Latin Jazz Pioneer Eddie Palmieri Dies at 88

Eddie Palmieri, a pioneering pianist, composer, and bandleader who profoundly shaped Latin jazz and salsa, died at the age of 88 at his New Jersey home after an extended illness. Born in Spanish Harlem to Puerto Rican parents, Palmieri revolutionized Latin music over a career spanning more than seven decades, notably founding the band La Perfecta in 1961, which introduced trombones to salsa and created a distinct New York sound. He was the first Latino artist to win a Grammy and earned eight Grammys throughout his career, with influential albums like "Azúcar Pa’ Ti" and "Harlem River Drive" blending Afro-Caribbean rhythms, jazz, and political themes. Palmieri was known for his powerful piano technique and his commitment to social justice, often incorporating lyrics about political issues. His legacy includes elevating salsa beyond its dance roots to a vehicle for cultural expression and social commentary, and he remained active in music well into his 80s. He is survived by his five children and was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 60 years, Iraida Palmieri.