Michel Camilo

The Profile

Michel Camilo is a Dominican pianist and composer known for high-velocity Latin jazz that blends Afro‑Cuban rhythms with modern jazz language. After early orchestral experience in the Dominican Republic, he developed his voice in New York, collaborating with artists including Tito Puente and Paquito D’Rivera. His catalog spans trio, big band, solo piano, and classical projects.

Dominican jazz pianist and composer active since the 1970s; early tenure with the National Symphony Orchestra of the Dominican Republic; significant New York period; worked with Tito Puente (from 1983) and Paquito D’Rivera; debut album Why Not? released in 1985; Thru My Eyes revisits standards with strong Latin and Afro‑Cuban drive; notable collaborators cited in reviews include Dave Weckl, Anthony Jackson, John Patitucci, Lincoln Goines, Cliff Almond, and Horacio Hernandez.

Two glowing DeBaser reviews celebrate Michel Camilo’s explosive Latin jazz and Afro‑Cuban fusion, spotlighting Why Not? (1985) and Thru My Eyes. Expect dazzling technique, rhythmic fire, and lyrical turns. The write-ups note key collaborators like Dave Weckl and Anthony Jackson, and praise Camilo’s clarity, swing, and Caribbean pulse.