Machito

Machito, born Francisco Raúl Gutiérrez Grillo in 1909 in Cuba, was a prominent Latin jazz musician who significantly influenced Afro-Cuban jazz and the development of Cubop and salsa music. Active from 1928 until his death in 1984, he founded the Afro-Cubans in 1940, blending Cuban rhythms with big band jazz. His collaborations with notable musicians and innovative compositions earned him a Grammy Award in 1983. Throughout his career, Machito left a lasting impact on the music scene, inspiring artists such as Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker. His legacy includes a designated intersection in East Harlem named "Machito Square" in his honor.

GENRES: Jazz, Instrumental