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2w ago

Eddie Palmieri, Latin Jazz Innovator, Dies at 88

A ten-time Grammy winner, he spent seven decades revolutionizing rhythms rooted in Afro-Caribbean traditions.

FILE - Pianist Eddie Palmieri poses for a portrait in New York, Aug. 15, 2011. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)
FILE - Tito Puente Jr., center, speaks after Eddie Palmieri, left, and the late Tito Puente win the Grammy for best salsa album for "Masterpiece/Obra Maestra," at the 43rd annual Grammy Awards, Feb. 21, 2001, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Kevork Djansezian, File)
FILE - Grammy Award winner Eddie Palmieri performs during his concert "Listen Here" at Tito Puente Amphitheatre in San Juan, Puerto Rico, April 7, 2005. (AP Photo/Herminio Rodriguez, File)
Latin pianist and jazz pioneer Eddie Palmieri has died at the age of 88 after prolonged illness.

Overview

  • Palmieri died on August 6, 2025 at his home in New Jersey after an extended illness, with Fania Records and his family confirming the news.
  • In 1961 he formed La Perfecta, introducing a trombone section that redefined the brass sound of salsa orchestras.
  • He was the first Latino artist to win a Grammy and accumulated ten Grammy Awards over a career spanning nearly 40 albums.
  • His honors include the NEA Jazz Masters Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Recording Academy.
  • He is survived by five children and four grandchildren who will carry forward his Afro-Caribbean musical legacy.