Latin jazz bandleader, composer. Best known as one of the pioneers of the "cha-cha" in the United States. Young graduated at the Conservatory Molinas in Havana, after co-founded the Orquesta Havana Riverside in Cuba, in 1939 he moved to the United States where played the piano for several well-known musicians, including Xavier Cugat. In 1942, Curbelo with his band, began to popularize a musical genre consisting of a mixture of big-band jazz with Afro-Caribbean rhythms. Among the most famous musicians who played in his orchestra during the 40's, Tito Puente and Tito Rodriguez. During his career he has recorded numerous songs, including the classics "Managua, Nicaragua", "Live at the China Doll", "Cha Cha Cha in Blue" and "La Familia", became latin jukebox standards. He passed away because of heart failure.
Latin jazz bandleader, composer. Best known as one of the pioneers of the "cha-cha" in the United States. Young graduated at the Conservatory Molinas in Havana, after co-founded the Orquesta Havana Riverside in Cuba, in 1939 he moved to the United States where played the piano for several well-known musicians, including Xavier Cugat. In 1942, Curbelo with his band, began to popularize a musical genre consisting of a mixture of big-band jazz with Afro-Caribbean rhythms. Among the most famous musicians who played in his orchestra during the 40's, Tito Puente and Tito Rodriguez. During his career he has recorded numerous songs, including the classics "Managua, Nicaragua", "Live at the China Doll", "Cha Cha Cha in Blue" and "La Familia", became latin jukebox standards. He passed away because of heart failure.
Bio by: Lucy & Chris
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