Chano Pozo, the greatest drummer
especiales
Luciano Pozo González (1915-1948), better known as Chano Pozo, is a legend of Cuban music. A great percussionist, he surprised audiences on big stages with his mastery of the drums.
Part of that mystique has to do with the humility of his origins. He shined shoes and sold newspapers, played music in many places and danced in the well-known “Los Dandy” troupe.
He belonged to the Abakuá society and in his congas he used to introduce religious themes. He worked in the public broadcasts of the radio station Cadena Azul. He went to the United States and there he made history in the nightlife of clubs and cabarets, together with stars like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie.
With Dizzy, he popularized the song "Manteca," which is now a classic. Jazz and Afro-Cuban touches, a perfect mix. No coincidence that Chano Pozo is regarded as a pioneer.
Chano Pozo died very young, 33 years old. A fight in a bar ended a meteoric rise. But in the neighborhoods of Havana where he played his drums, his spirit is still alive, which is ultimately the immortal spirit of rumba.
Rumberos de ayer
Benny Moré
I get emotional
Every time I remember
the famous drummers
I get emotional
Oh Chano, Chano Pozo died
The death of Andrea Baró
Malanga also died
Ninon and Paulito died
Mulense and René died
Oh Chano, Chano Pozo died
Without Chano I do not want to dance
I cannot do it anymore
To the rumba, I go no more (without Chano)
I do not want to dance on the rumba (without Chano)
Oh people, I'm not going anymore (without Chano)
Anita wants to play, uh! (without Chano)
Break boy, break!
Look, God sends you to glory!
Oh baby, I do not want to dance
To the rumba, I go no more
If Chano Pozo is not there, I go no more
Yes, to the rumba I go no more
Without Chano.
Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff
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