Son of musician and researcher Porfirio Vásquez, singer/songwriter Pepe Vásquez started singing and playing guitar at a very young age, performing a folk genre originated in black Peruvian communities to preserve their heritage. After attending Lima's Conservatory of Music, Pepe Vásquez became one of the most popular local artists, creating his own style by combining Afro-Peruvian and Caribbean rhythms. He made his international debut with the release of Ritmo de Negros in November 2000. ~ Drago Bonacich