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Jon SecadaAmerican pop singer and composer
Date of Birth: 04.10.1962
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Biography of Jon Secada
- Early Life and Education
- Collaboration with 'Gloria Estefan'
- Solo Career and Achievements
- Personal Life and Philanthropy
Biography of Jon Secada
Jon Secada (born Juan Secada) is an American singer and composer, known for his contributions to the pop genre. He was born on October 4, 1962, in Havana, Cuba, and was raised in Hialeah, Florida, USA. Secada's music combines elements of funk, soul, and pop with Latin influences.
Early Life and Education
Secada's parents emigrated to the United States when he was nine years old. He graduated from Hialeah High School in South Florida in 1979 and went on to attend the University of Miami. During his time at university, he showcased his talent as a jazz musician. Secada earned a bachelor's degree in music and later obtained a master's degree in jazz vocal performance.
Collaboration with 'Gloria Estefan'
In the late 1980s, Secada became a backing vocalist for the group 'Gloria Estefan.' However, he quickly began writing songs for the group, many of which became popular. His song 'Coming out of the dark' became a hit on the group's 1991 album. Following the tremendous success of 'Coming out of the dark,' the members of the group reconsidered their decision, and Secada became the lead vocalist of 'Gloria Estefan.'
Solo Career and Achievements
While still a member of 'Gloria Estefan,' Secada began contemplating a solo career. In 1991, he officially changed his name from Juan to Jon and released his debut self-titled album, which sold over six million copies in the United States and Europe. The album achieved triple platinum status in the US and reached number 15 on the Billboard 200 chart.
In 1992, Secada decided to record an album in Spanish, and he released 'Otro Día Más Sin Verte.' This Spanish-language album earned him his first Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop Album. His second English-language album, 'Heart, Soul & a Voice,' was released in 1994 and also achieved platinum status in the US. The single 'If you go' entered the top ten charts, and the song 'Mental picture' was featured on the soundtrack of the film 'The Specialist.'
Secada continued his success with his album 'Amor,' released in 1995, which earned him his second Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop Performer. In the same year, he received an invitation to perform in theatrical productions on Broadway. He played the lead role of Danny Zuko in the famous musical 'Grease.' Secada appeared on Broadway two more times, first in 2003 as the lead in Sam Mendes' production of 'Cabaret,' and later in 2004 as Joseph in 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.'
Throughout his career, Secada has collaborated with renowned artists such as Luciano Pavarotti and Frank Sinatra. He has released a total of 12 albums, which have achieved global success.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Since February 1997, Secada has been married to Maritere Vilar, and they have two children together, Mikaela and Jon Henry. In addition to his dedication to music, Secada is also committed to philanthropy. He actively participates in events dedicated to combating child abuse, sponsoring AIDS research, and improving education programs.
As part of his efforts to help children receive a quality education, Secada established a scholarship for musically gifted children at the University of Miami. He played a vital role in raising funds for the social program 'Keeping Music in Schools.'
Secada also played an active role in providing assistance to families who lost loved ones in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack in New York City. His song 'The last Goodbye' serves as a tribute to the victims of the attack. Secada promised to donate all the proceeds from the single to the families of the victims, and he fulfilled that promise by raising approximately $250,000.
In recognition of his commitment to education for Hispanic Americans, President George W. Bush appointed Secada to the Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans. The committee was tasked with creating a long-term plan to address the educational achievement gap between Spanish-speaking students and their English-speaking peers.
