Remembering Pappo, the Argentine King of the Blues on his 73rd Birth Anniversary
Norberto Aníbal “Pappo” Napolitano was a true musical genius who dedicated his entire life to music. His love for music began at a young age when he was only 5 years old and found a copy of the criolla guitar in his house. He was immediately fascinated and started to play it, and he never looked back. He went on to become one of the most influential musicians in the history of Argentine music, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene.
Throughout his career, Pappo played in numerous bands, including Los Gatos, Pappo’s Blues, and Riff. He also collaborated with many other famous musicians such as Charly Garcia, Luis Alberto Spinetta, and BB King. He was known for his unique voice and his virtuosity with the guitar, which he played with a rare passion and intensity.
Pappo was also a pioneer of the blues and rock movement in Argentina, and he introduced new styles and sounds that had never been heard before in the country. He was a true innovator who pushed the boundaries of music and inspired countless musicians who followed in his footsteps.
Even though Pappo passed away in 2005, his music lives on and continues to inspire people all over the world. He is remembered not only for his incredible talent but also for his humble and down-to-earth personality. He always remained true to his passion for music and never compromised his artistic integrity. Pappo was a true legend, and his legacy will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
On this day in 1950, Norberto Aníbal “Pappo” Napolitano was born in the Paternal neighborhood, who would become one of the greatest legends of Argentine music. Known as the Argentine king of the blues, Pappo laid the foundations of national rock and blues with his characteristic voice and undeniable talent for composition and instruments. Although Pappo left unexpectedly in 2005 after a traffic accident, his legacy remains engraved in the hearts of his thousands of fans and admirers, who continue to honor him through tributes and reproductions of his songs.
To celebrate Pappo’s birthday, here are five interesting facts about the iconic musician:
- Pappo participated in the choirs of the song “Figuración” from Almendra’s first album in 1969.
- “I Mistrust” from Pappo’s Blues Volume 2 (1972) was actually born on the piano, not the guitar.
- Pappo started playing the guitar at the age of 5 and was never separated from it.
- Pappo played with legendary blues musician BB King in 1993 at Madison Square Garden in New York.
- “Juntos a la Par” was composed by Pappo’s Blues bassist Yulie Ruth and was originally a country song until Pappo brought it into his own genre.