Latin music icon Eddie Palmieri dies at 88

Eddie Palmieri, iconic bandleader and pianist, tragically passed away on Wednesday at the age of 88.

Well known jazz music label Fania Records announced his death, having released several of his classic records.

"Today, Fania Records mourns the loss of the legendary Eddie Palmieri, one of the most innovative and unique artists in music history,” they wrote.

He released a collection of albums in the 1960s and 70s with his orchestra La Perfecta, including tracks like Bilongo, Café and La Malanga.

He was the child of Puerto Rican parents, born in Spanish Harlem in New York City, having got his start in music through his uncle’s ensemble.

His brother, Charlie Palmieri also went on to become a beloved salsa and Latin Jazz musician.

Describing the explosive mix present in his music, Palmieri said in an interview, "It's definitely going to excite you. I don't guess I'm going to excite you with my music. I know it."

He won his first Grammy award for his album The Sun of Latin Music which he made through teaming up with a teenager from Puerto Rico named Lalo Rodriguez.

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