“A pianist of imperial command, possessed of a dazzling, deceptively casual virtuosity” – New York Times
Cuban pianist, composer, and arranger Chucho Valdés is the most influential figure in modern Afro-Cuban jazz. Here, in a rich career spanning sixty years, he has won seven Grammy and seven Latin Grammy Awards. Moreover, Chucho pushes boundaries in pursuit of new expressions in Afro-Cuban music. Additionally, his influence in the genre is immeasurable, establishing the standard by which younger generations create their own.
Chucho received musical education through formal studies and countless nights on the best stages in Cuba. There, he performed with his father, Bebo Valdés, and his orchestra Sabor de Cuba, and with the seminal Orquesta Cubana de Música Moderna. Chucho is acclaimed as the founder, pianist, and main composer and arranger of Irakere, a landmark ensemble in Cuban music. Also, Chucho led Irakere for more than thirty years, but since 2005 he has focused on his personal career. Here, he showcases his piano prowess with small ensembles, like the Afro-Cuban Messengers, Jazz Batá, and his acclaimed Royal Quartet.
Chucho has been named an NEA Jazz Master. Additionally, he earned a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences. Also, he was inducted into the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame, and received a DC Jazz Festival Lifetime Achievement Award. There, he joined an illustrious list that includes Kenny Barron, James Moody, Ellis Marsalis, George Wein, and Dave Brubeck.
Valdés is a restless visionary forever evolving Afro-Cuban music. Further, he is as creative and playful as ever on his Grammy-nominated, Latin Grammy-winning release, 2024’s Cuba & Beyond.
Recommended for fans of Arturo Sandoval, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Alfredo Rodriguez and Nachito Herrera.
