Cuban-American singer/songwriter Nil Lara spent most of his childhood in Venezuela, where he learned both English and Spanish while attending a local institute called Washington Academy. In addition, a small guitar known as cuatro became his major inspiration to get involved in world music. Back in the U.S., the University of Miami allowed him to do research on Cuban-related styles such as son and guajira. Nil Lara, son of a talented pianist who did not pursue a professional career, started playing locally along with Haitian and Cuban musicians. He was captivating with his melodic vocals and lyrics that were based on personal experiences. After debuting with My First Child, a self-titled album followed in 1996. ~ Drago Bonacich