Rafael Ithier, a monumental figure in the world of salsa music and a founding member of the iconic band El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, has passed away at the age of 99. His death was confirmed by family attorney Víctor Rivera, who spoke to radio station WKAQ on the evening of October 14, 2023. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Mayor of Ponce, Marlese Sifre, expressed profound sorrow over Ithier’s passing, stating, “Puerto Rico has lost a giant, a man whose life was dedicated to elevating our identity through the art and rhythm that distinguishes us to the world.” Ithier, known for his vibrant personality and musical genius, served as the founder and musical director of El Gran Combo, which has been a cultural cornerstone in Puerto Rico since its inception.
Born in San Juan and raised in the working-class neighbourhood of Río Piedras, Ithier experienced personal loss early in life when he lost his father at eight years old. He found solace in music, picking up the guitar at the age of ten. According to the National Foundation for Popular Culture, he performed for tips at local corner stores during his childhood.
By 14, Ithier left school due to economic hardships and began working various jobs. His musical journey began in earnest when he joined his first group, Conjunto Hawaiano, where he learned to play the Cuban tres and double bass. He later became self-taught on the piano and learned to read sheet music.
In his mid-20s, Ithier served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Korea, before moving to New York City, where he formed the Borinqueneers Mambo Kings. He eventually joined Cortijo y Su Combo, a band that significantly influenced his career. After a setback when their lead singer, Ismael Rivera, was arrested, Ithier contemplated abandoning music for a law career. This decision changed when he was persuaded by two Cuban brothers to help establish El Gran Combo.
The band had its debut performance in May 1962 at the Rock’n Roll Club in Bayamón, where Ithier’s piano skills captivated audiences. He led El Gran Combo for more than five decades, during which the group became known as “the University of Salsa” for mentoring numerous aspiring musicians.
In a 2016 interview with Primera Hora, Ithier reflected on his life, attributing the orchestra’s success to the discipline he learned while serving in the Army. “I learned to be a man and to obey an order. That discipline is what I apply to my life,” he stated. Under his leadership, El Gran Combo produced over 40 albums and became famous for hits such as “Jala Jala,” “Me Liberé,” “Y No Hago Más Ná,” and “Un Verano en Nueva York.” These songs have inspired a new generation of artists, including global superstar Bad Bunny.
Charlie Aponte, a legendary singer who performed with El Gran Combo, shared his heartfelt memories of Ithier on social media, describing him as a father figure who instilled values of responsibility, discipline, and professionalism in his musicians. “He made us all better human beings,” Aponte wrote.
Ithier’s legacy extends beyond music. Agustín Montañez Allman, Puerto Rico’s government advocate for veteran affairs, praised him as “one of those immortals who has brought glory to our country.” Puerto Rico’s Governor, Jenniffer Colón, also expressed her condolences, announcing plans for an official mourning period, saying, “His legacy transcends borders and lives on through generations. Thank you so much, maestro.”
Rafael Ithier’s contributions to the world of music and his dedication to Puerto Rican culture will be remembered and celebrated by fans and musicians alike. His influence remains indelible, echoing through the rhythms and beats of salsa music around the globe.