by Carlos Cataño
After more than 50 years of contributions to the world of Latin Music, pianist, percussionist, and composer Eddie Palmieri continues to dedicate his life to putting smiles, happiness and rhythm into people's hearts. From the popular salsa, to the complex rhythms of Charanga, Latin Jazz, Mambo, Son, Montuno, Latin Soul, Boogaloo, and Cha-Cha, this Latin master knows no boundaries.
On Tuesday night (12/13), Eddie Palmieri and his Orchestra graced the historic Copacabana stage to celebrate his 75th birthday. The orchestra consisted of Eddie on piano, two trumpets, two trombones, timbalero (timbales), congero (conga), cowbell, tres (a Caribbean string instrument), bass, and Herman Olivera as lead vocalist.
They embraced the dancing audience with “Yo No Soy Guapo (I’m not tough).” Allowing no time for break, they medleyed through “Yo No Soy Guapo” and “La Muñeca (The Doll)”. The echoing chorus of “Ay Mi Muñeca Perdoname” (Please forgive me, Baby Doll)” had the crowd joyously singing along while Palmieri graced the stage with his smile and his signature banging of the keys.
After a brief intermission, the bassist ripped through “La Ocha Tambo”, most likely leaving his fingers full of sores and blisters. The crowd was unable to stay still, as we moved with every strum. The rhythm of the timbales, conga and cowbell penetrated and then jumped to the brass, which blew energy straight to the crowd past the bar and out onto the streets of New York City.
Palmieri ended the evening with a trio of hits: “Lindo Yambu”, “Oye Que Te Conviene” and “Vamanos Pa’l Monte”, delighting both dancers and listeners. Everyone knew they were in the presence of a true star; all of those present won't soon forget these moments in musical utopia.