Overview
- Family attorney Víctor Rivera confirmed Ithier’s death to WKAQ on Saturday, with no cause disclosed.
- Gov. Jenniffer Colón said the island will observe an official mourning date in recognition of his cultural impact.
- As founder and musical director, he led El Gran Combo for more than five decades, releasing over 40 albums and touring five continents.
- Signature songs, including “Un Verano en Nueva York,” influenced contemporary artists; Bad Bunny has cited the group and posted a photo tribute on Sunday.
- A self-taught musician and U.S. Army veteran who once formed The Borinqueneers Mambo Kings, Ithier is survived by a wife and five children.