Rafael Ithierhistorical figure of salsa and one of the founders of The great combination of Puerto RicoHe died this Saturday at the age of 99 from health complications, as confirmed by several musicians and relatives on social networks.
According to a close source quoted by EFEthe renowned pianist and conductor “was hospitalized with pneumonia and couldn’t get over it.”
Ithier’s legacy was marked by almost seven decades dedicated to salsa. He was the founder, leader, arranger and pianist of The Gran Combo from Puerto Rico is considered one of the most important orchestras of this genre in the world.
He was also recognized as “the most visionary and effective businessman there has been and will be in the history of salsa,” according to the salsa singer. Victor Manual when he fired him on social media Facebook.
“You go, but your legacy and your music remain valid in all of us who make this genre of music we call salsa. Thank you for every advice, every conversation, every exchange on stage. They will be stories that I will never forget,” added the artist, who expressed his regret at the news.
Olga TanónAlso, a prominent Puerto Rican singer, reacted to the musician’s departure: “Thank you for giving us so much, for teaching us so much, for your professionalism, affection and respect,” she posted on the same platform.
“Your contribution to music has a before and an after. I am grateful that I had the honor of meeting you and sharing beautiful moments with you.” You left surrounded by music that reached the whole world. I will always carry you in my heart with the greatest affection and gratitude. Rest in peace, beloved and respected Rafael Ithier.”
Among the recent performances of Rafael Ithier and El Gran Combo, their participation in the Christmas special of the Banco Popular de Puerto Rico “Estampas de mi tierra” stands out, where they perform the song “Alegría y paz”. This special will be broadcast on Sunday on Puerto Rico’s main television networks and YouTubegiving thousands of followers the opportunity to pay tribute to his life and music.
The music group Sonora Ponceña Founded in 1954 under the leadership of the pianist Papo Lucca, joined the messages of condolence: “Today heaven receives a giant of music, and on earth remains an eternal legacy. We share the deep pain of the family of Rafael Ithier and express our most sincere condolences to each member of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico,” the group explained on social networks. They emphasized that Ithier’s life was “synonymous with discipline, vision, respect and love of music” and that his contribution “not only shaped generations, but made Puerto Rican salsa known throughout the world.”
From Colombia, the Salsa Orchestra Guayacán expressed its pain: “Today Latin American music says goodbye to one of its giants. Don Rafael Ithier, founder and soul of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, leaves us a legacy that will last for generations. His story is written in every chorus, every timpani and every salsa step. Thank you. Rest in peace.”
Rafael Ithier was born on August 29, 1926 in San Juan and from a young age he was involved in music, influenced by his family environment: his father Nicolás led a bohemian group and his uncle Salvador was a guitarist and second voice of the Trío Borinquen.
The world of salsa said goodbye Rafael Ithiera benchmark of the Caribbean genre whose artistic and commercial legacy is remembered and celebrated by musicians and listeners around the world.
El Gran Combo’s recording debut came with the album “Shake my hands‘, in which the Dominican singer took part Joseto Mateo. With this release, the group began an extensive journey that took Salsa to different corners of the world.
In the early 1960s, after the release of their first album, El Gran Combo quickly added five more productions, including key tracks such as “Acangana(1963) and “The Dung Horse” (1964).
The orchestra has been recognized throughout its history two Latin Grammy Awards– also had a notable presence on Puerto Rican television, notable for producing twelve weekly programs over a seven-year period.
(With information from EFE)