@juanes grew up in Medellin, Colombia- a city, and country suffering through great strife at the time, but also possessing a culturally rich music tradition-filled with many of Latin America’s most distinctive indigenous rhythms. Having immersed himself in that traditional music throughout childhood, and then falling in love with the power of Electric guitar driven rock and metal, Juanes carved out his own distinctive fusion that he meshed with passionate songwriting that, from his very first solo album, spoke about the importance of love over violence, advocated for the aid of land mine victims and a broader right of all people to live in Peace. However, if it was not for one absolutely essential and perfectly timed gift, Juanes’ heartfelt music and message may have never reached the masses. When he first traveled from Colombia to Los Angeles in search of a way to launch a solo career, Juanes came with very little to his name, he slept on the couches of friends, and borrowed instruments, but about the same time, his obviously talented demo made its way into the hands of famed Latin Rock producer Gustavo Santaolalla, it also reached the ears of the Fender Latin music team, and it was not much longer when Juanes received a surprise all-black custom Fender electric guitar, that he still deems as one of the most beautiful gifts he has ever received. Without the Fender team recognizing his early talent, Juanes’ eventual road may not have led to 20+ year as Latin Rock’s most globally recognized Ambassador.