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 Tony Bennett and Candido CameroLP is proud to announce that Candido was honored in New York City on September 30 by a premiere of the film Candido: Hands of Fire followed with a special ASCAP achievement award ceremony and reception which featured a speech by Candido’s good friend, Tony Bennett.
Produced by acclaimed independent film director Ivan Acosta, the film examines the life of a master percussionist, one who began decades ago in Cuba beating on two condensed milk cans in lieu of bongos. Later Candido’s uncle purchased a set of bongos for him. He also taught him to play tres, a Cuban stringed instrument. In 1946, Candido emigrated to the United States where his impact was felt immediately in New York and later across the country. It was the golden age of Latin jazz and Candido was a key figure in transforming the folkloric son into to the dancehall favorite, salsa.
Bringing Cuban music “uptown” is but one aspect of Candido's career. He is also credited with pioneering the use of multiple congas, sometimes juggling up to three of them at a time when other congueros were playing a single drum. Immediately commended for his melodic lines and groove, Candido became sought after by the greats of the day, including Charlie Parker, Dizzy
Gillespie, Machito
and his Afro-Cubans, Mario Bauza, Stan Kenton, Tommy Dorsey, Patti Page, Tony Bennett, and Charo.
In Candido: Hands of Fire, the artist reminisces about his humble background and his transition to stardom on the American circuit. Throughout the film, it is obvious that Candido has retained his humility and generosity of spirit. Scores of contemporary artists, including Bobby Sanabria, Tony Bennett, Billy Taylor, and David Chesky, give testimony to Candido's essential humanity and pivotal artistic contributions,.
An LP artist for several decades, Candido is widely acknowledged for his contributing role in introducing congas into jazz and popular music. He was also the first percussionist to embrace the use of fiberglass congas. A peer of legendary figures such as Armando
Peraza, Mongo Santamaria, and Francisco Aquabella, Candido remains active to this day. For example, the CD Inolvidable, which reunites him with the great son singer Graciela Perez, has received glowing reviews. Now in his eighties, Candido remains an active and respected member of the LP artist roster and his good friends at LP salute him!
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