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Melendi
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Ramón Melendi Espina (born 21 January 1979), known mononymously as Melendi, is a Spanish singer-songwriter. His specialties are rock, flamenco, and rumba styles.[1]
Early life
[edit]Melendi was born in Oviedo, Asturias.[2] He went to school with Formula One race car driver Fernando Alonso, to whom he dedicated the song "Magic Alonso". Melendi also did racing for a while. He realized very quickly that though he was not made for racing nor studying, he was good at football. He played in the lower ranks of Astur CF, at the time a reserve team for Real Oviedo.[3][4] Afterwards, he worked as a waiter in several bars, living experiences that would later make up the lyrics of his songs.
In 2001, he joined a group called "El bosque de Sherwood", and soon after recorded a demo with only three songs, "Sin noticias de Holanda", "El informe del forense", and "Vuelvo a traficar".
Career
[edit]2003–2006: Career beginnings
[edit]In February 2003, Melendi released his first solo album, Sin noticias de Holanda, with twelve songs. In December 2003, this disc was rereleased with two new songs, "Asturias" and "Moratalá". However, he reached true fame when the 2004 Vuelta a España chose his song "Con la luna llena" as its official theme. In May 2004, he started a small tour around Spain, selling 50,000 copies of his CD, making it a gold album.
In 2005, he released his second solo CD, Que el cielo espere sentao, which has sold more than 200,000 copies. Later that same year, he rereleased the album with three new songs, "El Nano", "La dama y el vagabundo" and "Carlota", and a Live concert DVD recorded in Oviedo. He also became a father that year, and received the Onda award for Best Song of the Year for "Caminando por la vida". In November 2005, he received seven Platinum Discs for his two albums. Sin noticias... received four and Que el cielo... three.
In 2006, it was announced that Melendi would be one of the main stars in the PSP game Gangs of London. Melendi played Mr. Big, an evil gangster. He also wrote the song "Gangs of London" for the occasion, going on to film a video amidst police lights and sirens. The videogame was launched on 1 August of that year in the UK and on 6 September in Spain; EMI stepped in to distribute his CDs worldwide. He also wrote the song "Volveremos" (We Shall Return) for Real Oviedo. The singer is also involved in the production of the film Vuelvo a traficar (I'm Dealing Again). Mientras no cueste trabajo was released on 13 November 2006, in two formats: a normal CD with 12 songs, and a special edition, with 16 songs and a DVD with extras. The disc was rereleased on 29 October 2009, with four new songs, "Firmes", "El rey de la baraja", "La aceituna", and "Me gusta el fútbol".
2007–2010: Curiosa la cara de tu padre and Volvamos a empezar
[edit]In 2007, Melendi received the "Best Tour" award from the Premios de la Música ceremony held in Cordoba. He also did an advertising campaign for Canal+ Spain entitled "Me gusta el fútbol" (I Like Football), for which he wrote a song of the same name.
Also in 2007, Melendi stood trial for provoking an incident while under the influence of alcohol on a flight from Madrid to Mexico City that required the pilot to return to Madrid two hours after takeoff.[5][6] He was released after testifying. Soon after, he was given the "Left Foot" award from Spanish radio station Cadena 100 for this incident.
Currently, Melendi directs his Blue Donkey Music company, helping young singers start their careers. He has offered contracts to four groups, Algunos Hombres Buenos, Rasel, La Dama y Belo, and Los Susodichos. This last group was nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best Rock Vocals. Algunos Hombres Buenos left the label in 2008.
On 9 August 2008, he presented his new single, "Un violinista en tu tejado" from his album Curiosa la cara de tu padre on Spanish radio station Los 40 Principales. The album was released on 16 September 2008. On 12 December, Los 40 Principales awarded him their award for this album.
On 17 December 2009, he released a new double CD, Aún más curiosa la cara de tu padre, including the original disc and another with nine new songs and links to exclusive content on his website.
2011–2015: Lágrimas desordenadas, Un alumno más and Directo a septiembre
[edit]In 2011, Melendi recorded a cover of "True colours" by Cyndi Lauper in Catalan called "Ulls dolços", for the CD of TV3's telethon La Marató.[7]
On 13 November 2012, he released a new album called Lágrimas desordenadas.[8] He went on a tour of Spain and Latin America later that same year to celebrate the 10th anniversary of his first solo album.[9]
His latest album, Un alumno más, was released on 25 November 2014.[10] Over the four months before the album was released, two songs from the album were released as lyrics videos. One was released as a single ("Tocado y hundido"), and one was released in an acoustic version.
2016–2018: Quítate las gafas and Ahora
[edit]In 2016, Melendi issued Quítate las gafas, featuring collaboration with ChocQuibTown. The first single from the album was "Desde Que Estamos Juntos", released on 23 September 2016. The other songs released were "La Casa No Es Igual", "Destino o Casualidad" and "Yo Me Veo Contigo". On 2 June 2017, he released a remix version of "Destino o Casualidad" with American duo Ha*Ash, along with the music video.[11] On 8 December 2017, he released a second compilation album, Yo me veo contigo, with 11 songs.[12]
2019–present: 10:20:40
[edit]In October 2019, Melendi joined as coach of the second Mexican season of La Voz Kids by Televisa.[13]
On 29 November 2019, he released a new album called 10:20:40,[14] featuring collaboration with Cali y El Dandee.[15]
Private life
[edit]In his early years, there were false reports announcing his alleged death from an overdose or shootings.[16]
In 2005, Melendi became the father for the first time of a girl named Carlota.[17]
In 2014 he met the Argentine actress and dancer Julia Nakamatsu, who later appeared in the singer's video "La promesa".[18]
In 2023 Melendi revealed that his grandfather is originally from Camaguey, Cuba.
Melendi's first marriage with Miriam Martinez resulted in the birth of his first child Carlota Melendi Martinez in 2005. He was then married to Damaris Abad from 2010 to 2014, and his third marriage with Julia Nakamatsu started in 2014 until now, which resulted in the birth of four of his children, Marco, Lola, Abril, and Dakota Melendi Nakamatsu. From the early beginnings of his career, Melendi has been surrounded by a series of constant myths about his life. The most known myths were that he was involved with drug trafficking during his youth and that he had been in jail. These myths reached such notoriety that the artist himself made fun of this assumption in a concert celebrated in 2004 in Zamora. In November of 2007, he was arrested because of an instance in which he caused an alternate while being intoxicated on a flight from Madrid to Mexico. The severity of the case was such that the pilot of the plane made the decision to go back to the origin point two hours after they had taken off. He was arrested and put in freedom shortly after.[19][20]
Artistry
[edit]Influences
The artistic beginnings of Melendi were not academic nor formal; he does not have an official musical education, he mentions he started singing and playing guitar at the age of 16. His artistic inspirations are reflections of the artist's background, showcasing elements from the Spanish culture and folkloric genres such as flamenco and Rumba flamenca, Melendi’s biggest artistic inspirations are Joaquín Sabina, Jose Manuel Serrat, and Pablo Milanés. Melendi began his career focusing on the popular styles and rhythms of Spain in the early 2000’s such as flamenco and Pop rock widely present on his debut album “Sin noticias de Holanda”. His musical journey showcases a clear switch as the artist has transitioned from the rhythms of flamenco to more produced and refined pop-rock infused with orchestral elements. The artist himself has recognized the evolution of his music in an interview where he mentioned that it's hard for him to listen to his first albums not because he finds them bad, but because he doesn't recognize himself. He has mentioned that each album represents a specific moment in his life but especially highlights the third album on which he had his first child. The artist mentions that most of his musical references come from the music his parents used to listen to and that he enjoys listening to those artists' interviews and learning where their music comes from. Melendez calls himself a creative person rather than an artist and, as a creative person, he understands the creative process. He writes a song by doing research, asking for different opinions and then he begins the writing process.[21]
Discography
[edit]Albums
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]
| Title | Album details | Peak position SPA [22] |
Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sin noticias de Holanda |
|
11 |
|
| Que el cielo espere sentao |
|
1 |
|
| Mientras no cueste trabajo |
|
2 |
|
| Curiosa la cara de tu padre |
|
1 |
|
| Volvamos a empezar |
|
2 |
|
| Lágrimas desordenadas |
|
2 |
|
| Un alumno más |
|
1 |
|
| Directo a septiembre |
|
4 |
|
| Quítate las gafas |
|
1 |
|
| Ahora |
|
1 |
|
| 10:20:40 |
|
1 |
|
| Likes y Cicatrices |
|
1 |
|
Live albums
[edit]| Title | Album details |
|---|---|
| Directo a Septiembre (Gira Un Alumno Más) |
|
Compilation albums
[edit]| Title | Album details | Peak position SPA |
Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caminando Por La Vida (Remastered) |
|
– | |
| Yo me veo contigo |
|
6 [32] |
|
| 20 Años Sin Noticias |
|
1[33] |
Extended plays
[edit]| Title | Album details |
|---|---|
| Aún más curiosa la cara de tu padre |
|
Singles
[edit]| Year | Title | Peak position SPA [22] |
Certifications | Album |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | "Mi Rumbita Pa Tus Pies" | — | Sin noticias de Holanda | |
| "Desde Mi Ventana" | — | |||
| "Sé Lo Que Hicisteis" | — | |||
| 2004 | "Con La Luna Llena" | — | ||
| "Hablando En Plata" | — | |||
| 2005 | "Caminando Por La Vida" | — | Que el cielo espere sentao | |
| "Con Sólo Una Sonrisa" | — | |||
| 2006 | "Novia A La Fuga" | — | ||
| "Kisiera Yo Saber" | 17 | Mientras no cueste trabajo | ||
| 2007 | "Calle La Pantomima" | — | ||
| "Por Amarte Tanto" | — | |||
| 2008 | "Un Violinista En Tu Tejado" | 6 |
|
Curiosa la cara de tu padre |
| 2009 | "Piratas Del Bar Caribe" | 33 | ||
| "Estoy Enfermo"
(with Pignoise) |
12 |
| ||
| 2010 | "Como Una Vela" | 13 | Aún Más Curiosa La Cara De Tu Padre | |
| "Barbie de Extrarradio" | 10 |
|
Volvamos A Empezar | |
| 2011 | "Canción de Amor Caducada" | 10 | ||
| "Perdóname ángel" | 22 | |||
| 2012 | "Cuestión De Príoridades Por El Cuerno De África" (with Carlos Baute) |
36 | Charity Single | |
| "Lágrimas Desordenadas" | 3 |
|
Lágrimas Desordenadas | |
| "Cheque Al Portamor" | 36 | |||
| 2013 | "Tu Jardín Con Enanitos" | 10 | ||
| "Cheque Al Portamor" | 36 | |||
| 2014 | "Tocado Y Hundido" | 4 |
|
Un Alumno Más |
| 2015 | "Más Allá De Nuestros Recuerdos" | 19 | ||
| "La Promesa" | 21 | |||
| 2016 | "Desde Que Estamos Juntos" | 5 | Quítate Las Gafas | |
| "Soy Tu Superhéroe" | 28 | |||
| 2017 | "La Casa No Es Igual" | 41 | ||
| "Destino o Casualidad"[35] (solo o with Ha*Ash) |
56 [36] |
|||
| 2018 | "El Arrepentido" (with Carlos Vives) |
33 |
|
Ahora |
| "Déjala Que Baile" (with Alejandro Sanz and Arkano) |
15 |
| ||
| "Mírame (Acústico)"[39] | — | |||
| "Aves de Paso"[40] | — | |||
| "Besos a la Lona"[41] | 88 | |||
| 2019 | "El cielo nunca cambiará"[42] | — | Cómo entrenar a tu dragón 3 soundtrack | |
| "Dímelo"[43] (with Andy Clay) |
— | Non-album singles | ||
| "Por encima de la bruma"[44] | 83 | |||
| "El Ciego"[45] (with Cali y El Dandee) |
— | 10:20:40 | ||
| "Casi" | — | |||
| "Tan Tonto Cómo Tú" | — | |||
| 2020 | "La Chica Perfecta" | — | ||
| 2021 | "La Boca Junta" | 79 | Likes y Cicatrices | |
| 2022 | "Si ella supiera" (with India Martínez) |
53 | Non-album singles | |
| 2023 | "Sé Lo Que Hicisteis" (with Natos y Waor) |
48 | 20 Años Sin Noticias | |
| 2025 | "Caminando Por la Vida" | 69 | Non-album singles |
Collaborations
[edit]- José Avilés Bas: "Volveremos Real Oviedo" (2013)
- Los Chunguitos: "Con la luna llena" (2004).
- Pablo Moro: "María" (2005).
- Algunos Hombres Buenos: "Salta" (2006).
- Seguridad Social: "Quiero tener tu presencia" (live, unedited).
- Belo: "Al gallo que me cante" (live, unedited).
- Un tributo a Brasil: "Adiós tristeza".
- Rasel "Mil razas" (2007).
- Guaraná: "De lao a lao" (2008).
- Pignoise: "Estoy enfermo" (2009).
- Fernando Tejero: "So payaso" (2010).
- Porretas: "Dos pulgas en un perro" (2011).
- Juanes: "Me enamora" (2011; live, unedited).
- Mojinos Escozíos y Ariel Rot: "Al carajo" (2011).
- Pablo Motos: "Marco" (2011).
- Malú: El apagón (2011) (live, unedited).
- Leonel García: "Para empezar" (2011; live, unedited).
- Pablo Alborán, Dani Martín, Malú, Carlos Baute, Rasel y La Dama: "Cuestión de prioridades por el cuerno de África" (2012).
- Malú: "Amigo" (2012).
- Lolita Flores: "Arriba los corazones", by Antonio Flores (live, unedited).
- Malú: "Con solo una sonrisa" (live, unedited).
- La Dama: "Corazón de peón" (live, unedited).
- Rasel: "Por qué" (2013).
- La Dama: "Estrella fugaz" (2014).
- Margarett: "Por ti" (2014).
- Laura Pausini: "Entre tú y mil mares" (2014).
- Antonio Orozco, Manuel Carrasco, Malú, Alejandro Sanz: "Mi Héroe" (2016)
- Ha*Ash: "Destino o Casualidad" (2017)
- Carlos Vives: "El Arrepentido" (2018)
- Beret: "Desde Cero" (2019)
Tours
[edit]- Un Alumno Más (2015)
- Directo a Septiembre (2016)
- Quitate las Gafas (2017)
- Ahora (2018)
- Mi Cubo de Rubik (2019)
- 20 Años Sin Noticias (2024-2025)
References
[edit]- ^ "Melendi biografía, canciones y discografia | Melendi". Melendioficial.com. Retrieved 11 July 2019.
- ^ "Biografía de Melendi". Coveralia.com. Retrieved 11 July 2019.
- ^ Digital, Periodista (23 May 2018). "Melendi confiesa el motivo real de su cambio radical". Periodista Digital (in Spanish). Retrieved 11 July 2019.
- ^ 20Minutos (16 September 2008). "Melendi: "Gracias al incidente del avión me planteé muchas cosas de la vida"". 20minutos.es (in Spanish). Retrieved 11 July 2019.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "Melendi, detenido por alterar el orden público en pleno vuelo Madrid-México | elmundo.es". Elmundo.es.
- ^ "Melendi: "Pido disculpas"". Elpais.com. 14 November 2007.
- ^ "El disc". CCMA (in Catalan). Retrieved 17 June 2021.
- ^ "Melendi estrena portada para su nuevo disco 'Lágrimas desordenadas', que verá la luz el 13 de noviembre". Bekia.es (in Spanish). Retrieved 12 December 2019.
- ^ "Melendi estrena 'Tocado y hundido', anticipo del álbum 'Un alumno más'". Elcomercio.es (in European Spanish). 10 September 2014. Retrieved 12 December 2019.
- ^ "Melendi estrena anticipo del álbum "Un alumno más"". Cubasi.cu. Retrieved 12 December 2019.
- ^ Jun 5 (5 June 2017). "MELENDI LANZA SINGLE Y VIDEO "DESTINO O CASUALIDAD" feat. HA*ASH". OSSOM! (in Spanish). Retrieved 17 April 2020.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ Corbalan, Miguel (18 December 2017). "Melendi lanza "Yo Me Veo Contigo" una caja de lujo con todos sus éxitos". Tango Diario (in Spanish). Retrieved 21 May 2021.
- ^ Diezminutos.es, Por (23 October 2019). "Melendi triunfa en México por su papel como coach en 'La Voz Kids'". Diez Minutos (in European Spanish). Retrieved 12 December 2019.
- ^ "Melendi: Melendi lanza su nuevo trabajo en el que reune 10 temas y 1 balada". HOLA (in Spanish). 30 November 2019. Retrieved 21 May 2021.
- ^ Feijoo, Bolivar. "MELENDI estrena hoy su nuevo disco 10:20:40 | Wow La Revista". wowlarevista.com. Retrieved 21 May 2021.
- ^ "Melendi's problems were just with the speculation" (in Spanish). Los40. 27 April 2005. Retrieved 28 November 2022.
- ^ "Melendi's daughter is born" (in Spanish). El Mundo. 3 December 2019. Retrieved 28 November 2022.
- ^ "Melendi's video showed his partner included" (in Spanish). Genius lyrics. 18 June 2013. Retrieved 28 November 2022.
- ^ "Melendi, detenido por alterar el orden público en pleno vuelo Madrid-México". El Mundo. 13 November 2007. Retrieved 6 April 2025.
- ^ "Melendi: "Me cuesta oír mis primeros discos porque no me reconozco"". El Mundo. 23 September 2004. Retrieved 6 April 2025.
- ^ Roiz, Jessica (15 March 2017). "Melendi on His U.S. Tour, Songwriting & Artistic Growth". Billboard. Retrieved 6 April 2025.
- ^ a b Peak chart positions in Spanish:
- All except notes: "Melendi in spanishcharts.com". spanishcharts.com. Hung Medien. Retrieved 6 March 2011.
- Curiosa la cara de tu padre: "Curiosa la cara de tu padre – Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- Volvamos a empezar: "Top 100 Albumes – Semana 44: del 01.11.2010 al 07.11.2010". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- Lágrimas desordenadas: "Top 100 Albumes – Semana 4: del 21.01.2013 al 27.01.2013". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- Un alumno más: "Top 100 Albumes – Semana 48: del 24.11.2014 al 30.11.2014". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- Directo a septiembre: "Top 100 Albumes – Semana 53: del 25.12.2015 al 31.12.2015". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- Quítate las gafas: "Top 100 Álbumes — Semana 46: del 11.11.2016 al 17.11.2016". elportaldemusica.es (in Spanish). Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
- Ahora: "Top 100 Álbumes – Semana 11: del 09.03.2018 al 15.03.2018" (PDF). elportaldemusica.es (in Spanish). Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 22 March 2018.
- 10:20:40: "Top 100 Albumes – Semana 49: del 29.11.2019 al 5.12.2019". elportaldemusica.es (in Spanish). Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 12 December 2019.
- ^ "Curiosa la cara de tu padre – Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- ^ "Volvamos a empezar – Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- ^ "Lágrimas desordenadas – Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- ^ "Un alumno más – Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- ^ "Directo desde Septiembre- Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- ^ "Quítate las gafas – Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- ^ "AHORA – Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- ^ "10-20-40 – Melendi". elportaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- ^ "Likes y Cicatrices – Melendi". El portal de Música. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 26 January 2023.
- ^ a b "Yo me veo contigo – Melendi", PROMUSICAE, El Portal de Musica, retrieved 24 May 2021
- ^ "20 Años Sin Noticias – Melendi", PROMUSICAE, El Portal de Musica, retrieved 26 November 2023
- ^ "Spanish ringtone certifications" (in Spanish). Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 17 June 2022. Select Canciones under "Categoría", select 2008 under "Año". Select 52 under "Semana". Click on "BUSCAR LISTA".
- ^ Destino o casualidad (feat. Ha*Ash) – Single de Melendi (in European Spanish), retrieved 21 May 2021
- ^ a b "Destino o Casualidad – Melendi". portaldemusica.es. Productores de Música de España. Retrieved 16 April 2020.
- ^ "Certificaciones" (in Spanish). Asociación Mexicana de Productores de Fonogramas y Videogramas. Type Melendi in the box under the ARTISTA column heading and Destino o Casualidad in the box under the TÍTULO column heading.
- ^ "American single certifications – Melendi – Destino o Casualidad". Recording Industry Association of America.
- ^ Mírame (Acústico) – Single de Melendi (in European Spanish), retrieved 21 May 2021
- ^ Aves de Paso – Single de Melendi (in European Spanish), retrieved 21 May 2021
- ^ Besos a la Lona – Single de Melendi (in European Spanish), retrieved 21 May 2021
- ^ El cielo nunca cambiará (Banda sonora original de Cómo entrenar a tu dragón 3)- Single de Melendi (in European Spanish), retrieved 21 May 2021
- ^ Dímelo – Single de Melendi & Andy Clay (in European Spanish), retrieved 21 May 2021
- ^ Por Encima de la Bruma – Single de Melendi (in European Spanish), retrieved 21 May 2021
- ^ El Ciego – Single de Melendi & Cali y El Dandee (in European Spanish), retrieved 21 May 2021
- ^ "Melendi anuncia nuevas fechas para su gira 20 Años Sin Noticias". Los 40 (in Spanish). Retrieved 30 March 2025.
- ^ "Conciertos". Melendi Official Website (in Spanish). Retrieved 30 March 2025.
External links
[edit]
Melendi
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Early life
Childhood in Oviedo
Ramón Melendi Espina was born on January 21, 1979, in Oviedo, the capital of Asturias in northern Spain.[6][7] He grew up in a working-class family with deep Asturian roots, though his paternal grandfather hailed from Camagüey, Cuba, which influenced the household's cultural blend; his father was also born in Asturias, and the family resided in a traditional "indiana" house typical of those built by returning emigrants from the Americas.[8] The young Melendi spent his early years navigating the working-class neighborhoods of San Lázaro and the historic old town (casco antiguo) of Oviedo, environments that shaped his street-smart persona.[9] Melendi's formative education took place at the Instituto Leopoldo Alas Clarín in Oviedo, where he attended classes alongside future Formula One champion Fernando Alonso during one school year; the two shared a brief but memorable connection that later inspired Melendi's song "El Nano."[10][11] He showed little aptitude or interest in academics, often describing himself as not suited for studying. Instead, his non-musical passions centered on sports and local Oviedo culture; soccer emerged as a primary interest, with Melendi excelling enough to play semi-professionally in lower divisions and even aspiring to a career in the sport, reflecting the city's strong football tradition embodied by teams like Real Oviedo.[7][12] During his childhood, Melendi encountered the vibrant regional music of Asturias, a region rich in Celtic-influenced folk traditions, while also gaining initial exposure to broader Spanish styles such as flamenco and rumba through family stories tied to his Cuban heritage and the diverse cultural exchanges in working-class communities.[13] This early immersion in rhythmic, expressive sounds from southern Spain and Latin America laid subtle groundwork for his later artistic path, though his pre-teen years remained focused on everyday Oviedo life.Early musical influences
During his adolescence in Oviedo, Melendi discovered key musical influences among prominent Spanish and Latin American singer-songwriters, including Joaquín Sabina and Joan Manuel Serrat, whose poetic lyrics and raw storytelling resonated with his emerging artistic sensibilities. He has acknowledged these similarities in interviews, noting that as cantautores, they share stylistic overlaps in their narrative-driven songs. Although less explicitly documented in early accounts, the broader tradition of socially conscious Latin American folk, influenced by his Cuban heritage, also contributed to the cultural backdrop inspiring young artists like Melendi during this period. In his late teens, around age 15 or 16, Melendi began learning guitar as a self-taught musician, initially playing sporadically at his grandfather's house before developing a deeper passion for the instrument. This autodidactic approach extended to songwriting, where he started composing personal pieces without formal training or sharing them widely at first. These early creative efforts laid the groundwork for his distinctive style, blending personal introspection with accessible melodies. Melendi's pre-professional involvement in music included participating in Oviedo's local amateur scenes, notably as part of the band El Bosque de Sherwood around 2001, where he performed in informal settings like bars and small venues. These experiences allowed him to hone his craft amid the vibrant Asturian music community, fostering connections and refining his live performance skills before pursuing a solo path. To support himself during this time, Melendi worked as a waiter in bars, experiences that profoundly influenced his early lyrical themes of everyday struggles, resilience, and social observation, reflecting the realities of his surroundings.[13]Career
2003–2006: Debut and early success
In April 2002, Melendi signed with the independent label Carlito Records, a subsidiary of EMI Music Spain, marking his entry into the professional music industry after years of performing in local Asturian bars and clubs.[14] This deal led to the recording of his debut album, Sin noticias de Holanda, which was released on February 11, 2003, featuring 12 original tracks blending urban rumba, pop, and flamenco influences drawn from his street-level experiences.[15] The album achieved commercial success in Spain, peaking at number 46 on the Promusicae albums chart and eventually selling over 200,000 copies, earning a 2× Platinum certification from Promusicae in 2004 for shipments exceeding 200,000 units.[16][17] Key singles from the album, including "Mi rumbita pa tus pies" and "Desde mi ventana," drove its momentum through extensive radio airplay on Spanish stations like Los 40 Principales, helping establish Melendi's raw, narrative-driven style with audiences in urban and regional markets.[18] These tracks, released starting in mid-2003, captured his humorous and irreverent lyricism, contributing to the album's breakthrough by topping regional airplay charts and garnering rotation on national pop programs.[19] Following the album's release, Melendi assembled a backing band consisting of local musicians from Madrid, including guitarists, percussionists, and a rhythm section, to support his live performances.[20] He embarked on an initial tour across Spain in 2003–2004, playing intimate venues, festivals like the Feria de Abril in Seville, and club circuits in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, where his energetic sets built a grassroots fanbase through word-of-mouth and sold-out smaller halls.[19] By 2005–2006, these shows had expanded to larger theaters, solidifying his reputation as a compelling live act with improvisational elements rooted in flamenco-rock fusion. Amid his rising profile, Melendi faced personal challenges, including the birth of his first daughter, Carlota, in 2005, which brought new responsibilities while he navigated the demands of touring and publicity.[21] This period also saw early media scrutiny over his candid admissions of a troubled youth involving petty crime and substance issues, which inadvertently boosted his "street poet" image and generated tabloid coverage that amplified his debut's publicity in Spain.[22]2007–2010: Breakthrough albums
Following the success of his debut, Melendi's second album, Que el cielo espere sentao, released in late 2005 but achieving peak impact in 2006, marked a significant step in his rising profile, selling over 200,000 copies in Spain.[23] The album featured upbeat tracks blending pop and flamenco influences, with the single "Caminando por la vida" reaching number one on Spanish charts, solidifying his appeal through its optimistic, life-affirming lyrics.[24] This period also saw Melendi receive the Best Tour award at the 2007 Premios de la Música ceremony in Córdoba, recognizing his growing live performances that drew large audiences across Spain.[2] In 2008, Melendi released his third studio album, Curiosa la cara de tu padre, on September 16, which earned Platinum certification in Spain for sales exceeding 80,000 units.[25] Produced by José de Castro, the record explored more introspective themes, including relationships and personal growth, with lead single "Un violinista en tu tejado" becoming a radio staple and contributing to the album's commercial breakthrough.[1] This release highlighted Melendi's evolving songwriting, shifting toward narratives that reflected maturity while retaining his signature rhythmic energy. The birth of his daughter Carlota in 2005 profoundly influenced Melendi's lyrics during this era, infusing songs with themes of family, responsibility, and emotional depth, as seen in tracks like "Carlota," a direct tribute to his child.[1] By 2010, this personal evolution culminated in Volvamos a empezar, released on November 2, which achieved Gold status in Spain.[1][16] The album's title track and others emphasized renewal and introspection, further boosting Melendi's popularity and setting the stage for broader experimentation in subsequent years.2011–2015: Consolidation and experimentation
During this period, Melendi solidified his position in the Spanish music scene with the release of his sixth studio album, Lágrimas desordenadas, on November 13, 2012. The album debuted at number 2 on the Spanish Albums Chart (PROMUSICAE) and charted for 104 weeks, earning platinum certification for sales exceeding 40,000 units.[26] The title track became a standout single, peaking at number 3 on the Spanish Singles Chart and spending 45 weeks there, exemplifying Melendi's signature blend of introspective lyrics and pop-rock melodies.[27] Other notable tracks included "Cheque al portamor" and "Tu jardín con enanitos," which highlighted his storytelling approach without major collaborations, focusing instead on personal themes of love and resilience. In 2014, to mark the 10th anniversary of his solo career debut, Melendi launched the Gira 10 Aniversario, a tour across Spain and Latin America featuring re-recorded versions of his early hits like "Mi buen amor" and "Barbie de extrarradio."[28] This milestone run emphasized his evolution, incorporating acoustic arrangements that brought a more intimate, stripped-back feel to his performances, drawing on flamenco-infused rhythms rooted in his Asturian heritage. The tour not only celebrated past successes but also built anticipation for his next studio work, reinforcing his live draw with sold-out venues. Melendi's seventh studio album, Un alumno más, arrived on November 25, 2014, debuting at number 1 on the Spanish Albums Chart and remaining for 99 weeks, with year-end rankings of 7 in 2014 and 9 in 2015.[29][30] Critically acclaimed for its maturity and honesty, the record experimented with longer, more narrative-driven compositions, such as the seven-minute "Saraluna," blending acoustic guitar elements and subtle flamenco flourishes with his established pop-rock foundation.[1] Key singles like "La promesa" and the title track further showcased this shift toward deeper emotional exploration, without prominent guest features, solidifying Melendi's reputation as a versatile songwriter. Capping the era, Melendi released the live album Directo a septiembre (Gira Un Alumno Más) on December 4, 2015, capturing performances from his tour at Madrid's Las Ventas bullring.[31] Peaking at number 4 on the charts, the double-disc set included 28 tracks spanning his catalog, highlighting acoustic reinterpretations and flamenco-tinged energy in a concert setting that underscored his experimental leanings and enduring appeal. This release earned him the 2015 Premio de la Música award, recognizing his artistic growth.[1]2016–2019: Television and Quítate las gafas
In 2016, Melendi returned to television as a coach on the fourth season of the Spanish singing competition La Voz, marking his second stint on the show after participating in its inaugural edition in 2012. This role significantly boosted his public visibility, exposing him to a broader audience through the program's high ratings on Telecinco.[32] That same year, Melendi released his eighth studio album, Quítate las gafas, on November 11, which debuted at number one on the Spanish charts and was later certified platinum by PROMUSICAE for sales exceeding 40,000 units. The album featured introspective tracks blending pop and rock elements, with standout singles including "Desde que estamos juntos," a duet with singer-songwriter Juan Magán that peaked at number one on LOS40 and earned a nomination for Song of the Year at the 18th Latin Grammy Awards. Another key single, "Destino o casualidad," further solidified the album's commercial success, contributing to its overall impact during the tour of the same name. Building on this momentum, Melendi joined La Voz Kids as a coach starting with its fourth season in 2018, where his team, led by young talent Melani García, won the competition, enhancing his reputation as a mentor and further elevating his profile among family audiences on Antena 3. In March 2018, he released the EP Ahora, which included collaborations like "Déjala que baile" with Cali y El Dandee and the duo Ha*Ash; the project topped the charts and achieved platinum certification.[33][34] The period culminated in November 2019 with the release of 10:20:40, Melendi's tenth studio album, titled to reflect his age milestones (10, 20, and 40 years old). It debuted at number one and was certified platinum, featuring the reggaeton-infused track "El Ciego" in collaboration with Cali y El Dandee, which became a radio hit. The album's themes of personal growth and relationships underscored Melendi's evolving artistry, capping a prolific era of television exposure and musical output.[35][36]2020–2023: Post-pandemic releases and anniversary
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted Melendi's live performances, leading to the postponement of several concerts, including his scheduled show in Puerto Rico originally set for March 2021, which was rescheduled to September 2021 due to health restrictions.[37] In response, Melendi adapted by participating in virtual events, such as the online Día de la Música celebration on June 21, 2020, where he performed alongside artists like Juan Magán and Chenoa to honor victims of the virus.[38] This shift emphasized digital platforms for music releases and fan engagement, allowing him to continue connecting with audiences remotely amid canceled tours. In 2021, Melendi released his eleventh studio album, Likes y Cicatrices, on November 5, recorded between September 2020 and July 2021 at studios in Spain, and certified Gold by Promusicae in 2023.[39][16] The album featured collaborations with artists such as Mau y Ricky on the lead single "La Boca Junta," which explored themes of connection and resilience, and Carlos Rivera on "El Único Habitante de tu Piel."[40] Produced under Sony Music, it marked a post-pandemic return to pop-rock with urban influences, receiving distribution on platforms like Spotify and Tidal.[41] Building toward his 20th career anniversary, Melendi issued the retrospective compilation 20 Años Sin Noticias on November 10, 2023, commemorating two decades since his debut Sin Noticias de Holanda, and certified Platinum by Promusicae in May 2025.[42][16] The album blended re-recorded classics with new tracks, including "Si Ella Supiera" (a 2022 collaboration with India Martínez revisited for the project) and "Sé Lo Que Hicisteis" featuring Natos y Waor, which debuted as a single on November 9, 2023, and addressed personal reflections through rap-infused lyrics.[43] Other fresh collaborations included "Con la Luna Llena" with Manuel Carrasco and "Hablando en Plata" with Hens, highlighting Melendi's evolution while honoring his origins.[44] Closing the year, Melendi released the festive single "Llegó la Navidad" on December 15, 2023, a family-oriented Christmas track evoking warmth and reunion, performed in a crooner style with orchestral elements.[45] The song's video emphasized familial bonds, aligning with the holiday theme of rediscovering love and peace, and was distributed via Sony Music for streaming on Apple Music and Spotify.[46]2024–present: Recent singles and ongoing projects
In 2024, Melendi released the single "El Apagón" in collaboration with Malú, marking a nostalgic return to his rock-infused roots while blending contemporary pop elements.[47] This track, produced under Sony Music Entertainment España, served as a precursor to his ongoing anniversary initiatives and received positive reception for its emotional depth and duet chemistry.[48] Building on the momentum from his 2023 anniversary album 20 Años Sin Noticias, which featured re-recorded versions of classics like "Caminando por la Vida" with David Bisbal, Melendi continued celebrations into 2025 with vinyl reissues of early works. Notable releases included limited-edition colored vinyl editions of Volvamos a Empezar in red and Lágrimas Desordenadas in yellow, both scheduled for December 2025 distribution, aimed at collectors and fans commemorating two decades since his debut.[49][50] A highlight of 2025 was the release of "Himno del Centenario Real Oviedo" on July 10, composed and performed by Melendi to honor the 100th anniversary of his hometown football club, Real Oviedo.[51] The anthem, released via Sony Music, captures themes of heritage and resilience, reflecting Melendi's deep personal ties to Asturias, and was accompanied by an official music video filmed in Oviedo.[52] Melendi reprised his role as a coach on the ninth season of La Voz Kids on Antena 3 in 2024, alongside David Bisbal, Rosario Flores, and Lola Índigo, where he mentored young talents through emotional performances and provided guidance on song interpretation. His involvement extended to co-coaching segments with artists like Mau & Ricky, emphasizing collaborative artistry during the show's Asaltos and finales.[53] The "20 Años Sin Noticias" tour, launched in late 2023 to mark two decades of his debut album Sin Noticias de Holanda, extended into 2025 with international dates across Spain, the United States, Colombia, and Ecuador.[54] Performances, such as the June 13 show at Miami's Kaseya Center, featured setlists blending anniversary tracks with fan favorites, solidifying his status under Sony Music while hinting at potential new material through live improvisations.[5] As of November 2025, no new studio album has been announced, though tour extensions suggest continued focus on commemorative projects.[4]Personal life
Family and relationships
Melendi has had three significant long-term relationships that have shaped his personal life. His first partnership was with Miriam Martínez de la Vega, lasting approximately from 2000 to 2005, during which they welcomed their daughter Carlota on August 18, 2005. The birth of Carlota profoundly influenced Melendi, as he later described her as having "come to save me from myself," prompting a major shift in his lifestyle toward greater stability and responsibility.[55][56] Following the end of that relationship, Melendi entered a partnership with singer Damaris Abad, known professionally as La Dama, from 2006 to 2014. Together, they had a son, Marco, born on November 15, 2010. The couple's separation was amicable, with a focus on co-parenting; Abad has publicly praised Melendi's dedication as a father to Marco, noting his active involvement despite their past romantic split. Fatherhood with Marco further reinforced Melendi's commitment to family, influencing decisions to balance his touring schedule with more time at home.[57][58][59] In 2014, Melendi began a relationship with Argentine actress and dancer Julia Nakamatsu, whom he married in September 2019 in a private ceremony at El Escorial, Spain. The couple has three daughters: Lola, born February 13, 2016; Abril, born February 6, 2019; and Dakota, born November 11, 2023. This family expansion has led to notable life changes, including a relocation in early 2025 to Mar del Plata, Argentina, where Melendi purchased a home to provide his children with a calmer, coastal environment away from the intensity of Madrid life, while continuing his career from there.[60][61][62][63][64][65] As a father of five, Melendi has often adjusted his professional commitments to accommodate family needs, such as shortening tours or announcing personal milestones like Dakota's birth during live performances. He has expressed that fatherhood remains "the most beautiful thing that has happened to me," crediting it with ongoing personal growth and perspective shifts. Regarding family privacy, Melendi has maintained a low profile on his children's lives, rarely sharing images until a family photo in December 2023 marked the first public glimpse of all five together; he continues to shield them from media scrutiny to foster normalcy.[66][67][68]Heritage and personal revelations
Melendi, born in Oviedo, Asturias, has consistently expressed deep pride in his regional heritage, often highlighting the rugged landscapes, resilient spirit, and cultural traditions of Asturias as integral to his identity. Growing up in a traditional "indiana" house—architectural remnants built by Asturian emigrants returning from the Americas—he internalized the values of hard work and community that define Asturian culture, beyond his musical expressions. This connection manifests in his public affirmations of regional loyalty, such as dedicating performances to Asturian symbols and emphasizing the area's natural beauty and historical fortitude in interviews.[8][69] In early 2023, Melendi publicly revealed his paternal grandfather's Cuban origins from Camagüey, a discovery that profoundly shaped his sense of identity despite never meeting the man. This heritage, uncovered through family stories and personal reflection, explained his longstanding affinity for Cuban communities and rhythms, influencing his worldview and emotional ties to the island's culture. He described growing up in an environment infused with indirect Caribbean influences via the "indiana" legacy, which bridged his Asturian roots with a broader Hispanic identity.[70][71] On a personal level, Melendi has shared his struggles with drug addiction and depression in his twenties, culminating in a voluntary stay at a rehabilitation clinic in Colombia around 2007, where he credits alternative therapies like Reiki for his recovery. This period marked a pivotal self-revelation, as he confronted the toll on his well-being and decided to prioritize sobriety after witnessing his parents' distress, leading to a transformed outlook on life.[72][73][74] Melendi's philanthropy reflects his commitment to social causes unrelated to his professional life, including charitable concerts for organizations like Save the Children to aid malnourished children in Africa's Horn and recent efforts supporting ALS research and DANA flood victims in Valencia, where he donated over 330,000 euros from a 2025 benefit show. In response to public scrutiny over his past addictions and personal choices, he has maintained a stance of accountability, addressing concerns in interviews by emphasizing growth and rejecting relapse rumors while focusing on positive contributions.[75][76][77][78]Artistry
Musical style and evolution
Melendi's musical style emerged in the early 2000s with a raw fusion of flamenco, rumba, and rock, characterized by energetic rhythms and gritty instrumentation that reflected his Asturian roots and urban experiences. His debut album, Sin Noticias de Holanda (2003), exemplified this "rumba canalla" approach, blending percussive rumba beats with electric guitar riffs and flamenco flourishes to create a streetwise sound that captured the raw energy of youth culture.[79][80] Lyrically, early works delved into social issues such as drug addiction and marginalization, often delivered with a direct, narrative-driven intensity that established his reputation as a storyteller in the Spanish pop landscape.[80] Production in this phase was unpolished, emphasizing live-band dynamics with minimal studio effects to preserve an authentic, rebellious edge.[79] By the late 2000s and into the 2010s, Melendi's sound began to evolve toward a more accessible pop-rock hybrid, incorporating orchestral elements and smoother arrangements while retaining traces of his flamenco-rumba origins. The album Volvamos a Empezar (2010) marked a noticeable shift toward harder rock influences, with amplified guitars and bolder tempos that contrasted his earlier rumba dominance, signaling a maturation in production that included tighter band cohesion and subtle electronic touches.[80] This period, spanning 2011–2015, saw further consolidation with acoustic-leaning explorations in works like Lágrimas Desordenadas (2012), where introspective ballads and stripped-down instrumentation highlighted personal reflection alongside enduring themes of love and loss, fostering a more emotional, radio-friendly polish.[81] Band changes during these years introduced versatile session musicians, enhancing the shift from raw ensemble playing to layered, melodic structures that broadened his appeal.[82] The mid-2010s onward accelerated Melendi's pivot to contemporary pop fusion, integrating electronic elements, Latin rhythms, and global influences for a more expansive, commercial sound. Quítate las Gafas (2016) represented a pivotal turn, abandoning heavier rock for sleek pop and ballads infused with Latin sonorities and subtle electronic production, allowing for greater lyrical vulnerability on themes of self-discovery and romance.[83] This evolution continued in Ahora (2018), which experimented with rap verses, gospel choirs, and electronic arrangements alongside traditional pop frameworks, reflecting a production philosophy that prioritized innovation and cross-genre collaboration to address personal growth and societal observations.[84] In the 2020s, Melendi embraced retrospective blends, as seen in 20 Años Sin Noticias (2023), where classic rumba and flamenco motifs merge with modern pop-rock structures, underscoring a cyclical evolution that honors his origins while adapting to contemporary production techniques like digital layering and diverse guest features.[85] Throughout, his songwriting has consistently woven love, introspection, and social commentary, evolving from provocative tales to nuanced, universal narratives that resonate across generations.[86]Influences and songwriting
Melendi's songwriting draws heavily from the lyrical traditions of Spanish and Latin American singer-songwriters, with Joaquín Sabina emerging as a primary influence for his sharp, narrative-driven lyricism that blends humor, irony, and social observation. In interviews, Melendi has described Sabina as a "maestro" whose work he has listened to extensively, crediting him with shaping his approach to crafting vivid, street-level stories in songs. Similarly, Joan Manuel Serrat's folk sensibilities, rooted in poetic depictions of everyday life and regional identity, have informed Melendi's integration of cultural heritage into his compositions, as he has cited Serrat alongside other cantautores for inspiring his thematic focus on personal and collective experiences. The poetry of Silvio Rodríguez, emblematic of the Cuban nueva trova movement, further resonates in Melendi's emphasis on introspective, socially conscious verses that explore human emotions and societal undercurrents, echoing Rodríguez's influence on broader Spanish-language songwriting traditions.[87][88] Central to Melendi's songwriting habits is an autobiographical approach, where he weaves personal anecdotes and life reflections into his lyrics, often composing simultaneously with music on the guitar to ensure an organic flow between melody and narrative. This method allows for raw, confessional storytelling, as seen in tracks that chronicle his evolution from youthful rebellion to mature introspection, drawing directly from lived experiences like family dynamics and regional pride. He frequently incorporates Asturian slang and expressions—such as "mozuca" for a young woman in "La mi mozuca"—to infuse his work with authentic regional flavor, grounding universal themes in his Oviedo roots and evoking a sense of place that strengthens emotional resonance. Regarding collaborations, Melendi favors partnerships that enhance thematic depth, often working with Latin American artists to blend cultural elements, though he maintains primary control over lyrical content to preserve his personal voice.[87][89][90] Melendi's legacy in the Spanish pop-flamenco genre lies in his role as a bridge between traditional flamenco rhythms and contemporary pop accessibility, popularizing a fusion that has broadened the genre's appeal to younger audiences while maintaining narrative authenticity. His mentorship of emerging artists, particularly through his tenure as a coach on La Voz Kids, has positioned him as a guide for new talents, emphasizing emotional honesty in songwriting and fostering collaborations with rising acts like Pole and Hens on recent tours. Critics have increasingly praised the thematic depth of his later work, noting a shift toward introspective lyrics addressing personal conflicts, social critiques, and emotional maturity, which marks a maturation beyond his early rumba-influenced output.[90][91][92]Discography
Studio albums
Melendi's studio albums span over two decades, beginning with his debut in 2003 and reflecting his growth as a singer-songwriter blending rock, flamenco, pop, and urban influences. Initially signed to independent label Carlito Records, he transitioned to major labels including Capitol and EMI in the mid-2000s, Warner Music (under WEA) from 2010 to 2015, and Sony Music starting in 2016, which marked a shift toward broader pop accessibility. His releases have consistently topped Spanish charts, contributing to over four million records sold worldwide.[93] Key albums often feature introspective lyrics on love, life, and personal struggles, with standout tracks driving radio play and streaming success.| Album Title | Release Date | Label | Peak Chart Position (Spain) | Certifications (PROMUSICAE) | Key Tracks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sin Noticias de Holanda | July 12, 2003 | Carlito Records | 11 | 2× Platinum (160,000 units) | "Sin noticias de Holanda", "Yo me veo contigo"[94][95] |
| Que el Cielo Espere Sentao | April 25, 2005 | Carlito Records | 1 | 2× Platinum (200,000 units) | "Que el cielo espere sentao", "Si te vas"[13] |
| Mientras No Cueste Trabajo | November 13, 2006 | Capitol Records | 1 | 2× Platinum (160,000 units) | "Mientras no cueste trabajo", "El rey de la carretera" |
| Curiosa la Cara de Tu Padre | September 16, 2008 | EMI/Capitol | 1 | Platinum (100,000 units) | "Un violinista en tu tejado", "Caminando por la vida" |
| Volvamos a Empezar | November 2, 2010 | WEA (Warner) | 2 | Gold (50,000 units) | "Cámaras de fotos", "Déjame entrar" |
| Lágrimas Desordenadas | November 13, 2012 | WEA (Warner) | 1 | 3× Platinum (300,000 units) | "Tu jardín con enanitos", "Lágrimas desordenadas" |
| Un Alumno Más | November 25, 2014 | Warner Music Spain | 1 | 2× Platinum (200,000 units) | "La promesa", "Un alumno más"[13] |
| Quítate las Gafas | November 11, 2016 | Sony Music Spain | 1 | 2× Platinum (120,000 units) | "La casa en el árbol", "Quítate las gafas" |
| Ahora | March 9, 2018 | Sony Music Spain | 1 | Platinum (80,000 units) | "Ahora", "Ay páralo"[96][13] |
| 10:20:40 | November 29, 2019 | Sony Music Spain | 1 | Gold (20,000 units) | "El arca de Noé II", "10:20:40"[97][98] |
| Likes y Cicatrices | November 5, 2021 | Sony Music Spain | 2 | Gold (20,000 units) | "Likes y cicatrices", "Vivo"[99][100] |