Julio César Álvarez Montelongo (born 11 April 1983), better known as Julión Álvarez (Spanish pronunciation:[xuˈljonˈalβaɾes]), is a Mexican singer who specializes in regional Mexican music.
Life and career
Julión Álvarez was born and raised in La Concordia, Chiapas, México.[1] In 2003, he joined the Mexican band, "Banda MS", until 2006. Following the leave of Banda MS, he decided to start a solo career as Julión Álvarez y su Norteño Banda.[1]
In 2011, he married Nathaly Fernández.
In 2014, Álvarez was selected by Miguel Ángel Fox, producer of the Mexican talent show, La Voz... Mexico to participate as coach in its fourth edition. He later went on to be the winning coach with his pupil, Guido Rochin.[2]
In May 2016, it was announced that Álvarez would embark on a 22-Foot Arena Tour in the United States, the first for a regional Mexican act.[4]
In September 2016, Álvarez's album, Mis Ídolos, Hoy Mis Amigos!!! was nominated for Best Banda Album at the 2016 Latin Grammy Awards.[5]
On August 10, 2017, the United States Department of the Treasury, froze Álvarez's assets in the United States and forbid American persons and companies from doing business with him for allegedly violating the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act. As a result, Álvarez's U.S. tour was cancelled.[6] Álvarez had denied the allegation brought by the U.S. Treasury Department and said he was willing to cooperate with authorities.[7]
In June 2022, after five years working in coordination with the authorities of both countries, it was announced that Álvarez's allegations linked to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act were finally removed and he may continue to perform and engage in businesses on the United States. [9]
The Latin American Music Awards are awarded annually by the television network Telemundo in the United States. Álvarez has received two awards from five nominations.[11]
The Lo Nuestro Awards are awarded annually by the television network Univision in the United States. Álvarez has received three awards from fifteen nominations.[13]
