Ernest Anthony Puente Jr. (April 20, 1923 – May 31, 2000), commonly known as Tito Puente, was an American musician, songwriter, bandleader, timbalero, vibraphonist, and record producer. Born in New York City to Puerto Rican immigrants, he grew up in Spanish Harlem where early lessons in piano, drums, and dance laid the foundation for his musical career. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he earned the nickname "El Rey de los Timbales" (The King of the Timbales) for his legendary skills as a percussionist.
Puente was a pioneer in mixing Latin styles with jazz, playing a crucial role in the development of mambo, salsa, and Latin jazz. His compositions were highly dance-oriented, and his legacy established him as a key figure of the genre. His music and performances also appeared in films, contributing to the global reach of Latin music.
The influence of his work remains recognized globally, with posthumous projects and compilations continuing to represent his legacy, including the albums "Exitos Eternos" in 2004 and "2En1" in 2017.