Overview
- His death was reported Saturday at age 99, with several artists confirming the news on social media and some reports citing health complications.
- As director, arranger, pianist and composer, he forged El Gran Combo’s signature sound and built a durable model for the orchestra’s work.
- He formed the group in 1962 after departing Rafael Cortijo’s ensemble, joining with Rogelio “Quito” Vélez, Martín Quiñones, Miguel Cruz, Eddie Pérez, Héctor Santos and Roberto Roena.
- He had scaled back his workload since 2007, delegating functions to pianist and arranger Willie Sotelo while remaining the orchestra’s leader.
- Reports list his survivors as his wife, Carmen Soto, and six children, and note a discography of more than 70 releases, including the 2016 album Alunizando.