Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Founded in 1962 by Ithier, who was for many years the pianist and musical director of the orchestra, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico ...

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Rafael Ithier, a beloved musician and a founder of the legendary salsa band El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, whose hits have inspired Bad Bunny and other icons from the U.S.

The venerated bandleader, dead at 99 years old, inspired generations, from Bad Bunny to Marc Anthony. By Leila Cobo Chief Content Officer Latin/Español, Billboard Rafael Ithier, the dynamic and ...

Rafael Ithier, leader of the salsa band El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, has died, The Associated Press reports. He was 99. The news was confirmed by an attorney for the Ithier family, Víctor Rivera, to ...

Rafael Ithier, founder of the emblematic salsa group El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, has died at age 99. The pianist, composer and arranger — who served as the orchestra's longtime musical director — ...

The band -- founded by the late Rafael Ithier -- has placed more than 40 songs on the Tropical Airplay chart, including 15 top 10s. By Sigal Ratner-Arias Deputy Editor, Billboard Español The founder ...