Fernando Borrego Linares, known professionally as Polo Montañez, was a celebrated Cuban singer and songwriter born on June 5, 1955, in the Sierra del Rosario mountain range, Candelaria, Cuba. Raised in a humble, rural environment, Montañez developed a deep connection to the sounds of Cuban son music, despite lacking formal musical training. His early life was marked by various jobs, including driving a tractor and making charcoal, while music remained a constant passion. He began playing the tumbadora and guitar at age seven, often performing at local gatherings with his father.

Montañez's career took a significant turn in 1999 when he signed with the French record label Lusafrica. His debut album, "Guajiro Natural," released in 2000, featured the hit single "Un Montón De Estrellas," which propelled him to international fame. The album's success, particularly in Colombia where it achieved Gold and Platinum status, established Montañez as a beloved figure in Latin American music. Known as "El Guajiro Natural," he captivated audiences with his evocative songs about rural life and love.

His music career, though brief, was prolific, with over 70 self-written songs by the age of 44. Montañez's compositions were characterized by their poetic imagery and heartfelt melodies, reflecting his life experiences in the Cuban countryside. He toured extensively, performing in countries such as Colombia, France, and Mexico, and shared stages with renowned artists like Rubén Blades and Cesária Évora.

Tragically, Montañez's life was cut short on November 26, 2002, following a car accident. Despite his untimely death, his legacy endures, and he remains a revered figure in Cuban music, celebrated for his contributions to the genre and his unique, natural talent.