Eddie Palmieri

Eddie Palmieri is one of the most important and well-known Latin jazz pianists of the second half of the 20th Century, blessed with a technique that blends jazz influences – such as the styles of Herbie Hancock, Thelonius Monk and McCoy Tyner- in a Latin context.

Just like his older brother Charlie, Eddie Palmieri began to study music at an early age and made his professional debut with Johnny Sequi’s orchestra. In 1961 he formed the influential band La Perfecta, which awoke the admiration of jazz musicians and Cal Tjader.

After the 1968 separation of de La Perfecta, Palmieri played with Fania All-Stars, and recorded with Alfredo "Chocolate" Armenteros, Cachao, and Justa Betancourt. In the mid sixties he began to formally study to be an arranger and Thelonius Monk’s influence was made more evident.

While he was recording for Latin Coco, he began blending salsa with rhythms such as R&B, pop, rock, and jazz improvisation. He continued making records throughout the 80’s and 90’s, although huge success continued to be elusive.

« Back