José Luis Pardo, also known as DJ Afro, is a Grammy Award-winning Venezuelan-American guitarist and DJ. Born on March 17, 1981 in Caracas, Venezuela, he is best known for founding the band Los Amigos Invisibles and for being the founder of Gozadera Records. His unique blend of guitar skills and DJing abilities has made him a prominent figure in the music industry.
Pardo grew up in Caracas, Venezuela, where he developed a passion for music at a young age. He learned to play the guitar and honed his skills by playing in local bands. In 1991, he co-founded the band Los Amigos Invisibles, which would go on to achieve international success.
Los Amigos Invisibles gained popularity in the Latin music scene with their unique fusion of funk, disco, and acid jazz. Pardo's guitar skills added a distinct flavor to the band's sound, and he quickly became known for his dynamic performances on stage. In 1995, Pardo ventured into DJing, further expanding his musical repertoire.
In addition to his work with Los Amigos Invisibles, Pardo has collaborated with various artists and musicians over the years. In 2010, he helped form the band Los Crema Paraiso and has also played as part of Masters at Work. His versatile talent as both a guitarist and DJ has earned him recognition in the music industry.
In 2001, Pardo made the bold decision to move to New York City to further pursue his music career. The bustling metropolis provided him with new opportunities to showcase his talents and connect with other artists. Despite being away from his native Venezuela, Pardo continues to stay true to his roots and culture through his music.
Throughout his career, Pardo has remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He has built a strong fan base both in Venezuela and internationally, earning the respect of fellow musicians and music enthusiasts. His contributions to the music industry have solidified his place as a leading figure in the Latin music scene.
As a Venezuelan-American musician, Pardo's impact extends beyond his music. He serves as a role model for aspiring artists, showing that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. His unique blend of guitar playing and DJing has inspired a new generation of musicians to push boundaries and explore new musical horizons.