By Laura Eckles, KCCK Programming Intern

One of the most influential Afro-Cuban jazz percussionists is without a doubt, Poncho Sánchez. Sánchez has been performing for more than three decades. Apart from his solo career, Sánchez has been featured on many albums including Tito Puente, Freddie Hubbard, Terrence Blanchard, and many others. His “Latin Soul,” received a Grammy award in 1999 for Best Latin Album.

Sanchez’s first big break came when his idol, vibraphonist Cal Tjader, hired him after hearing him play just one set with Tjader’s band. His last album released was, “Chano y Dizzy (2011),” a collaborative album with Terrence Blanchard. Sánchez and Blanchard emit ebullient and passionate playing into this afro-cuban jazz album. . Today, Sánchez is internationally acclaimed by percussionists and jazz experts. His albums include the technique of layering Latin jazz, Afro-Cuban, salsa, bop, funk, and rhythm and blues. Poncho Sánchez will be performing at the Iowa City Jazz Festival on Saturday, July 2, at 9 p.m. on the Main Stage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lWSYD0tj2M