We've heard a lot of great Latin Jazz over the past five years on Jazz Caliente, thanks to our supporting listeners! Here are some other notable birthdays this week.
A master percussionist in his hometown of Havana, Cuba, Carlos "Patato" Valdes would have been 95 this past Thursday. He moved to the United States in 1954 and became one of heralds of Latin Jazz. Known for his contribution to creating the tunable conga drum and for expanding the standard two-drum setup into 3 or 4, he was also an entertainer whose stories, jokes and dances kept audiences mesmerized.
Also Havana-born, but raised in Miami, percussionist, vocalist and bandleader Mayra Casales also has a birthday this Saturday. She's been a first-call percussionist for hundreds of recordings and leads the all-women group Cocomama.
A Jazz Caliente favorite, trumpeter Arturo Sandoval turns 71 on Saturday. Proficient in jazz, Latin jazz and classical music, Sandoval was mentored by jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie.
Join the birthday party for Jazz Caliente this weekend!
Jazz Caliente airs Saturdays at 5 p.m. The show is hosted by Robin Lloyd and produced by KNKX Public Radio.
