Tito Puente, born Ernesto Antonio Puente on April 20, 1923, in New York City, is a legendary Latin salsa composer known for his innovative musical sound that earned him the title of "El Rey de Los Timbales" or "The King of the Timbales." Growing up in Spanish Harlem, Puente's love for music was apparent from a young age. His mother enrolled him in piano lessons, which sparked his passion and talent for music.
As a teenager, Puente attended the Julliard School of Music under the GI Bill, where he honed his skills in percussion and composition. It was during this time that Puente discovered his love for Latin music and began to experiment with combining different rhythms and melodies to create his own unique sound.
After graduating from Julliard, Puente started his popular orchestra in the 1950s, quickly gaining a reputation for his captivating live performances and infectious dance music. His music was a blend of traditional Latin rhythms, jazz, and big band sounds that appealed to a wide audience.
Throughout his career, Puente released over 100 albums and wrote close to 200 original compositions, cementing his legacy as one of the most prolific and influential Latin composers of his time. His music was featured in numerous films and TV shows, including the movie "The Mambo Kings" in 1992, which starred Antonio Banderas.
Throughout his career, Puente won five Grammy Awards for his groundbreaking musical contributions and distinctive sound. His influence on the Latin music scene was immeasurable, inspiring countless musicians and composers to push boundaries and explore new musical territories.
Puente's legacy lives on through his children, Tito Jr., Audrey, and Richard, who continue to honor their father's musical heritage through their own performances and recordings. Puente's impact on Latin music will forever be remembered, and his music will continue to inspire generations to come.
Throughout his life, Puente was married to Margaret Asencio from 1963 to 2000. The couple had three children together, who followed in their father's musical footsteps. Despite his fame and success, Puente remained humble and dedicated to his craft, always striving to push the boundaries of Latin music.
Even after his passing on May 31, 2000, Puente's music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world. His contributions to the Latin music scene are unparalleled, and his legacy will forever be etched in the annals of music history.