Personal life
Where was Francisco Gabilondo Soler born?
in Orizaba, Veracruz, Mexico, on October 6, 1907.
What was his biggest contribution to music?
He created a large collection of original children’s songs filled with storytelling and imagination.
Was he officially recognized by the Mexican government?
Yes, he received honors during his lifetime and after his death for his cultural contributions
What other field fascinated him besides music?
Astronomy — he was an amateur astronomer and wrote about it.
Who was president of Mexico when Cri-Cri debuted?
Lázaro Cárdenas, who began his presidency in 1934.
What was his most famous nickname?
Cri-Cri, the Singing Cricket.
When did Cri-Cri first appear on the radio?
In 1934, on the XEW radio station in Mexico City.
Where are his remains now?
In the Rotunda of Illustrious Persons in Mexico City since 1990 .
Was Cri-Cri originally a storybook character?
No, Cri-Cri was created as a musical character specifically for radio.
What was the most popular form of entertainment in the 1930s?
Radio — it was the golden age of radio in Mexico.
What kind of education did he have as a child?
He had a basic formal education but was self-taught and very curious, especially about reading and science
How many songs did he compose approximately?
Over 200 children’s songs.
Has he received posthumous tributes?
Yes, through concerts, documentaries, exhibitions, and annual celebrations.
What instrument did Gabilondo Soler play?
The piano.
Was children's music common at the time?
Not at all. Cri-Cri was a pioneer in creating music specifically for children.
Did he have a family?
Yes, he was married and had several children, though he kept his private life very discreet.
What made his songs unique?
They featured original characters, moral lessons, humor, and high musical quality.
Is there a foundation dedicated to his work?
Yes, the Francisco Gabilondo Soler Foundation preserves and promotes his legacy.
Was it true he boxed as a young man?
Yes, he briefly pursued boxing as a hobby in his youth.
What was happening politically in Mexico during the 1930s?
Major social and land reforms were being implemented under Cárdenas' leadership.
When did he die and at what age?
He died on December 14, 1990, at the age of 83.
Was his work only popular in Mexico?
No, his songs became well-known throughout Latin America and Spain.
Has he appeared on stamps or commemorative items?
Yes, he has been featured on postage stamps as a national cultural figure.
Did he enjoy classic fairy tales?
Yes, but he preferred creating his own characters and original stories.
Why was XEW radio station important?
It was a major platform that launched many famous Mexican artists, including Cri-Cri.