Bebo Valdés

Pianist

Birthday October 9, 1918

Birth Sign Libra

Birthplace Quivican, Cuba

DEATH DATE Mar 22, 2013 (94)

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About

Pivotal figure in the golden age of Cuban music, helping to develop mambo and Latin jazz. He brought Afro-Cuban sacred rhythms into dance music.

Before Fame

He developed his skills in Havana's nightclubs where he became a regular during the 1940s.

Trivia

He was the leader of two well-known big bands and also served as one of the Tropicana Club's house arrangers.

Family Life

He fathered five children by first wife Pilar, including future pianist Chucho Valdés.

Associated With

He recorded with Nat King Cole during the latter part of the 1950s.