"In 1971, pianist, composer and bandleader Eddie Palmieri put out a formative album called Harlem River Drive. Written in the heat of racial turbulence, its lyrics addressed the inequality Puerto Ricans faced in New York City. The album served as a form of protest, as well as commentary on social-justice issues for the people of El Barrio, East Harlem.
Though the Latin funk classic didn't take off in the early '70s, it later became an underground classic. Its enduring songs remain relevant today.
Forty-five years after its release, Eddie Palmieri packed a Harlem amphitheater in the rain. No one had heard Harlem River Drive performed on stage in decades, until now. This edition of Jazz Night In America highlights that special moment." WBGO News
PERFORMERS
Eddie Palmieri (piano/bandleader), Arturo Ortiz (keyboard/musical director), Kelli Sae (lead vocals), Keyontia Hawkins (vocals), Solomon Hicks (vocals/guitar), Flaco Navaja (vocals), Josette Newsam-Marchak (vocals), Chris Turner (vocals), Louis Fouché (tenor/alto saxophone), Javier Olivencia (baritone saxophone), Jimmy Bosch (trombone), Jonathan Powell (trumpet), Igmar Thomas (trumpet), Andres Abenante (guitar), Zaccai Curtis (Fender Rhodes), Luques Curtis (bass), José Claussell (percussion), Little Johnny Rivero (congas/bongos), Nicky Marrero Jr. (percussion/timbales), Camilo Molina (drums), Bernard Purdie (drums).