Palito Ortega was interviewed by Mario Pergolini last Monday in his late night show ODP: Otro Día Perdido. The singer, composer, actor and businessman, born in Tucumán in 1945, is the typical example of a self-made man. He was born to a very poor family. In spite of that, he knew from a very early age that he wanted to become a popular and successful singer. He visualised his future and managed to achieve it, making his dream a reality. He became an icon of the “New Wave” musical style during the 1960s and 1970s. In 1981, he brought Frank Sinatra to Argentina, but lost US$1 million due to the sudden devaluation of our “peso.” He moved to the US with his family and started all over again, “with a little help from Frank’s friends,” rising from his ashes. Not only that. From show business, Ortega then shifted to politics and was elected governor of his province in 1991. And now, believe it or not, in his mid-80s, Palito is back on tour and will perform for live audiences all over. Let me also mention their six talented children: Martín, Julieta, Sebastián, Emanuel, Luis and Rosario, an awesome family built by Palito and Evangelina Salazar. Palito Ortega is the clear example of how passion, effort and hard work can mould one’s future, regardless of any obstacles or difficult circumstances. A true role model, an example to follow. Thanks, Palito! (And thanks, Mario Pergolini, for your unmissable TV interviews!)
Buenos Aires Times, August 29, 2026