Cortijo y Su Combo is a groundbreaking Puerto Rican music ensemble that made significant contributions to the popularization of Caribbean rhythms, especially in the genres of plena and bomba. Formed in the 1950s by bandleader Rafael Cortijo, the group became renowned for their vibrant performances and for breaking racial and societal barriers in the Latin music industry at the time. The combo featured legendary singer Ismael Rivera, known as "El Sonero Mayor," whose distinctive voice and improvised soneos (vocal improvisations) became emblematic of the band's sound.

The collaboration between Cortijo y Su Combo and Ismael Rivera bore fruit to many iconic recordings that remain classics in the realm of Afro-Caribbean music. Albums like "La Epoca de Oro De Cortijo Y Su Combo Con Ismael Rivera" (Volumes 1 and 2) and "Explosión Tropical - Ritmos Afro Cubanos de Cortijo y su Combo e Ismael Rivera," showcase the ensemble's ability to blend traditional Puerto Rican rhythms with broader Afro-Cuban influences to create a sound that was both authentic and innovative. Songs such as "Bailala Bien" and "Mi Caballito" are time-honored staples that continue to incite dance and joy among generations of music lovers. Their music was not just a celebration of cultural identity but also a powerful statement against the social tensions of their time, offering a transcendent message of unity and joy that has left an indelible mark on Caribbean music history.

Genres

Latin Jazz

Puerto Rican Folk

Salsa

Related Artists

Willie Colón

Tito Puente

El Gran Combo De Puerto Rico

Ismael Rivera

Cheo Feliciano

Eddie Palmieri

Bobby Valentin

Mon Rivera

Celia Cruz

Maelo Ruiz

Rubén Blades

Héctor Lavoe

Latest Release

Explosión Tropical - Ritmos Afro Cubanos de Cortijo y su Combo e Ismael Rivera

Cortijo Y Su Combo•

Ismael Rivera

Album - 12 Tracks - Released June 2, 2023