WHO IS MANITAS DE PLATA? HOW DID HE GET THAT NAME?
Ricardo Baliardo. Manitas de Plata literally means “little hands of silver,” The legend I had originally heard was that the name Manitas de Oro (gold), was the name reserved for the guitar great Andres Segovia. But in the book of Manitas’ memoires, “Musique aux Doigts,” I read that he was given the name by a would-be promoter at the age of 12 when he was booked to play at a party, in an effort to make him sound more exotic and famous. The name stayed with him throughout his life. He is cousin to Jose and also related to the Baliardos of the Gipsy Kings. Many CDs of his music are available (see recommended). He turned 80 in August 2001 and still can dazzle fans with his talent. His granddaughter, Linda, is Tonino’s wife.
