Johnny Ventura

Full Name: Juan de Dios Ventura
Profession: Merengue Singer and Politician

Biography: Johnny Venturea was christened the “Elvis of Merengue” for the way he was able to incorporate the sounds of rock n roll and other modern influences into the traditional Merengue music of the Dominican Republic. Throughout his long career he released more than 100 albums and won six Latin Grammy awards. In 2006 he was awarded a Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement award.

From 1962 he fronted his own band - Johnny Ventura and the Combo Show, known for the flamboyance of their live shows. In the late 1960s he achieved greater fame from his performances in America and from a number of duets that he recorded.

In later life Ventura became a politician serving as the vice mayor of Santo Domingo from 1994 to 1998, then as mayor from 1998 to 2002.

Born: March 8, 1940
Birthplace: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Dragon
Star Sign: Pisces

Died: July 28, 2021 (aged 81)
Cause of Death: Heart failure