Candido

Candido Camero, known simply as Candido, was a pioneering Cuban percussionist and one of the most influential conga players in the history of Latin jazz. Born in Havana in 1921, Candido was a master of multiple percussion instruments, including congas, bongos, and the bongo drum, and he was renowned for introducing the technique of playing multiple congas at once—an innovation that revolutionized Afro-Cuban and Latin jazz drumming. After moving to the United States in the late 1940s, he collaborated with jazz greats like Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, and Tito Puente, blending Afro-Cuban rhythms with American jazz in groundbreaking ways.

Candido’s solo work spanned decades and included a wide range of styles, from traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms to funky, dance-floor-friendly Latin disco. His 1979 hit “Jingo” became a club classic, and his recordings for labels like Blue Note, Salsoul, and various Latin imprints showcased both his virtuosity and his adventurous spirit. Throughout his remarkable career, Candido was celebrated for his technical skill, vibrant personality, and trailblazing contributions to the fusion of Latin music and jazz. He continued performing well into his 90s, earning numerous honors including a NEA Jazz Masters Fellowship in 2008—cementing his legacy as a true icon of Latin jazz.

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