collaboration generated a sizable discography, and loyal fan base and a number of hits that have changed the face of Spanish pop, such as "Alma de Blues," En la Oscuridad" and "Como hemos cambiado." Founding members Juan Luis Giménez (guitarist, composer) and Sole Giménez (vocalist, composer) first came together in their native town of Yecla (Murcia) in 1983. Though personnel changed in the early years, Javier Vela (bass, guitar) completed the trio in 1985. The group won the "Don Domingo" radio competition with their rendition of the song "Miss Circuito," earning the band a contract for the release of their first record. The album, entitled Danzad, Danzad Malditos, earned the group a sizable following thanks to heavy airplay. Four year passed before Sole's next album would be released. De Sol a Sol (1987) paved the way for a groundswell in popularity, ultimately resulting in a major contract for Sole Giménez. Their third record Alma de Blues was released by Warner in 1989. The album generated hits such as "Me das el mar" and "Cada Historia," which were put on heavy rotation on radio stations throughout Spain. Sole Giménez' careers and discography flourished throughout the 90's. Ser de Agua (1991), El pan y la Sal (1994), La Noche (1996), Siete (1997) and Versión Original (1999) all served to spread Sole's music and fame throughout Spain and Latin America. Over the course of Sole Giménez' better than two decades of success, their popularity has far from dwindled. The band's 2007 release Felicidad rose to number 15 on Spanish pop charts, demonstrating stability and staying power that few pop acts can claim.