As we continue to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month it's only fitting to feature Latin jazz percussionist Sammy Figueroa. Born in the Bronx here in NYC at a young age he started playing professionally. He first joined Latin jazz bassist Bobby Valentin at 18 and has played with the best of the best in both jazz and rock.

Sammy Figueroa may have been born here in NYC but was raised in Puerto Rico. His musical roots stem from his father Charlie Figueroa who is a known romantic singer. Later he moved back to New York and was making a name for himself but after many years decided to move to South Florida. There he found himself immersed in a multitude of music from Latin Cuban jazz to Brazilian music and much more. He found his voice and started his band Sammy Figueroa and his Latin Jazz Explosion.

He made his debut with his album ….And Sammy Walked In and has released several albums since then. He has also played with such jazz legends as Miles Davis, Quincy Jones, and Sonny Rollins. As well as Chaka Khan, David Bowie, Mariah Carey, and so many others. He is considered one of the best congueros and critics have said he is the next conguero after Ray Baretto and Mongo Santamaria to pick up the mantle. He just released his new album, Searching For Memory (Busco Tu Recuerdo) which is a tribute to his dad’s romantic songs. He is joined on the album by the great Cuban jazz pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba and several guests. Support independent music and musicians worldwide. Happy listening!

THE JAZZ CAFE

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