Internationally renowned vocalist, percussionist,
bandleader, composer, and record producer, Tito
Rodriguez was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico in
1923. He moved to New York in 1935 to be with
his brother Johnny, and joined the traditional
Latin vocal group, Cuarteto Caney. During the
early 1940's, Tito worked briefly with Xavier
Cugat and Noro Morales. He later joined a group
called the Mambo Devils, which eventually changed
its name to Tito Rodriguez and his Orchestra.
Throughout the 1960's, the band enjoyed great
popularity among Latin audiences. During these
years, the orchestra realized its greatest success
covering pop hits like "Cuando, Cuando" and
its most popular song, "Inolvidable"
(Unforgettable). In 1966, he decided to disband
the group, and begin a solo career.
In 1971, Tito moved to Florida where he produced
and starred in a Spanish-language television variety
show. He began his own record label before his
death, and recorded four albums for it. Tito's
last appearance, a month before he died, found
him sharing the stage with Machito at Madison
Square Garden
Throughout his career, Tito was often cast as
a rival to Tito
Puente. Both men were exceptional talents
and fierce competitors, who held each other in
grudgingly high regard. Though they did not speak
for over twenty years, Puente was the first to
arrive at the funeral home when Rodriguez's memorial
service was held.
Unfortunately, I didn't have the opportunity
to socialize extensively with Tito Rodriguez,
but I was fascinated with his talent and with
his orchestra, which I had the pleasure of hearing
many times at the Palladium Ballroom. It was an
honor for me when I finally met him during the
recording of his last album, at which time I was
given the opportunity to take some unique photographs
of the occasion.
Please CLICK
HERE to see a gallery of photos.
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