Join us for a tribute to the late and legendary Johnny Pacheco by Papo Santiago & Infraverde Orchestra presented as part of Water Colors in partnership with Navy Pier.

Pacheco was a world-renowned flutist and co-founder and musical director of Fania Records in the 1960s and became one of the leading architects of the music that would come to be known as salsa. He recently passed away on February 15th, 2021 at age 85.

Papo Santiago & Infraverde Orchestra will keep Pacheco’s memory alive with a performance that highlights some of his timeless arrangements infused with Latin Jazz!

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Papo Santigo started his journey in his birthplace Ponce, Puerto Rico. While studying at Universidad Interamericana de San German Puerto Rico, Santiago was recruited by La Terrifica in the early 1970’s to play bari-saxophone.  The bands international acclaim paved the way for Santiago’s incursion into the world of salsa. 

Santiago moved to Chicago in the 1980’s where he carved a niche for himself and mastered other instruments which include flute, vocals, and guitar. Santiago’s exploration as a professional singer was a natural step in in the evolution of his sonero style which includes unique improvisation.  In his improvisations, Santiago combines a street-wise sense of humor with a unique approach to rhythm and swing. 

Some of Santiago’s original music include Boca de Rio, Corrillo and Elvira which can be found on Spotify and Apple Itunes.

Presented in partnership with: