Eddie Palmieri is a legendary pianist, composer, and bandleader whose innovative fusion of Afro-Caribbean rhythms and modern jazz has made him one of the most influential figures in Latin music. Born in Spanish Harlem and raised in the Bronx, Palmieri began performing professionally as a teenager and went on to revolutionize salsa and Latin jazz with his band La Perfecta, known for its bold use of trombones and jazz-infused arrangements.

Over a career spanning seven decades, Palmieri has released numerous groundbreaking albums—including Harlem River Drive and The Sun of Latin Music—and has earned 10 Grammy Awards, including the first-ever Grammy for Best Latin Recording in 1975. He’s collaborated with icons like Tito Puente, Carlos Santana, and Little Louie Vega, and remains a creative force, consistently pushing genre boundaries with projects like Sabiduria and Mi Luz Mayor.

Palmieri’s impact has been recognized by the Library of Congress, the NEA Jazz Masters Award, and institutions worldwide.