Introduction

Roberto Roena, a celebrated figure in salsa music, was a percussionist, dancer, and bandleader. Known for his innovative contributions to Latin music, Roena’s legacy continues to influence musicians and salsa enthusiasts worldwide. This article delves into Roberto Roena songs, net worth, age, career milestones, awards, family background, and more.

Category	Details
Real Name	Roberto Roena
Popular Name	Roberto
Gender	Male
Birth Date	January 16, 1940
Age	81 years (As of 2021)
Date of death	September 23, 2021
Parents	Francisco Roena, Raquel María Vázquez Plaza
Children	Brenda, Gladys, Ivan and Francisco
Birthplace	Dulces Labios, Puerto Rico
Nationality	American
Marital Status	Married
Dating	N/A
Net Worth	$1 million

Early Life and Background

Roberto Roena was born on January 16, 1940, in Dulces Labios, a neighborhood of Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. He grew up in a musically inclined family and began his artistic journey as a dancer at a young age. Roena moved to Santurce, a vibrant San Juan, Puerto Rico neighborhood, where he immersed himself in the emerging salsa scene.

Early Career

At the beginning of his career, Roena performed dance routines in his hometown alongside his brother Cuqui. At the age of 9, his family got settled in Santurce, where the brothers refined their mambo and cha-cha-chá routines in public contests. This led them to join TV program “La Taberna India” on WKAQ-TV. Roena’s ability to play the conga drum was noticed by percussionist Rafael Cortijo during the broadcasts, and Cortijo taught him how to play the bongos under his wing.

Rise to Fame

Cortijo y Su Combo

Roberto Roena’s career began in the late 1950s when he joined the dance group Cortijo y Su Combo, led by the legendary Rafael Cortijo. As a dancer and percussionist, Roena contributed to the group’s success, helping to popularize the bomba and plena rhythms. His unique style and energy on stage made him a standout performer. Roena remained part of Cortijo’s group and his Combo for seven years.

El Gran Combo

In 1962, Roena joined El Gran Combo, where he continued honing his percussionist and arranger skills. During his time with the band, Roena contributed to several hit songs and gained further recognition in the Latin music community. He remained a member of the group until 1969.

y su Apollo Sound

In 1969, Roberto Roena took a significant step in his career by forming his own band, Roberto Roena y Su Apollo Sound. The group became known for its innovative fusion of salsa with other genres, such as jazz and rock. Roena’s experimental approach to music set him apart from his contemporaries, and his band quickly became one of the most influential salsa orchestras of the time.

Roberto Roena Songs

Roberto Roena’s discography is filled with salsa classics that have stood the test of time. Some of Roberto Roena songs are:

·         Que Se Sepa

A vibrant and energetic track that became one of Roena’s signature songs.

·         Mi Desengaño

A soulful piece that showcases Roena’s ability to convey deep emotions through music.

·         Cui Cui

An upbeat and infectious tune that remains a favorite on salsa dance floors.

·         Traición

A powerful song that highlights the themes of love and betrayal, familiar in salsa music.

·         El Escapulario

Known for its catchy rhythm and memorable lyrics, this song is a staple in Roena’s album.

Awards and Achievements

Throughout his career, Roberto Roena received numerous accolades and honors for his contributions to Latin music. In a successful concert at the Centro de Bellas Artes in San Juan in 1994, he celebrated 25 years with his orchestra. In 2003, Roena was admitted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame.

Roberto Roena’s Net Worth

Roberto Roena’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million. This wealth was primarily accumulated through his long and successful career in music, including record sales, live performances, and royalties from his extensive catalog of songs.

Personal Life

Roberto Roena kept much of his personal life private, though it is known that he was deeply connected to his family and roots in Puerto Rico.

Family

Raquel María Vázquez Plaza and Francisco Roena were Roena’s parents. He had two daughters and two sons named Brenda, Gladys, and Ivan, and Francisco, respectively.

Age and Physical Appearance

As of 2021, he was 81 years old. He was known for his charismatic stage presence and distinctive style, often wearing vibrant and flamboyant outfits that matched the energy of his performances. His agility as a dancer and percussionist made him a dynamic figure on stage, captivating audiences with his every move.

Death

Roena died in a hospital after suffering from a heart attack in California, Puerto Rico on September 23, 2021. He was interred at Monte Calvario Cemetery in Caguas, Puerto Rico.

Legacy and Influence

Roberto Roena’s influence on salsa music cannot be overstated. As a musician, bandleader, and innovator, he pushed the boundaries of the genre and inspired countless artists to explore new musical territories. His contributions to salsa continue to resonate with fans and musicians around the world, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.

Read More: – John Paul Monahan Net Worth

Conclusion

Roberto Roena was a true legend in the world of salsa, whose music and influence continue to inspire and captivate. From his early days as a dancer to his rise as a pioneering bandleader, Roena’s journey is a testament to his talent, creativity, and passion for Latin music. Although he may no longer be with us, Roberto Roena songs, achievements, and legacy live on, reminding us of the enduring power of salsa and the indelible mark left by one of its greatest stars.

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