Pop Music Review : Jose Jose Gets a Hero’s Welcome

Jose Jose’s Universal Amphitheatre concert on Sunday was an emotional affair. Not because of the music--a selection of mild, old-fashioned romantic ballads--but because of the singer’s very presence. A little more than a year ago he was in a clinic for treatment of alcoholism, and rumors of his death even spread through the Latin pop world.

The near-capacity crowd gave the Mexican star a hero’s welcome at Sunday’s show, his first L.A. appearance in more than two years. The singer, 46, looked healthy and relaxed during the whole show.

Backed by a six-piece band, Jose Jose made up for a dreadful version of “New York, New York” by concentrating on the old hits from his 31-year career. He also presented some songs from his latest album, “Grandeza mexicana” (Mexican Greatness), including a duet with his 18-year-old son Jose Sosa, who has just launched his own singing career.

Although his success is due more to his repertoire, his gentle personality and his passionate spirit than to his average, high-pitched voice, Jose Jose’s magic is intact. He is back as a major representative of the old guard of Latin romantic singers.