by Drago BonacichDominican self-started and hardworking singer/guitarist Luis Vargas (born Luis Rafael Valdez Vargas) became involved in popular music after meeting a local musician who taught him how to play guitar. After deciding to pursue a solo career, Luis Vargas self-produced his first single, promoted and sold by himself. Supported by local artists Pedro Pimentel, Artemio Sánchez, Antonio Carrasco, and Anthony Santos, his music began being played by local radio stations. After issuing his music through an independent label, Sony International signed him up, releasing Volvio el Dolor in 1997.