Alfredo "Chocolate" Armenteros

Chocolate Armenteros photo 2

Alfredo "Chocolate" Armenteros (April 4, 1928 – January 6, 2016) was a renowned Cuban trumpet player and a leading figure in the world of Latin jazz and Afro-Cuban music. Born in Havana, Cuba, Armenteros was affectionately nicknamed "Chocolate" due to his sweet tone and the smooth, rich quality of his music. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he became known for his versatility, having played in a variety of musical styles including son cubano, guajira, bolero, charanga, and salsa.

Biography

Alfredo Armenteros was born into a musical family and showed an early interest in music. He began his career in the late 1940s, quickly establishing himself as a talented trumpeter in Havana's vibrant music scene. In the 1950s, he joined the renowned Sonora Matancera, where he played alongside Celia Cruz, among others. His ability to blend traditional Cuban rhythms with the emerging sounds of jazz earned him widespread acclaim.

In the 1960s, following the Cuban Revolution, Armenteros moved to New York City, where he became a key figure in the explosion of Latin music, contributing to the development of what would later be known as salsa. He collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Tito Puente, Machito, Eddie Palmieri, and Mongo Santamaria, further cementing his reputation as a master trumpeter.

Throughout his career, Armenteros recorded over 100 albums, both as a leader and as a sideman. His distinctive playing style, characterized by its lyrical quality and technical proficiency, made him a sought-after musician not only in the realm of Latin music but also in jazz circles worldwide.

Legacy

Alfredo "Chocolate" Armenteros left an indelible mark on the world of Latin music. His contributions to the genres of son cubano, salsa, and Latin jazz have been recognized by musicians and critics alike. He was known not only for his exceptional musical talent but also for his warmth and generosity, mentoring younger musicians and sharing his passion for Afro-Cuban rhythms.

Armenteros passed away in 2016, but his music continues to inspire new generations of artists. He is remembered as one of the great trumpet players of the 20th century, a bridge between the musical traditions of Cuba and the innovative sounds of American jazz.

Discography

A comprehensive list of Alfredo "Chocolate" Armenteros' recordings would include both his work as a bandleader and his numerous collaborations. Some of his most notable albums include:

• Chocolate Aquí (1976)
• Chocolate y Amigos (1984)
• Chocolate en Sexteto (1990)

See Also

• Afro-Cuban jazz
• Music of Cuba
• Latin jazz
• Salsa music