Rafael Ithier Natal is a renowned Puerto Rican salsa musician who founded the orchestra El Gran Combo. He was born in Río Piedras, which is now part of San Juan. In 2016, he celebrated his 90th birthday and was interviewed by a news outlet in Puerto Rico about his contributions to Puerto Rican music.
It’s mesmerizing to see this old man revolutionizing the music industry with his unique taste. Rafael Ithier is just old by age but young at heart.
Let’s dive deeper into this article and now more about the current scenario of El Gran Combo.
Rafael Ithier Love for Music in Times of Korean War
Rafael Ithier Natal grew up in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, he had a deep love for music from his childhood. His parents were Nicolas Ithier and Mérida Natal. It’s amazing to know that he shares his love for music with his uncle, Salvador Ithier.
Rafael Ithier also did heroic act, he served in the United States Army during the Korean while stationed in Korea, he even formed a music group called Los Borinquena Mambo Boys.
Rafael Ithier Worked with Various Bands
Rafael Ithier Natal had a diverse musical career. He started as a guitarist in the bolero genre and was part of the Tito Henriquez group called Taone. His motivation for music gained more after seeing his sister supporting him. Rafael’s sister named Speranza also inspired him to learn how to play the piano. He also had a close friendship with another musician named Rafael Cortijo, and they even worked together in Cortijo’s orchestra, “Cortijo y su Combo.” Before that, Ithier Nadal was part of a group called the “Borinqueneers Mambo Boys” in New York. In 1977, he worked as a music arranger for the debut album of the Puerto Rican ensemble band “Puerto Rico All Stars.”
El Gran Combo Formation – Rafael Ithier
In 1962, Rafael Ithier Nadal formed “El Gran Combo”, becoming the orchestra’s leader. As of 2012, he was still the orchestra leader and continued to tour with the group.
He also mentioned how El Gran Combo reached greater heights on his 90th birthday.
El Gran Combo Impact in Columbia
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, which was founded by Rafael Ithier also known as El Gran Combo, is an incredible salsa orchestra from San Juan, Puerto Rico. They had an amazing journey with all the ups and downs. During 2012 the group celebrated their 50th anniversary.
It’s amazing to know the reason behind being nicknamed as “La Universidad de la Salsa” in Colombia because so many talented salsa musicians and singers have been a part of the group or started their careers with them.
Willie Sotelo Love for El Gran Combo – Rafael Ithier
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, which was founded by Rafael Ithier in May 1962, is still going strong after 60 years. Willie Sotelo, who was musical director of El Gran Combo, made tours until the very end.
Rafael Ithier – Heart and Soul of El Gran Combo
Although El Gran Combo is a collective ensemble, Rafael Ithier unwavering commitment and love for music made him the heart and soul of the El Gran Combo group. However, Ithier has always emphasised the band’s lack of hierarchy and the importance of their shared system.
Rafael Ithier shared in an interview with Billboard magazine that they distribute everything equally whether it’s successes, failures, or earnings.
Rafael Ithier El Gran Combo Success and Singers
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, one of the most iconic salsa bands founded by Rafael Ithier, had an incredible journey to success. Their first album, “Menéame los mangos,” was released in 1963 and featured the talented Joseito Mateo as the lead vocalist. It’s amazing how their second album, “Acángana,” became a massive hit, reaching number one in New York City, Panama, and Puerto Rico. This opened up doors for them in Latin American markets. In 1967, their album “Boogaloo con el Gran Combo” also reached gold status.
El Gran Combo Members Success
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico founded by Rafael Ithier really made a name in the music industry. The band received numerous awards in Latin America and even got their first Grammy nomination with the album “In Alaska: Breaking the Ice.” Their 20th anniversary celebration at Madison Square Garden must have been the talk of the town.
Rafael Ithier and their performances in Paris and Alaska show their global reach. El Gran Combo continues to make their mark on the music world, and their success is well-deserved.
| Name | Rafael Ithier |
| Born | August 29, 1926 Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico |
| Genres | Salsa, son Montuno |
| Occupation | Musician |
| Years active | 1945 – present |
| Labels | Combo records, Tico, Fania, Columbia records |
| Genres | Salsa |
| Members | Jerry Rivas Joselito Hernández Anthony Garcia Rafael Ithier Freddie Miranda Luis “Taty” Maldonado Moisés Nogueras Freddy Rivera Domingo “Cuqui” Santos Miguel “Pollo” Torres |
Rafael Ithier 2006 – Gruelling Year
In 2006, Rafael Ithier faced some problems regarding his health issues and made the decision to step back from live performances. But he continued tours with the band, he now focuses on conducting rather than playing the piano.
Despite his health problems he remains the bandleader and plays a crucial role in guiding the group.
Rafael Ithier Age
Rafael Ithier, an iconic band leader who won the hearts of many people around the globe and made a huge fanbase by simply following his passion, is 97 years old as of 29 Aug 1926. It is well said ‘age never undermines passion’.
Summary
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, also known as El Gran Combo, is a renowned Salsa music orchestra hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico founded by Rafael Ithier was established in 1962 and has achieved immense success worldwide. El Gran Combo”the most popular Salsa group that has ever existed.” Their influence and unwavering commitment have earned them the nickname “La Universidad de la Salsa” (The University of Salsa) in Colombia. This is due to the numerous talented salsa musicians and singers who have either started their careers with the group, such as Andy Montañez, or have been supported by them on occasion, including Celia Cruz, Héctor Lavoe, and La India.
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