Latin pop singer Yahir came to the attention of listeners as a contestant on the Mexican television talent show La Academia. Born Yahir Othón Parra, he took to singing at an early age, appearing with mariachi bands when he was only eight years old. His appearance on La Academia, considered the American Idol of Mexico, catapulted him to fame and resulted not only in his 2003 self-titled debut, but led to appearances on two popular Mexican soap operas as well. In 2004 Yahir released his sophomore album, Otra Historia de Amor. ~ Wade Kergan