Jorge Drexler

Early Life

Jorge Abner Drexler Prada was born on September 21, 1964, in Montevideo, Uruguay. He is the eldest child of Gunther Drexler Schlein, a German Jew who fled Nazi persecution, and Lucero Prada da Silveira, who has mixed Spanish, French, and Portuguese ancestry. Raised in a Jewish household, Drexler began his musical journey at the tender age of five, learning piano before transitioning to guitar and composition classes. Despite his passion for music, he pursued a medical degree, graduating from the University of the Republic and specializing in otorhinolaryngology. During his medical studies, he took a break to hitchhike through Brazil, which likely influenced his artistic perspective.

Career

Drexler's music career took off in 1995 when he opened for Spanish singer-songwriter Joaquín Sabina in Montevideo. This performance led to an invitation to Madrid, where he recorded his album "Vaivén" in 1996. Over the years, he released several albums, including "Llueve" (1997), "Frontera" (1999), and "Eco" (2004). His song "Al Otro Lado del Río" from the film "The Motorcycle Diaries" won him the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2005, making him the first Uruguayan to win an Oscar. Following this success, he released "12 Segundos de Oscuridad" in 2006, showcasing his ability to blend original compositions with covers.

Personal Life

Drexler was previously married to singer-songwriter Ana Laan and is currently in a relationship with Spanish actress and singer Leonor Watling, with whom he has two children. His family is deeply rooted in music, with siblings who are also musicians and cousins in related fields.

Legacy

Drexler's contributions to music have earned him numerous accolades, including 13 Latin Grammy Awards and a Goya Award for Best Original Score. His work has not only enriched the Spanish music scene but has also paved the way for future generations of artists from Uruguay and beyond.