Apr 14 2024 7 mins 1
Thanks for tuning in. The Drums and Rums podcast is coming back from a hiatus with a great guest who continues the legacy of the king of Latin percussion and its also his father, out guest is Tito Puente Jr.
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Who Was Tito Puente?
This week we celebrate the fascinating life of Tito Puente, the “King of Mambo.” Born as Ernest Anthony Puente Jr. on April 20, 1923, he left an indelible mark on the world of music. He passed away on June 1st 2000.
Here’s a glimpse into his remarkable journey and some of the things each day this week we'll dive into.
Early Years:
Tito Puente was born in New York City’s Spanish Harlem to Puerto Rican parents. His father worked at a razorblade factory, and Tito initially took piano lessons. However, an ankle injury led him to switch to percussion, drawing inspiration from jazz drummer Gene Krupa. Puente's talent blossomed with his drumming lessons, and in the '40s he joined the Machito Orchestra when their drummer was drafted for World War II. This was his big break, and Puente played with them until he was also drafted into the Navy. After the war, Puente went to the Julliard School of Music on the G.I. Bill to study music and orchestration, and in 1948 he formed his own band and began developing his distinctive performance style.
Career:
Tito Puente was known for his blending of Latin and jazz sounds, for placing percussion in the spotlight, and for celebrating the music with dancing and joy during his performances. His band became a regular sound at the Palladium Ballroom, where the Tito Puente Orchestra packed in the crowds and helped popularize mambo. Over the years he became known as "El Rey," the king of mambo music, and he collaborated with many other major performers, including Celia Cruz. Puente began recording with RCA Victor in the 1950s. He continued to record, collaborate, and perform for the next several decades. In the 1990s, he played himself in the movie, Mambo Kings, which helped drive a renewed awareness of his music. When he died at age 77, he was still regularly performing.
Legacy:
Tito Puente’s influence transcends borders. His compositions continue to resonate, and his virtuosity lives on. Whether you’re dancing to his beats or appreciating his melodies, Tito Puente's legacy has been recognized in many ways. He received five Grammy Awards during his lifetime, as well as a posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award; among other honors, he also received honorary degrees, presidential recognition, and the Key to New York City.
Tune in tomorrow for part 2 of celebrating the life and music of Tito Puente.
