Robi 'Draco' Rosa Diagnosed With Cancer

By Michael Lopez

The Latin pop world got rocked with some terrible news today as word got out that Grammy Award-winning performer Robi "Draco" Rosa has been diagnosed with cancer. A musical presence for over 25 years, Rosawas a member of the “classic” Menudo lineup and co-wrote some of Ricky Martin’s biggest hits.

Draco’s agent Angelo Medina broke the news to the world,

"En este momento, se encuentra en un tratamiento especializado en la clínica Burzynski en Houston, Texas. Draco está combatiente y con mucho carácter enfrentando este reto que le ha traído la vida,” Medina said.

Just 41-years-old, Rosa was one of Menudo’s earliest heartthrobs. He sang on their major English crossover hits like “Hold Me” and “Like A Cannonball.” In 1988, his popularity grew even more, landing him a starring role in the now classic movie, Salsa: The Motion Picture.

But all of that early success doesn’t even begin to define Draco’s talents. He co-wrote Ricky Martin’s “Livin’ La Vida Loca,” released four highly-received solo concept albums, and became a trailblazer for the alternative Latin music movement.

Now Draco is fighting for his life, diagnosed with a cancerous tumor near his liver. He has promised his fans that he will fight the disease and offered plenty of gratitude for the enormous show of support he’s received so far.

“Gracias. Ustedes siempre estarán en mis oraciones,” Rosa recently stated.

We know we are not alone in wishing Draco a speedy and safe recovery.

Are you a fan of Draco Rosa? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Cancer, Draco, Health, Música, Menudo, Ricky Martin, Robi Rosa