King Changó was a Latin ska band that emerged from the vibrant New York City music scene in the mid-1990s, founded by Venezuelan musician José Andrés Blanco, also known as "Blanquito Man." The band quickly established itself with its self-titled debut album in 1996, which was characterized by a potent mix of ska, reggae, and Latin rhythms, fortified by politically and socially conscious lyrics. They became a key figure in the Latin alternative movement, resonating with audiences hungry for genre-blending music and messages of unity and resistance.

Although they only released two full-length albums during their active years — their eponymous debut "King Changó" and the follow-up "The Return of El Santo" in 2000 — the band's impact on the fusion of Latin music with ska and reggae was profound. After a period of inactivity, the band members pursued various musical paths, but the legacy of King Changó endured. Notably, "Blanquito Man" continued to be an influential figure in the music world until his untimely passing in 2017. Their music, including tracks like "Ella Tiene Feeling" and "Latin Ska 27," continues to be celebrated by fans and stands as a testament to the energetic fusion of cultural sounds that defined their career.

Genres

Venezuelan Rock

Related Artists

Manu Chao

Los Fabulosos Cadillacs

Café Tacvba

Bersuit Vergarabat

Ska-P

Ozomatli

Gogol Bordello

Desorden Público

Marc Anthony

The Clash

Santana

No Doubt

Latest Release

Ella Tiene Feeling

King Chango

Single - Released August 16, 2023