Rafael Ithier of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico arrives at the Lifetime Achievement and Trustees Awards presentation in Las Vegas in 2015. Ithier has died at age 99.
Credit: Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP
Rafael Ithier, founder of the emblematic salsa group El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, has passed away at the age of 99. He was a pianist, composer, and arranger who dedicated over six decades to making El Gran Combo one of the leading salsa institutions in Latin America and beyond.
“Today we bid farewell to not only a great musician, but the architect of a sound that marked generations,” reads a statement shared on the orchestra’s social media accounts. “A leader whose discipline, vision, and love for salsa forged the history of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico and of Latin music in the world.”
Born in San Juan in 1926, Ithier began playing guitar at the age of 10 and later mastered the piano, becoming his signature instrument. He joined various musical groups, including The Borinqueneers Mambo Kings and Cortijo y Su Combo, before eventually leading El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico.
As salsa rose to popularity in the 1970s, El Gran Combo became synonymous with the genre in Puerto Rico. The group’s music captured the essence of salsa, blending mambo, Afro-Cuban rumba, and jazz influences. Ithier’s leadership and musical direction guided the orchestra to international acclaim.
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico was not only a renowned musical ensemble but also a training ground for many salsa musicians. Ithier’s legacy in salsa music was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Latin Grammys in 2015.
Following his passing, tributes poured in from musicians, collaborators, and fans, recognizing Ithier’s immense contribution to the world of salsa music. His dedication and passion for music will forever be remembered.
