Tito Puente: The American Who Made Us Mambo

Tito Puente, the legendary "Mambo King," known for his infectious multicultural percussion, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and crossover compositions, left an enduring legacy on American music. Despite his numerous accolades and global fame, his personal story, particularly his service in World War II, remained largely untold.

Tito Puente, born Ernest Anthony "Tito" Puente Jr., bridged cultures as a master musician, percussionist, pianist, saxophonist, vocalist, composer, orchestrator, arranger, and conductor. His musical prowess spanned generations and genres, earning him the title "El Rey" (the King).

Tito Puente: The American Who Made Us Mambo

Raised in Spanish Harlem, Puente's musical journey began at age 7 with the piano. By age 13, he turned professional, playing over a dozen instruments. His big break came in the early 1940s as the drummer for the Machito Orchestra.

However, the world had other plans. When Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, Puente joined the U.S. Navy at age 18. He served aboard the escort carrier USS Santee (CVE-29) from 1942 to 1945, witnessing firsthand the horrors of war. Though he never spoke about his experiences, scars on his face bore silent testimony to the trauma he endured.

Tito Puente: The American Who Made Us Mambo

After the war, Puente returned to music with a newfound drive, attending Juilliard School on the G.I. Bill. By the 1950s, he had become a pioneering hitmaker, infusing Latin music with jazz and other genres. His signature hit, "Oye Como Va," released in 1962, became a global smash, reintroducing him to a wider audience.

Puente's music continued to captivate generations, with Carlos Santana's 1970 rendition of "Oye Como Va" introducing it to a new era. Puente's large band found success in a time when rock and pop dominated, and his royalties from Santana's hit became a windfall.

Tito Puente: The American Who Made Us Mambo

Despite his global fame, Puente remained devoted to his family, raising his children on the Upper West Side near Lincoln Center. He received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the National Medal of Arts from President Bill Clinton and a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammys.

In 2000, Puente passed away at age 77, surrounded by his family. His legacy continues to inspire musicians and audiences worldwide. East 110th Street in Spanish Harlem, his childhood home, has been renamed Tito Puente Way, and a vibrant mural adorns the corner. Puente's star shines on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, commemorating his enduring contribution to American music as the "Mambo King."

Tito Puente: The American Who Made Us Mambo