Raymond Barretto Pagán

Raymond Barretto Pagán, known as 'el manos duras', was a prominent Puerto Rican percussionist and bandleader credited with significantly shaping the salsa genre. Born in 1929, he was recognized for his masterful timbales and conga playing, blending elements of jazz, soul, and Latin music. Barretto's innovative approach and collaborations with notable artists made him a key figure in the Latin music scene, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. His concert at the Beacon Theater in 1976 marked a significant transition in his career as he moved from salsa to broader musical influences, ultimately influencing generations of musicians.