He was the oldest founding member of Puerto Rico Gran Combo and died at a hospital in Puerto Rico, said yesterday Mariel Perez, daughter of the artist.
The saxophonist of 78 years died of a blood infection after amputation of a foot, so said his daughter.
Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, in 1935, and debuted at 13 years of age as a musician and played the saxophone for over 60 years. Nicknamed “The Bullet”, was famous for shaking his left shoulder before playing.
It was one of two original band members left alive. El Gran Combo celebrated its 50th anniversary last year.
El Gran Combo of Puerto Rico has released more than 40 albums. In 2003 won a Grammy Award for Best Tropical Album.
