Carlos Nieto, 63, Argentine singer

BUENOS AIRES - Singer Carlos Nieto, who emerged in the 1960s heyday of Argentine folk music and recorded more than 600 songs in a career spanning decades, died Thursday, his family said. He was 63.

Relatives said he died in Buenos Aires after battling cancer.

Born in the the Andean mountain province of Salta, Mr. Nieto was a composer who wrote his own material and songs later interpreted by Mercedes Sosa and other celebrated artists.

Unlike many contemporaries, who donned woolly Indian ponchos onstage, Mr. Nieto was known for performing in suit jackets and even the occasional tie. His booming voice, zamba rhythms and folk drum lashed at his side won over generations of fans.

Mr. Nieto won a number of awards in his native country, while songs like "Captive Moon" and "On the Pampa of the Guanacos" made him an ambassador for Argentine folk music during tours.