José Feliciano

Early Life

José Montserrate Feliciano García was born on September 10, 1945, in Lares, Puerto Rico, as the fourth child in a family of eleven sons. He was born blind due to congenital glaucoma, but this did not deter his passion for music. At the age of three, he began playing music on a cracker tin can alongside his uncle, who played the cuatro. His family moved to Spanish Harlem, New York City, when he was five, where he made his first public appearance at the Teatro Puerto Rico. By age seven, he had taught himself to play the accordion, and at nine, he received his first guitar from his father. Feliciano practiced for up to 14 hours a day, drawing inspiration from rock and roll, classical guitarists, and jazz musicians.

Career

Feliciano's professional journey began in the 1960s when he gained recognition in coffee houses and clubs, particularly in Greenwich Village, New York. He was discovered at Gerde's Folk City and signed by RCA Victor. His first single, "Everybody Do the Click," became a hit in the Philippines. He released his debut albums, including "The Voice and Guitar of José Feliciano" and "A Bag Full of Soul," showcasing his unique blend of folk, pop, and soul music. Feliciano is best known for his rendition of the Doors' "Light My Fire" and his original Christmas classic "Feliz Navidad," which have become international hits.

Personal Life

José Feliciano has been married twice. His first marriage to Janna Pérez ended in divorce in 1978. He later married Susan Omillian in 1982, with whom he has two sons and a daughter. The couple resides in Weston, Connecticut. Feliciano has faced challenges, including a controversial parody of "Feliz Navidad" in 2009, which he publicly denounced as a vehicle for racism and hate. Despite these challenges, he has received numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, solidifying his legacy as a pioneering figure in Latin music.