Tito Rodriguez was Latin Music Premier Entertainer
Posted on 07. Jan, 2012 by Hector Aviles in Blog
This week marked the 89th birthday of Puerto Rican Latin music legend Tito Rodriguez. When I remember the Salsa and Bolero master, I think as much of his silky voice as of his ability as an entertainer.
Salsa star Gilberto Santa Rosa regards Tito Rodriguez as one of his Latin music models, and I assume it is because of the elegance and entertainment ability Tito Rodriguez displayed during this career. A product of the Machito’s band, along with legendary timbalero Tito Puente, Rodriguez developed an amazing on-stage presence, along with assembling one of the best quality orchestra’s of the era. Rodriguez’s band was one of the best dressed bands, and Tito (as many of his ex-musicians have asserted) was very finicky about everyone looking squeaky clean.
With his good looks and sharp attire, Tito Rodriguez attracted a big female following. He used his charm and showmanship to entertain the crowd by talking and engaging the audience. Tito would crack jokes, dance, play the timbales, or come up with anything to keep the audience engaged. This crack for showmanship earned him a TV show in Puerto Rico.
Tito’s versatility extended to his music. He could sing just about anything, and was one of the few singers that could sing Salsa and Boleros especially well. Gilberto Santa Rosa emulates Tito Rodriguez in almost every aspect, except that he can’t sing boleros that well. Gilberto does have the elegance, charm, and singing ability of his idol, and has developed as a great entertainer as well.
On his birthday week, I want to remember one of the Big 3 of Latin music because Tito Rodriguez was our premier entertainer. Check out the below video clip of his TV show, where he acts, sings, and plays the timables.
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