PETE "EL CONDE" RODRIGUEZ (SALSA SINGER)

Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Pete “El Conde” Rodriguez was one of salsa’s most talented voices. Pete was to earn the nickname “El Conde” (The Count) because of his unsurpassed majestic stage presence.

Known for his great ability to improvise during his performances, Pete “El Conde” is regarded today as one of the truly great salsa soneros “singers” of all time.

After relocating to New York City in the 50’s decade, Pete would be at the epicenter of the Latin music explosion that took over the city of New York.

Groundbreaking recordings by “El Conde” start with 1963’s as the lead vocalist for FANIA’s very first recording: Johnny Pacheco’s legendary “Cañonazo” (Cannonball.) Pete’s vocal style was a product of the tropical streets of his beloved Puerto Rico and the electrifying avenues of the island known as Manhattan.

Pete’s influence in the New York salsa scene cannot be overestimated, and its influence can still be felt to this very day. From being a founder member of the original Fania All Stars line-up, to producing some of the most beautiful and hard-hitting albums of the sixties and seventies, Pete “El Conde” Rodriguez is one of the pillars on which the house of salsa was built upon.

Enjoy Pete’s music, and relieve the passion and excitement of the golden age of New York Salsa: the sound that continues to shake the world!

source: www.faniarecords.com