Edito de Al surJuan's journey began in his native country, Colombia. At sixteen years old, Juan already was breaking from the mainstream. Instead of following a route toward salsa, vallenato and merengue, Juan found himself drawn to the electric guitar and the emerging underground rock scene. His obsession resulted in several albums, a number one radio hit, countless live shows, and an abundance of powerful songs. In a country where public interest in rock is secondary to more traditional forms, Juan brought his fiery guitar riffs to the public and the public loved it. While in university, Juan formed the alternative rock band, Emma Hoo, as the lead singer and guitarist. Three months later, the band was offered a record deal, which resulted in the release of their first album. Emma Hoo quickly gained a cult following, playing many major festivals and sold out concerts. Juan?s next project, La Universal, was an original, genre-busting rock band with a unique fusion of rock, electronica, rap, and funk. As the lead guitarist, songwriter, and the band?s producer, Juan led the group to success. Their hit single ?Ola de Calor?, hit number one on the local charts and stayed there for three consecutive weeks. La Universal made frequent radio and television appearances, including a special nationally televised unplugged concert. It wasn?t until Juan moved to Toronto, Canada when he finally started working on a project that he had dreamt about for many years ? making instrumental guitar music. Inspired by the guitar legends that he grew up listening to, in 2004 he began recording his first solo album, Renewal, which reflects the experience of finding his true voice, one that connects his Latin roots with his love for the electric guitar and rock and roll. Guitar Player Magazine chose Juan as one of the Top Ten Guitar Heroes from over 3,000 submissions worldwide. Juan played at The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, in front of guitar legends such as Joe Satriani and Steve Lukather. As well, The Durham Region Music Society awarded Juan with the "Best Instrumental Recording of the Year" award.