Who Is Rubén Blades? Age, Biography and Wiki
Rubén Blades, born on July 16, 1948, in Panama City, Panama, is a distinguished musician, actor, and political activist renowned for his contributions to Latin music, particularly salsa. Blades is celebrated for his innovative approach to salsa, incorporating socially conscious lyrics and diverse musical styles. In 2025, he is 76 years old, and his influential career spans several decades, making him a key figure in the evolution of Latin music.
| Occupation | Jazz Singer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 16, 1948 |
| Age | 76 Years |
| Birth Place | Panama City, Panama |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | Panama |
Popularity
Rubén Blades's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
As of 2025, Rubén Blades stands at an estimated height of 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) and weighs around 160 pounds (73 kg). His body measurements reflect a fit and healthy lifestyle, indicative of his dedication to music and performance even at an advanced age.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Rubén Blades was previously married to actress and singer Luba Mason, but in recent years, he has kept his personal life largely private. In 2025, he continues to focus on his career and personal interests, without publicly disclosing his current relationship status. Blades has often expressed the significance of family in his life, and he remains a supportive figure for his loved ones.
He is the son of Cuban musician and actress Anoland Díaz (her real surname is Bellido de Luna), and Colombian Rubén Darío Blades Sr., an athlete, a percussionist and a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics in Washington, D.C. His younger brother, Roberto Blades, is also a musician.
His mother's great-uncle, Juan Bellido de Luna, was active in the Cuban revolutionary movement against Spain and was a writer and publisher in New York City. Blades's paternal grandfather, was thought to be Rubén Blades, an English-speaking native of St. Lucia who came to Panama as an accountant.
However, in 2025 it was revealed on Finding Your Roots that Blades is actually the grandson of poet Ricardo Miró. Blades says that the man he thought was his grandfather had come to Panama to work on the Panama Canal, as he states in the song "West Indian Man" on the album Amor y Control ("That's where the Blades comes from") (1992).
He explains the source and the pronunciation of his family surname, which is of English origin, in his web show Show De Ruben Blades (SDRB). Additionally, on Finding Your Roots it was revealed that Amelia Denis de Icaza, the first Panamanian woman to publish her poems, was the aunt of Ricardo Miró, making her Blades's great-aunt.
Net Worth and Salary
Rubén Blades has built a notable fortune through his illustrious career in music and film. By 2025, his estimated net worth is around $15 million. This impressive figure reflects his success as an artist, his appearances in movies and television, and various business ventures. His earnings stem not only from album sales and concerts but also from royalties associated with his extensive discography.
Career, Business and Investments
Rubén Blades’ career began in the 1970s, and he rapidly rose to prominence as a salsa musician. His albums, such as Siembra and Canciones del Solar de Sara, have become classics in the Latin music genre. Beyond music, Blades is also an accomplished actor, featuring in films and television shows that showcase his multifaceted talent.
In 2025, he continues to invest in new music projects and maintain a presence in the entertainment industry, often collaborating with emerging artists. Blades is known for his commitment to social issues, and he actively participates in charitable events and initiatives, using his platform to advocate for change.
In 1982 Blades got his first acting role, in The Last Fight, portraying a singer-turned-boxer vying for a championship against a fighter who was played by real-life world-champion boxer Salvador Sánchez.
In 1984, he released Buscando América, and in 1985, Blades gained widespread recognition as co-writer and star of the independent film Crossover Dreams as a New York salsa singer willing to do anything to break into the mainstream. Blades also began his career in films scoring music for soundtracks.
Also in 1985, he earned a master's degree in international law from Harvard Law School. He was the subject of Robert Mugge's documentary The Return of Rubén Blades, which debuted at that year's Denver Film Festival. He also recorded a segment for the 60 Minutes television program, interviewed by Morley Safer.
Social Network
Rubén Blades is highly active on social media, where he connects with fans and shares insights about his life and work. His official Twitter handle (@RubnBlades) boasts a substantial following, and he frequently updates his Instagram account (@rubénblades) with posts about his music, personal reflections, and messages of solidarity.
His acting career began in 1983, and has continued, sometimes with several-year breaks to focus on other projects.
He has prominent roles in films such as Crossover Dreams (1985), The Milagro Beanfield War (1988), The Super (1991), Predator 2 (1990), Color of Night (1994), Safe House (2012), The Counselor (2013) and Hands of Stone (2016), along with three Emmy Award nominations for his performances in The Josephine Baker Story (1991), Crazy from the Heart (1992
) and The Maldonado Miracle (2003).
He portrayed Daniel Salazar, a main character on the TV series Fear the Walking Dead (2015–2017; 2019–2023).
Education
Blades' education has played a vital role in shaping his career. He attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied law. This academic background not only influenced his songwriting but also his advocacy for social justice. His education provides him with a unique perspective, allowing him to address complex themes in his music effectively.
Blades earned multiple degrees in political science and law at the Universidad Nacional de Panamá and performed legal work at the Bank of Panama as a law student.
