WBAI Pacifica Radio station 99.5 FM in New York City reported that Latin Jazz great Ray Barretto passed on this morning at about 5:30 am EST. The 76 year old maestro had been struggling following open heart surgery earlier this year. Ray Barretto was born to Puerto Rican parents in Brooklyn on April 29, 1929. He is credited with being the first U.S.-born percussionist to integrate the African-based conga drum into jazz, affirming through the medium of music the African roots of Puerto Rico. Barretto played with Tito Puente’s band in the late ’50s and later recorded with Cannonball Adderley, Freddie Hubbard, Cal Tjader and Dizzy Gillespie. Rest in Peace maestro. You live on through your talent and gift of music.

Via / WBAI