Role

:

Composer Conductor

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

April 20, 1923 in New York City, NY

Death

:

May 31, 2000 in New York City, NY

 

Tito Puente was a renowned American musician, composer, and bandleader who was born on April 20, 1923, in New York City. He was of Puerto Rican descent and grew up in a musical family. His father, Ernesto Puente, was a bandleader and played several instruments, including the saxophone, clarinet, and piano. Tito's mother, Ercilia, was a homemaker who loved to sing and dance. Tito Puente showed an interest in music at a young age and began playing the piano when he was just five years old. He later learned to play the drums, timbales, and vibraphone. He attended the Juilliard School of Music in New York City, where he studied composition, orchestration, and conducting. In the 1940s, Tito Puente began his career as a musician, playing with various bands in New York City. He played with the Machito Orchestra, the Noro Morales Orchestra, and the Xavier Cugat Orchestra. He also played with jazz legends such as Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker. In 1949, Tito Puente formed his own band, the Tito Puente Orchestra. The band played a mix of Latin jazz, mambo, and salsa music. The band quickly gained popularity and became one of the most successful Latin bands of the 1950s and 1960s. Tito Puente composed over 400 songs during his career, many of which became hits. Some of his most famous compositions include "Oye Como Va," "Ran Kan Kan," "Mambo Diablo," and "Pa' Los Rumberos." His music was known for its infectious rhythms, catchy melodies, and energetic performances. Tito Puente was also known for his collaborations with other musicians. He worked with jazz legends such as Count Basie, Buddy Rich, and Woody Herman. He also collaborated with Latin music stars such as Celia Cruz, Tito Rodriguez, and Eddie Palmieri. In addition to his music career, Tito Puente was also an actor. He appeared in several films, including "The Mambo Kings" and "Calle 54." He also made guest appearances on television shows such as "The Cosby Show" and "The Simpsons." Tito Puente received numerous awards and honors during his career. He won five Grammy Awards and was nominated for several more. He was also inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame, the Jazz Hall of Fame, and the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame. Tito Puente continued to perform and record music until his death on May 31, 2000, at the age of 77. He left behind a legacy as one of the most influential Latin musicians of all time. His music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world.

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