Francisco Gabilondo Soler (Cri Cri)

Francisco Gabilondo Soler was born in Orizaba, Veracruz in 1907. He studied violin and composition at the National Conservatory of Music in Mexico City. In 1934, he created the character Cri Cri, a talking cricket with a squeaky voice that became his vehicle for children's songs.

He wrote over 200 songs, including 'El Elefante Elegante' and 'El Chorrito.' Some critics at the time found his work too simple, but he believed children needed music that was both entertaining and educational.

He established the Cri Cri Foundation to promote children's music. His songs remain familiar to generations of Mexican listeners.