Jose Ortega Heredia, 48, Flamenco Singer, Leader of ‘Cano Roto’ Style of Music

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The New York Sun

Flamenco singer Jose Ortega Heredia, known as “Manzanita,” died Sunday at his home in the southern Spanish town of Alhaurin de la Torre. He was 48.


The singer was considered a leader of the “Cano roto” style of music, which combines traditional flamenco tunes with lighter, more popular arrangements.


Manzanita began young, accompanying flamenco star Enrique Morente on his world tours at the age of 11.


Through Morente, Manzanita developed a love for literature, especially Andalusian poets Gustavo Adolfo Becquer and Federico Garcia Lorca, whose work was to influence his lyrical style.


The rock music of Carlos Santana and the jazz improvisation of Chick Corea influenced Manzanita’s music, leading to performances full of international nuances, including Brazilian and string arrangements.


Manzanita performed in later years with stars such as Joaquin Sabina and the pop group “Mecano.”


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