Eddie Palmieri, the legendary pianist, composer, and bandleader who helped revolutionize Latin music and fuel the salsa explosion in New York City, has died at the age of 88.
His death was confirmed in a statement posted on his official Instagram account, which said Palmieri passed away peacefully at his home in New Jersey on Wednesday, August 6.
“A legendary pianist, composer, bandleader, and one of the most influential figures in Latin music history, passed away in his New Jersey residence,” the post read, accompanied by a photo of the artist.
Fania Records, the iconic salsa label with which Palmieri was closely associated, paid tribute to the icon, calling him “one of the most innovative and unique artists in music history.”
“We will miss him greatly,” the label said.
Born in Spanish Harlem, New York City, to Puerto Rican parents, Palmieri was the younger brother of renowned pianist Charlie Palmieri. He began studying piano at an early age, taking lessons at Carnegie Hall while also learning to play the timbales.
He launched his professional music career as a teenager, eventually performing with several prominent Latin bands, including a two-year tenure with famed Puerto Rican bandleader Tito Rodriguez.
In 1961, Palmieri founded his own band, La Perfecta, which brought a bold new sound to Latin music by replacing traditional trumpets with trombones. The group’s innovative approach helped reshape the future of salsa.
His 1965 hit “Azúcar Pa’ Ti” (Sugar For You) became a Latin dancefloor classic and was later added to the U.S. Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry for its cultural significance.
In 1975, Palmieri became the first Latin musician to win a Grammy Award, taking home the prize for Best Latin Recording with his groundbreaking album The Sun of Latin Music. He would go on to win a total of 10 Grammy Awards over the course of his career.
Beyond musical innovation, Palmieri was known for his political consciousness. His 1969 album Justicia (Justice), featuring vocalists Ismael Quintana and Justo Betancourt, addressed themes of social inequality, racism, and justice — a bold move at a time when such messages were rare in mainstream Latin music.
In 1972, Palmieri made headlines again when he performed at New York’s Sing Sing prison in front of an audience of mostly Black and Latino inmates.
“For all humanity!” he reportedly shouted through a loudspeaker. “No walls, no fear… only one thing in life: freedom in the years to come.”
A statement posted on Palmieri’s social media described him as “a mentor, teacher, and tireless advocate for Latin music and culture. He inspired generations of musicians and moved countless listeners with his artistry, conviction, and unmistakable sound.”
Palmieri is survived by five children and four grandchildren. His wife, Iraida Palmieri, died in 2014.
AFP
