Olimpo Cárdenas came from La Loma, Cesar, and taught himself guitar and singing. His 1971 debut album 'Fatalidad' included the title track, a ballad that became a classic in Colombian music. Songs like 'La Pena de No Verte' and 'Pesimismo' showed his way with heartache and longing.
In 1981, he was in a car accident that left him partially paralyzed. He returned to performing, adapting his style to his physical condition. During the 1980s and 1990s, he put out albums such as 'Reflejos del Tiempo' and 'La Distancia', working with musicians like accordionist Ángel Fontanilla.
His music drew from vallenato but also touched on bolero and other forms. He died in 2009. Other artists, including Carlos Vives, have covered his songs.
Keep it compact: a lyric you come back to, a live memory, or the part of the catalog you would point someone toward first.
Sign in to post the first listener note. Reporting stays open to everyone.