Ray Barretto
Ray Barretto was an American percussionist and bandleader of Puerto Rican descent who became a leading figure in Latin jazz and salsa.
Origins
Active from 1961 until his death in 2006, he scored his first hit with "El Watusi" in 1962 with his Charanga Moderna, the most successful pachanga song in the United States.
The sound
He played a wide range of Latin styles and Latin jazz, becoming a leading exponent of boogaloo and salsa while keeping recordings rooted in traditional forms like son cubano. He was a master of the descarga.
Legacy
A long-time member of the Fania All-Stars, he carried his success through the 1970s with songs like "Cocinando" and later formed the New World Spirit jazz ensemble, touring and recording until his death.
Signature song
Indestructible
"Indestructible" is among his signature songs, a salsa classic that embodies the powerful sound of his bands.
Top songs
- 1
Indestructible ★
Masterwork Indestructible · 2009
- 2
Acid
Acid (Remastered 2024) · 2024
- 3
Que Viva la Música
Que Viva la Música · 2022
- 4
Cocinando
Anthology · 2012
- 5
El Watusi
Charanga Moderna · 1962