Genres: LatinBorn Ernan Enrique Jiminez, Makano is a 17-year-old Panamanian singer. He started in the music industry at age 12 when he performed with a reggaeton band. At 16, he began writing songs and music. Despite his father's insistence that he needed to get “a real job,”
Makano
From a boy he knew that he loved the music world It was at the age of 16 when he began writing, discovering then that he had the drive and dream of becoming a singer.
Starting Young
Born Ernan Enrique Jiminez, Makano is a 17-year-old Panamanian singer. He started in the music industry at age 12 when he performed with a reggaeton band. At 16, he began writing songs and music. Despite his father's insistence that he needed to get “a real job,” Jiminez continued looking for a way into the music business. Finally, in 2004, he was asked to contribute a song to the Panama Music's CD La Alianza (The Alliance).
Because of the recognition he received for his work on this CD led to the opportunity to record and release several singles. These singles became #1 hits in Panama and Makana was gaining a name for himself and a fan base of his own. Fans could follow his activities on line, and his music could be found and downloaded at his website and various music sites.
Making a Living
Makano signed a contract with Panama Records in 2007, and released his first album, the international Te Amo. The album proffered four releases, including Te Amo (I Love You), which peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot Latin Hits chart. The album reached gold in the United States. There are thirteen tracks in all on thhe album.
Makano was making a splash elsewhere besides the United States. In Central America, his album went platinum for digital downloads of the album. He was awarded “Revelacion del Año Urbano” (Newcomer of the Year Urban) in Premios, Lo Nuestro, and he was awarded Best Breakthrough Artist and Best Hip Hop Artist in Premios' sister city, Premios, Texas. These are just a few of the nominations and awards he has received.
What's Next
Makano is currently touring and will likely be back in the recording studio when he returns home, although mo announcements have been made. His music is available at multiple sites; fans can watch his videos or purchase an mp3 download of a single or his entire album. His romantic spin on hip hop and rap styles continually bring his fans looking for something new.
In addition to recording new albums and touring the United States, Makano intends to add a few countries to each tour. These are countries he has not yet visited, such as Peru, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Did you know . . .
Makano took his name from his reggaeton with whom he had performed when he was 12. They were called Los Makanos. They had made a pact that whoever became successful first would immortalize the name of the band. The name means strong like a tree.
In 1999, well before his first ep or album, Makano took part in several national music projects. He was only 16 years old.
The video for Makano's single, Si Tu No Le Dices , was shot entirely in Panama City.