Image Courtesy: Google Doodle
Gustavo Adrián Cerati Clarke (11 August 1959 – 4 September 2014) was a renowned Argentine musician, singer-songwriter, and record producer, best known as the frontman, vocalist, composer, and guitarist of the influential rock band Soda Stereo. He achieved international acclaim and is widely regarded by critics, specialized press, and fellow musicians as one of the most significant and influential artists in Latin rock.
Early Life
Stereo Cerati was born on 11 August 1959 in Barracas, Buenos Aires, Argentina. He grew up in a middle-class household with a paternal family of Lombard descent and a maternal family of Irish origin. His father worked as an accountant and frequently traveled abroad. From a young age, Cerati had a deep appreciation for the sun and nature. His first passion was art, and during his elementary school days, he would draw comics and create his own comic book characters.
Tributes and Remembrances
Gustavo Cerati’s impact on the music world and his lasting legacy were evident in the heartfelt tributes and remembrances offered by various international artists:
- During her performance at Rock in Rio Madrid on 5 June 2010, Colombian singer Shakira dedicated her song “Sale el Sol” to Cerati, which also became the title track of her ninth studio album.
- Irish rock band U2 paid tribute to Cerati during a concert in La Plata, Argentina, in March 2011, as part of their U2 360° Tour. Bono, the lead singer of U2, honored Cerati during the intro to their song “Moment of Surrender,” expressing their love and respect for him. The gesture was met with a standing ovation from the 60,000 fans in attendance at the Único Stadium.
- Swedish rockers Roxette performed the intro of Soda Stereo’s “De Música Ligera” before their own song “Joyride” during one of their Travelling the World Tour shows in May 2012. The crowd joined in, singing the first verse of the beloved song.
These tributes serve as a testament to the profound impact Gustavo Cerati had on the music community, both in Latin America and across the globe, and highlight the enduring legacy of his artistic contributions.
On 11 August 2015 a Google Doodle was created to celebrate Gustavo Cerati’s 56th Birthday.
