As a jazz fan, even if I weren’t involved with Middle C Jazz, I’d be here with ticket in hand at least twice a week. No other club in the area matches our variety—from local stars and national acts to straight-ahead, smooth, and funky jazz. But even by our standards, I am beyond excited for this one: Tito Puente Jr. and Nestor Torres.

Our booking team pulled a fast one here. This is a show that belongs in a massive venue, yet you’ll be close enough to (almost) touch the artists in our intimate space. If you know Latin Jazz, you know this will be a legendary, high-octane celebration of rhythm never before seen in Charlotte.

To appreciate Tito Puente Jr., you must understand the titan who came before him. Tito Puente Sr. began playing timbales at thirteen in Spanish Harlem. His journey took him from Afro-Cuban bands in Miami to the Navy during WWII—where he taught himself saxophone—and eventually to Juilliard. This unique pedigree made him a master composer and the “King of Mambo,” famously blending big-band jazz with driving Afro-Cuban percussion.

After his career was revitalized by Santana’s cover of “Oye Como Va” in the ’70s, Puente Sr. became a central figure in the salsa movement. By the time of his passing in 2000, he had produced a staggering 117 albums, earned six Grammys, and received the National Medal of Arts.

Today, that legacy lives on through his son. Tito Puente Jr. received a formidable education touring with his father, and while he cites “The King” as his greatest influence, he isn’t a carbon copy. By incorporating electronic influences and his own modern flair, he keeps the music fresh and relevant for a new generation.

Between his busy global tour schedule of festivals and casinos, we are incredibly lucky to land him at Middle C. Whether you know him from his albums like Got Mambo? or his work with The Big 3 Palladium Orchestra, you know this is an event for the ages.

Get your tickets now—they won’t be on sale for long!

Join us January 17th for a night of high-octane latin jazz with Tito Puente Jr and Grammy-winning flautist Nestor Torres.

Article written by jazz fan Scott Homewood.