The late Ray Barretto, Mr. Hard Hands, Grammy winner, was a Godfather of Latin Jazz. He not only elaborated that fusion of Latin and Jazz sounds but also pioneered various styles ranging from Boogaloo to Charanga to straight ahead Salsa. His long and illustrious career began in NY where he was born and raised learning to play the congas. He worked his way up the ranks visiting clubs and participating in jam sessions with the best players on the scene. In 1963 he scored the first latin song ever to enter the Billboard chart with El Watusi . He continued to record following various musical paths and genres releasing masterpieces such as Acid and Indestructible, and having his music sampled as of late are reminders that the solo artist and longstanding member of the Fania All Stars will not soon be forgotten.