Ernest “Tito” Anthony Puente was an American musician known for his work as a famous Latin percussionist. He became widely recognized for his contributions to Latin jazz and mambo music, and he is often referred to as “The King of the Mambo” and “El Rey de los Timbales.”
Personal and Family Life
Tito Puente was born on April 20, 1923, in New York City to Puerto Rican parents. He was the eldest son in his family and was nicknamed “Tito” by his mother. He married Margaret Asencio in 1963, and together they had three children. Puente’s mother recognized his musical talent early and enrolled him in piano lessons, which set the foundation for his future career in music.
Career Highlights
Puente attended the Juilliard School of Music from 1945 to 1947 and became well-known for blending jazz with Latin beats. Over his 60-year career, he recorded more than 100 albums and won 10 Grammy Awards. He famously joked about earning royalties from Santana’s hit “Oye Como Va,” which he had originally composed. Apart from music, he made appearances in several films, usually portraying himself.
Death and Legacy
Tito Puente passed away on June 1, 2000, in New York City due to heart disease. His contributions to music have had a lasting impact, and he is celebrated as one of the pioneers of Latin jazz and mambo. Puente’s vibrant personality and exceptional talent have left a mark on the music industry, inspiring future generations of musicians.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Radio Days | 1987-01-30 | Latin Bandleader |
| The Mambo Kings | 1992-02-28 | Himself |
| Yo soy, del son a la salsa | 1997-09-12 | |
| Calle 54 | 2000-10-06 | Himself |
| Celia Cruz & Friends: A Night of Salsa | 1999-01-02 | |
| Nueva York : une histoire musicale du New York latino | 2021-12-10 | Self (archive footage) |
| Slim Gaillard’s Civilisation | 1989-10-22 | Self |
| Armed and Dangerous | 1986-08-15 | Band Leader |
| The Simpsons | 1989-12-17 | Tito Puente (voice) |
| New York Undercover | 1994-09-08 | |
| Late Night with Conan O’Brien | 1993-09-13 | Self – Musical Guest |