Edmundo Dante Arias Valencia, born on November 5, 1925, in Tuluá, Colombia, was a prominent Colombian musician, songwriter, and bandleader. He passed away on January 28, 1993, in Medellín, Colombia. Arias was a pivotal figure in Colombian tropical music, composing over 300 songs and recording with various Colombian record labels such as Discos Fuentes, Zeida, Ondina, and Sonolux. He is celebrated as one of the "big three" composers of Colombian tropical music during the 1950s and 60s, alongside Lucho Bermúdez and Pacho Galán.

Arias's musical journey began in his childhood, learning to play various instruments and forming the Arias Trio with his father and younger brother Ricaurte. After his father's death in 1948, he assumed leadership of some of the family bands. In 1951, Arias moved to Medellín, where he continued his recording career. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Arias did not maintain a permanent orchestra; instead, he assembled musicians as needed for recordings, leading groups such as Edmundo Arias y Su Orquesta and Sonora Antillana.

Arias was known for his shyness and was nicknamed "cabeza-de-nido" (bird's-nest-hair), which inspired the name of his band Sonora Cabecenido. His compositions spanned various styles, including cumbias, porros, merecumbés, boleros, and pasillos. Notable works include "Ligia," "Diciembre Azul," "Cumbia Candelosa," and "Me Da Lo Mismo." His music was recorded by renowned artists like Los Corraleros de Majagual and Celia Cruz.

Edmundo Arias's legacy endures through his contributions to Colombian music, characterized by his unique blend of Atlantic coast rhythms and personal stylistic touches. His work continues to influence and be celebrated in Colombia and beyond.