Tito Puente, affectionately known as "El Rey" (The King), was a legendary percussionist, bandleader, composer, and arranger who towered over the genre of Latin jazz and salsa music. Born on April 20, 1923, in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Puente was a musical prodigy who was heavily influenced by the sounds and rhythms that permeated his childhood in Spanish Harlem. He served in the Navy during World War II and later studied at the Juilliard School of Music where he honed his skills in orchestration.

Tito Puente's career spanned more than five decades, during which time he recorded over 100 albums and penned numerous hits, including the iconic song "Oye Como Va," which was famously covered by Carlos Santana. A virtuoso on timbales, Puente brought the instrument to the forefront of his ensembles, fusing jazz harmonics with Afro-Cuban rhythms and thus playing a pivotal role in the development of Latin jazz. He earned five Grammy Awards throughout his illustrious career and was known for his electrifying live performances, as captured in various "Live Treasures" recordings. His contributions to music transcended genres and generations, cementing his legacy as a key figure in the popularization of Latin dance music, especially mambo and salsa. Puente passed away on May 31, 2000, but his infectious grooves and vibrant showmanship continue to influence musicians and delight audiences around the world.

Genres

Afro-cuban Percussion

Jazz Puertorriqueno

Latin Jazz

Mambo

Musica Tradicional Cubana

Salsa

Related Artists

Celia Cruz

Ray Barretto

Eddie Palmieri

Rubén Blades

Cal Tjader

Mongo Santamaria

Poncho Sanchez

Marc Anthony

Santana

Willie Colón

El Gran Combo De Puerto Rico

Buena Vista Social Club

Latest Release

Early Recordings - Viva el Mambo! (Audiophile Edition)

Tito Puente

Album - 14 Tracks - Released January 14, 2024