Jerry Rivera

Gerardo Rivera Rodríguez, known as Jerry Rivera, was born on July 31, 1973, in Humacao, Puerto Rico. Coming from a musical family, he began singing at a young age. At 14, he performed with his father at a hotel where Frankie Ruiz, a salsa artist, also sang. This experience contributed to Rivera’s early musical development. In 1988, at 16, he was signed to CBS after his father presented a demo tape. He released his debut album, “Empezando a Vivir,” in 1989, which included the track “De la Cabeza a los Pies.”

Rivera’s career gained significant momentum with his second album, “Abriendo Puertas” (1990), and particularly with “Cuenta Conmigo” (1992). “Cuenta Conmigo” achieved multi-platinum status and became one of the highest-selling salsa albums. Hit songs from this album included “Amores Como el Nuestro” and “Casi Un Hechizo.” This success established his presence in the salsaromántica genre, attracting a new audience across Latin America, the U.S., and other regions. Over his career, Rivera has released more than 20 albums, blending salsa with pop and ballad genres, and collaborating with artists such as Victor Manuelle and Voltio. He has received multiple Billboard Latin Music Awards, Lo Nuestro Awards, and Latin Grammy nominations.

In addition to his musical endeavors, Rivera has engaged in social initiatives. In 2006, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) named him a Champion of Health. He became a spokesperson for a campaign addressing violence against women and children, particularly in Latin America and among Spanish-speaking communities in the United States. His song “Ríos de dolor” became associated with this cause. Rivera has performed globally, including in Venezuela, Colombia, Honduras, Panama, the United States, Spain, Ecuador, Argentina, Peru, Mexico, Sweden, France, and Japan.