Irakere was a seminal Cuban band that formed in the early 1970s and played a pivotal role in the development of Latin jazz. The band was founded by pianist Chucho Valdés and included some of the most talented musicians in Cuba, later becoming a stepping stone for many of them to launch successful international careers. Irakere's music deftly combined elements of traditional Cuban music with jazz, rock, classical, and funk influences, creating a sound that was both innovative and rooted in Cuban heritage. Their incorporation of Afro-Cuban rhythms with electronic instruments was groundbreaking and reflected the ethos of the era, blending the new with the old in a way that had never been done before.

Throughout their illustrious career, Irakere garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, highlighted by a Grammy win in 1979 for their album "Irakere." The band's discography is a rich tapestry of vibrant musical mastery, with releases like "Seleccion De Exitos 1973-1979, Vol. 1" showcasing their early work, and "Lo Mejor de Cuba, Vol. 1 and 2" featuring some of their best tracks. Their live performances, such as those captured in "Irakere - Live at Ronnie Scott's Birmingham," were known for their energy and finesse, contributing to their reputation as one of the live music wonders of the time. Although the ensemble has undergone numerous changes over the decades, their legacy remains as a cornerstone of Cuban musical innovation and the development of Latin jazz globally.

Genres

Cuban Funk

Jazz Cubano

Latin Jazz

Related Artists

NG La Banda

Chucho Valdés

Paquito D'Rivera

Giovanni Hidalgo

Cachao

Patato

Arsenio Rodríguez

Arturo Sandoval

Los Muñequitos De Matanzas

Caribbean Jazz Project

Gonzalo Rubalcaba

Mongo Santamaria

Latest Release

Babalú Ayé (Remasterizado)

Chucho Valdés•

Irakere

Album - 7 Tracks - Released November 30, 2018