85 years since the birth of Robert Cantorial

Today's Doodle, illustrated by guest artist Totoi Semerena, celebrates Mexican pianist, guitarist, singer, poet, activist and composer Robert Cantoral. He achieved an eruption of romantic Latino pop with beloved ballads such as "El Reloj" ("The Watch") and "La Barca" ("The Boat"), which dozens of musicians recorded over 1,000 times as Placido Domingo and Linda Ronstadt.

Born in Tampico on this day in 1935, Roberto Antonio Cantoral Garcia began his career at the age of 15 when he and his brother Antonio formed the duo "Hermanos Cantoral" ("Brothers Cantoral"). But his music achieved general success when he teamed up with Chamin Correa and Leonel Galver, forming a trio aptly named "Los Tres Caballeros" ("Three Gentlemen").

The trio traveled far and wide during the 1950s, taking their romantic ballads on world tours in countries from Japan to Argentina. In 1960, Cantoral erupted alone. His original solo compositions were performed by some of Mexico’s most distinguished singers, and he continued to share his music with the world throughout the 2000s, performing at music festivals, radio shows and TV programs in over 120 countries.

Along with his musical heritage, Cantoral has advocated for the protection of the composer’s intellectual property as honorary president of the Mexican Society of Composers and Authors for more than 25 years. In 2009, Cantoral was awarded the 10th Latin American Grammy Awards with the Latin Academy of Recording Commissioner's Award in recognition of his commitment to music and the community.

Happy birthday, Roberto Cantoral, and may your music live forever in the hearts of listeners around the world!