Alfredito Linares – Salsa pa’ Todo el mundo

Alfredito Linares is a Peruvian musician—pianist, composer, and arranger—who has explored a wide variety of genres, including salsa, boogaloo, Latin jazz, and Afro-Cuban jazz. Since the early 1960s, he has stood among the finest exponents of tropical and Latin American salsa, and is now widely regarded as a true legend. DJ Gonzo is a pianist, percussionist, and DJ.

Linares was born and raised in El Callao, Peru. His musical studies shaped an eclectic taste that eventually led him to the raw, old-school salsa sound he’s known for today. DJ Gonzo, with his unique style and richly curated salsa sets, is one of Texas’ most beloved salsa DJs.

In 2014, under the Gonzo Productions label, this masterful new album was released. Linares—the legend—and DJ Gonzo—who brought his deep musical knowledge and hand-picked each track for this ambitious project—teamed up for a powerful return to the studio. Most of the songs revisit highlights of Linares’ past work, now presented with even more energy and impact. Tracks like Tihuanaco and Machu Pichu marked turning points in his career and are reborn here with renewed strength.

Also included is Mi Bomba Sonó, a track originally recorded by Celia Cruz and La Sonora Matancera, later revisited by La Banda y Su Salsa Joven—with Linares on piano. Sabrosito, originally sung by Colombian crooner Nelson Pinedo, was also reinterpreted by La Gran Banda de Venezuela, again with Linares at the keys. The vocals, delivered by William Viafara—director, lead singer, and trombonist of La Misión Orquesta—are outstanding throughout the album.

Mi Hijo y Yo, a fan favorite, was first recorded by Dominican singer Joseito Mateo. Here, it shines with a phenomenal new arrangement featuring Viafara’s standout vocals and a blazing trombone performance by Carlos Latoche.

Cuban Fantasy, composed by Ray Bryant, features Diego Giraldo on a fiery trumpet solo. Also included is Ain’t No Sunshine, the Bill Withers classic beloved across North America and Europe. Gonzo brought this gem into the mix, with Danny Gómez lending his soulful voice to a heartfelt rendition.

This month, Latina Stereo is proud to recommend this album—a celebration of Alfredito Linares’ enduring legacy and his triumphant return to the studio. Still active on stages around the world, Linares continues to champion the genre our listeners love most.