Arturo "Chico" O'Farrill stands as one of the pivotal figures who infused the world of jazz with Afro-Cuban rhythms, giving birth to a vibrant genre known today as Latin jazz. Born on October 28, 1921, in Havana, Cuba, O'Farrill's musical foray was richly textured by the crosswinds of his bicultural Irish-Cuban heritage and the rhythmic beats of his homeland. After studying music formally in Havana, he moved to the United States in the late 1940s, drawn by the lure of the burgeoning New York jazz scene.

Chico O'Farrill's profound influence on the jazz world arose from his pioneering work as a composer and arranger, bridging the gap between bebop and Afro-Cuban sounds. His compositions stirred the pot of musical innovation, seen prominently in works such as the "Afro-Cuban Jazz Suite," which featured legendary saxophonist Charlie Parker. In the landscape of Latin jazz, O'Farrill's name became synonymous with intricate arrangements that celebrated cultural diversity and rhythmic passion. Throughout his storied career that spanned several decades, Chico O'Farrill's sonic legacy was sustained by numerous album releases, including classics like "The Sizzling Brass of Chico O'Farrill" and a remastered collection showcasing the enduring resonance of his work, such as "All that Jazz, Vol. 117: Afro-Cuban Rhythm - Chico O'Farrill (2019 Remaster)." His influence continued to permeate through generations, not only through his own music but through his son, the Grammy Award-winning composer, pianist and bandleader, Arturo O'Farrill. Chico O'Farrill's passion and contributions to the genre earned him an indelible place in the pantheon of jazz legends, where his music remains a testament to the power of cultural synthesis.

Genres

Jazz Cubano

Latin Jazz

Mambo

Latest Release

The Sizzling Brass of Chico O'Farrill

Chico O'Farrill

Album - 13 Tracks - Released August 3, 2023