Mecano

The ’80s and early ’90s act Mecano, which is known for New Wave and alternative rock, is the most popular and best-selling Spanish band of all time. ∙ The 1987 synth-pop hit “Ay Que Pesado” peaked at No. 17 on Billboard’s Hot Latin 50 chart. ∙ Penélope Cruz made her acting debut in the video for 1989’s alternative rock single “La Fuerza del Destino.” ∙ In 1990, the strings-driven pop ballad “Une femme avec une femme (Mujer Contra Mujer)” spent seven weeks at No. 1 in France and was covered by pop star Laura Branigan. ∙ Their hit “Hijo de la Luna” has been covered by musical theater star Sarah Brightman, Dutch pop star Loona, and Mexican icon Gloria Trevi. ∙ The band’s music was used to create a successful 2005 jukebox musical, Hoy No Me Puedo Levantar, which was produced in Spain and Mexico.