Dionisio Jesús "Chucho" Valdés is an iconic figure in the world of Latin jazz, revered for his prodigious piano skills and innovative contributions to Afro-Cuban music. Born on October 9, 1941, in Quivicán, Cuba, Valdés is the son of the equally legendary Cuban bandleader Bebo Valdés. Carrying on his family's rich musical legacy, Chucho has not only sustained the storied tradition of Cuban music but has also been instrumental in its evolution.

Valdés first came into prominence as the founder and director of the groundbreaking Cuban jazz band Irakere in 1973. With Irakere, Chucho helped meld jazz with traditional Cuban rhythms, infusing new life into both genres and earning the band a GRAMMY Award in 1979. As a solo artist and collaborator, Chucho Valdés has amassed an impressive discography that showcases his virtuosity and creativity. His recent works, such as "I Missed You Too!" and "Jazz Batá 2," continue to earn critical acclaim, while projects like "Familia: Tribute to Bebo & Chico" and "Tribute to Irakere: Live in Marciac" underscore his dedication to his cultural heritage and ongoing influence in the world of jazz. With multiple GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY Awards under his belt, Chucho Valdés remains a towering figure in modern music, continuing to inspire and innovate well into the 21st century.

Genres

Jazz Cubano

Jazz Piano

Latin Jazz

Related Artists

Herbie Hancock

Eddie Palmieri

Chick Corea

Gonzalo Rubalcaba

Roberto Fonseca

Bebo Valdés

Paquito D'Rivera

Omar Sosa

Robert Glasper

Jon Batiste

Oscar Peterson

Keith Jarrett

Latest Release

Cuba And Beyond

Chucho Valdés•

Royal Quartet

Album - 8 Tracks - Released August 30, 2024