<< 1 >>
Rating: 
Summary: A vital contribution to our cultural heritage.
Review: As a longtime fan of "El Rey," I enjoyed reading about Tito Puente. He is not only a Latino icon but an American institution, even if English-only America refuses to recognize his cultural and musical contributions. The author does a workman's job in exploring Puente through various interviews with musicians, dance promoters, writers, and friends who know Puente well. The book offers good insight into how Puente developed his great sound and establishes the fact that he is a true musical genius like Gershwin and Ellington before him. While the book is the first true biography of Puente, I'm disappointed that it will not reach more people than it should. Unless the reader has an established grasp of Afro-Cuban music and is familiar with musicians in the field, my fear is that the general reader will get lost and lose interest in the book. It's not an accessible book for those who know little to nothing about the music. Still, it's a vital contribution to our understanding of Puente, Afro-Cuban music and the critical role that Latinos have played in developing America.
Rating: 
Summary: A great portriat of "El Rey," Tito Puente!
Review: I loved this book! Admittedly, I am a huge fan of Tito Puente, so my opinion may be a little biased. However, in light of his many achievments and the joy his music has spread throughout the world, it is only fitting that we honor Tito Puente while he is still with us. Thanks to the author, Steven Loza. The book gives us an overview of Tito's life then proceeds to zero in on various aspects of Tito's career through interviews with Tito and various musicians who have shared the spotlight with him. I was particularly impressed with Joe Conzo's honesty. Joe Conzo is a historian, close friend of Tito's and his "curator." Many of the musicians interviewed are able to speak volumes about Tito's awesome musical talent. However, Joe Conzo manages to humanize Tito and show us a side of the man we rarely see. Perhaps the most significant aspect of this book is that one cannot read it without being in awe of Tito Puente's many accomplishments. From the Palladium era in the 50's to Salsa in the 90's, Tito has done it all. As he often says, he has been there and back. The author's closing thoughts dwell on the spiritual aspects of Tito's music and the joy his music brings. Tito's music brings people together regardless of race, color or creed. It has been said that the Mambo has done more for race relations in this country than our government! This book is an important part of Latin music history. Also, it is now an essential part of Tito Puente's legacy. We all know Tito Puente's music, or at least we all should! Allow Steven Loza to introduce you to the man. Tito Puente recently celebrated his 76th birthday and is going strong. Palante Tito!
<< 1 >>
| 
