A
controversial though highly praised guitarist and composer, was born in
Antigua, Guatemala.
Early
in his life Ricardo characterized himself as an inquisitive child. From
his early beginnings, Ricardo started to question long established doctrines.
The nature of his questions often got him into trouble. For example, by
the age of 8, Arjona wanted to find out if Jesus Christ had ever had a
girlfriend. Having been brought up in a traditional Catholic system where
questions of such a nature were considered blasphemy, Ricardo found himself
rebelling against a system of long established beliefs. The resulting punishment
for asking such a question convinced Arjona that one cannot question religious
matters freely in today's society without stepping on somebody's toes.
Except for his rebellious nature , Arjona was a normal child. However he
grew increasingly rebellious during his adolescent years. It is during
this period that he is surrounded by friends who like himself questioned
the rules and regulations of society as a whole. As Arjona approached adulthood,
he started to realize that his rebellious nature would lead to a lonely
path. Ricardo found that his long life friends were settling down to conform
with society and its rules. He understood that if he was going to continue
to rebel against society and it's long established beliefs he would have
to do it alone. Nonetheless, Arjona decided to follow this lonely path
and attended college. After being graduated from college , he taught in
rural schools in his native country, Guatemala. Later in life, Arjona became
a basketball player. He played for his country , during the next few years.
He then decided to start his career as a guitarist and composer. He established
a name for himself in Guatemala. In search of new frontiers, Ricardo moved
to Mexico City where he attempted to contact various record companies.
After being turned down by various major record labels, Ricardo finally
found a company which was willing to produce his music. His music, although
controversial, started to spread throughout Central and South American
countries. Sparking either controversy and criticism or praise and admiration,
Ricardo's music started to ascend the ranks of the more popular songs.
His unique compositions started to touch the hearts and lives of different
people. Through his compositions, the ideals of all of those who choose
to follow their own paths in life are finally voiced. His music assures
us all that there is no greater joy in life than to follow one's own heart
wherever it may take you.
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