Ray Barretto (live in Africa) #raybarretto

A Latin and jazz legend, master conguero, composer, producer, and bandleader was born 96 years ago today. Nicknamed “Hard Hands,” he began as a jazz sideman in the early ’60s, playing with icons like Charlie Parker. The first U.S.-born percussionist to bring congas into jazz, he became a go-to for both jazz and Latin greats like Tito Puente. Ray Barretto released over 50 albums across five decades, split his focus between salsa and jazz, and served as musical director of the Fania All Stars. He also played with the Bee Gees, Rolling Stones, and Crosby, Stills & Nash! Thank you for the incredible music you gave to the world, Ray Barretto 🕊️ #raybarretto #fania #faniarecords