Rosendo Rosell
Rosendo Rosell, born Rosendo Hernández Padrón on June 25, 1918, in Placetas, Las Villas, Cuba, was a multifaceted Cuban artist known for his work as an actor, entertainer, songwriter, producer, and journalist. He was the son of Tomás Hernández Pérez de la Maza and Aurora López and had two sisters, Elsa and Mery. Rosell was married to Marta Hernández and later to Martha Young Joffre on June 25, 1946, in Havana, with whom he had a daughter named Martica.
Rosell began his professional career at the age of 20, singing tangos with pianist Gustavo López Rodríguez. He eventually formed his own orchestra, collaborating with renowned musical directors such as Adolfo Guzmán, Humberto Suárez, and Rafael Lay. His orchestra included notable musicians like singer Julio Valdés and arranger Richard Egües.
In addition to his musical career, Rosell was a prolific composer, having written over a hundred songs recorded by prominent artists worldwide. He was also an accomplished actor, appearing in films such as "Sucedió en México" (1958), "Siete muertes a plazo fijo" (1950), and "Ritmos del Caribe" (1950). Rosell was actively involved in radio, television, and theater, working alongside famous figures like Charlie Quintana and Candita Pous.
Rosell was a pioneer in Cuban television, participating in the first sketch produced by TV Canal 4 in 1950. He hosted the popular educational children's television program "La Escuelita" on CMBF-Canal 4, which featured future stars like the prima ballerina of the National Ballet of Cuba, García Martica.
Rosendo Rosell passed away on October 24, 2010, in Hialeah, Florida, leaving behind a legacy as a versatile and influential figure in Cuban culture.