"I am convinced that music, like philanthropy, bridges hope."

• Born Enrique Martín Morales on Dec. 24, 1971, in San Juan, Puerto Rico

• A former member of the boy band Menudo, Ricky Martin crossed over in a big way in the United States with his fifth solo album, Ricky Martin. The album topped the Billboard 200 and spawned the hits "Livin' La Vida Loca" (No. 1), "She's All I Ever Had" (No. 2) and "Shake Your Bon-Bon" (No. 22).

• Martin earned his first career GRAMMY for 1998 for Best Latin Pop Performance for "Vuelve." He made his GRAMMY stage debut with "La Copa De Vida" at the 41st GRAMMY Awards in 1999.

• Did you know? The Latin star played the role of Miguel Morez in the popular daytime soap opera "General Hospital" from 1994–1995. 

• In 2006 Martin was honored as The Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year for his artistic achievements in the Latin music industry and dedication to philanthropy. A significant portion of the proceeds from the event benefits the charitable work of the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, which provides assistance through scholarships, fellowships, grants, and educational programs year-round to music students.

• Martin, who is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, founded the Ricky Martin Foundation, which is dedicated to denouncing human trafficking and defending children and youth rights.