Paquito D'Rivera, born on June 4, 1948, in Havana, Cuba, is a celebrated saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer who has made significant contributions to both Latin jazz and classical music. A child prodigy, he began performing at the age of ten and quickly gained recognition for his incredible musical talent. D'Rivera's deep roots in Cuban music and jazz have allowed him to blend Afro-Cuban rhythms with a broad range of global influences, culminating in a career that transcends cultural boundaries and genre limitations.

After seeking political asylum in the United States in 1980, D'Rivera's international career flourished, leading to numerous Grammy Awards and a prolific discography that showcases his versatility and virtuosity. Among his most recent works are "Paquito D'Rivera: Bandoneon," which explores the rich sounds of the tango's signature instrument, and "Benny Goodman Revisited," a tribute to the jazz clarinet legend. D'Rivera's mastery shines in "Aires Tropicales" and "Jazz Meets the Classics," where he deftly fuses jazz improvisation with classical structures. Collaborations like "Song for Maura," which earned him a Latin Grammy, highlight his ability to create deeply expressive and harmonically rich music. Throughout his career, Paquito D'Rivera has remained a vital force in contemporary music, continuously evolving and engaging audiences worldwide with his sophisticated sound and exuberant performances.

Genres

Jazz Cubano

Latin Jazz

Related Artists

Chick Corea

Eddie Palmieri

Arturo Sandoval

Gonzalo Rubalcaba

Gato Barbieri

Buena Vista Social Club

Herbie Hancock

Keith Jarrett

Dave Brubeck

Pat Metheny

Dizzy Gillespie

Tito Puente

Latest Release

Zamba Negra

Paquito D'Rivera

Album - 12 Tracks - Released May 24, 2024