This album "EL GRAN COMBO - Y Su Pueblo" is the title of the 1986 studio album released by Puerto Rican salsa group, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico. The album became the second #1 album to top the Billboard Tropical Albums chart ironically dethroning the group's previous album,
Released in 1986, "Y Su Pueblo" by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico is a defining album in the band’s illustrious career and an essential piece of salsa history. Produced by Ralph Cartagena and released under Combo Records, this album solidified El Gran Combo’s dominance in the salsa genre, as it quickly climbed to the top of the Billboard Tropical Albums chart, dethroning none other than their own previous release. The achievement underscored the band’s immense popularity and their unmatched ability to connect with audiences through their music.
An Expression of Puerto Rican Salsa at its Peak
As one of Puerto Rico’s most beloved salsa groups, El Gran Combo had already earned a reputation as “La Universidad de la Salsa” (The University of Salsa). With "Y Su Pueblo", the band continued to uphold this legacy, delivering an album that embodies the spirit of Puerto Rican salsa with its vibrant rhythms, powerful brass sections, and deeply resonant lyrics. The 12" vinyl LP format brings the album's energy to life, capturing the warmth and fullness of each instrument, from the rhythmic percussions to the bold horn arrangements that define El Gran Combo's sound.
The Production and Style of "Y Su Pueblo"
Produced by Ralph Cartagena, "Y Su Pueblo" reflects the high-quality production values that were becoming a staple of salsa recordings in the 1980s. Cartagena's meticulous production brought out the best in each band member’s performance, allowing every musical element to shine. The album’s sound is rich and layered, with the instrumentation and vocals perfectly balanced to create a dynamic listening experience. From the lively, danceable beats to the emotive lyrical delivery, "Y Su Pueblo" offers listeners a powerful taste of Puerto Rican salsa at its peak.
With a total album weight of 230 grams, including the cover, the vinyl edition of "Y Su Pueblo" is a collector’s item that offers fans an authentic and immersive way to experience El Gran Combo’s music. The vinyl's analog warmth enhances the natural sound of each track, making it a prized possession for audiophiles and salsa enthusiasts alike.
Cultural Impact and Commercial Success
The success of "Y Su Pueblo" was not only a testament to El Gran Combo’s popularity but also to the group’s influence in Latin music. The album reached the top of the Billboard Tropical Albums chart, marking the second time that El Gran Combo had achieved this feat. Ironically, "Y Su Pueblo" displaced their own prior release from the number one spot, a rare accomplishment that highlighted their unparalleled appeal. This achievement reinforced El Gran Combo's position as salsa icons and trailblazers in the genre.
In the broader context of Latin music, "Y Su Pueblo" played a significant role in bringing Puerto Rican salsa to a global audience. During the 1980s, salsa was becoming an international phenomenon, and albums like "Y Su Pueblo" helped bridge the cultural gap, introducing audiences around the world to the infectious rhythms and storytelling traditions of Puerto Rican salsa. For many, this album served as an introduction to El Gran Combo's artistry, sparking a lifelong appreciation for salsa music.
Why "Y Su Pueblo" is Essential for Salsa Fans
"Y Su Pueblo" is more than just a successful album; it’s a celebration of El Gran Combo’s enduring connection with their roots and their fans. The album's title, which translates to "And Their People," speaks to the group's commitment to representing Puerto Rican culture and the everyday experiences of their listeners. Through its rhythms, melodies, and lyrics, "Y Su Pueblo" captures the essence of Puerto Rican life, bringing a sense of community and pride to those who listen.
For fans of salsa and collectors of Latin music, the 12" vinyl release of "Y Su Pueblo" is a must-have. It encapsulates an era when salsa was at its peak, and El Gran Combo was leading the charge, shaping the genre and inspiring future generations of musicians. The album’s balance of lively arrangements and emotional depth showcases the band’s versatility and commitment to their craft.
A Lasting Legacy
Decades after its release, "Y Su Pueblo" remains a beloved part of El Gran Combo's discography and a staple in salsa music collections. Its legacy is felt not only in Puerto Rico but across Latin America and beyond, where El Gran Combo’s music continues to bring joy, inspire dance, and unite communities. "Y Su Pueblo" stands as a testament to El Gran Combo’s ability to capture the essence of Puerto Rican culture and share it with the world.
|
Music Genre: Salsa de Puerto Rico |
|
Album Production Information: The album: "EL GRAN COMBO - Y Su Pueblo" was produced by: Ralph Cartagena |
|
Record Label & Catalognr: Combo Records RCSLP 2048 |
|
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
|
Year & Country: 1986 Made in US |
Complete Track-listing of the album "EL GRAN COMBO - Y Su Pueblo" |
|
The detailed tracklist of this record "EL GRAN COMBO - Y Su Pueblo" is:
|
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "EL GRAN COMBO - Y Su Pueblo" |
|
The album cover for "Y Su Pueblo" by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico captures a joyous, community-focused scene. The band members, dressed in matching light gray outfits, are surrounded by a large, diverse crowd of fans, friends, and family (approximately 45 people in the photo). Everyone is smiling, waving, and interacting warmly, creating a festive, welcoming atmosphere that emphasizes the album’s title, which translates to "And Their People." The bright yellow and red title banner at the top of the image adds a vibrant touch, making it clear that this album celebrates the band’s connection to their community and their roots. |
Album Back Cover Photo of "EL GRAN COMBO - Y Su Pueblo" |
|
Enlarged & Zoomed photo of "EL GRAN COMBO - Y Su Pueblo" Record's Label |
|
|
Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, also known as "La Universidad de la Salsa," is one of the most iconic salsa bands in the world. The group was formed in 1962, and since then, it has become a beloved institution in Puerto Rico and throughout Latin America. In the 1980s and 1990s, El Gran Combo continued to produce hit after hit, solidifying their status as one of the most important salsa bands in history.
During the 1980s, El Gran Combo released a series of albums that became instant classics. These included "En Acción," "El Gran Combo '82," "Aquí No Se Sienta Nadie," and "Happy Days." These albums featured some of the band's biggest hits, including "El Menú," "La Loma del Tamarindo," "La Fiesta de Pilito," and "El Gran Combo Boogaloo." The band's unique blend of salsa, boogaloo, and other Latin rhythms made them a hit with fans all over the world.
In addition to their musical accomplishments, El Gran Combo was also known for their high-energy live performances. The band's shows were known for their tight arrangements, lively choreography, and infectious energy. Fans would pack stadiums and dance the night away to El Gran Combo's signature sound.
As the 1980s turned into the 1990s, El Gran Combo continued to produce hit albums and singles. The band's 1990 album, "El Swing del Gran Combo," featured the hit single "Achilipú," which became one of the band's biggest hits of all time. Other hit albums from this era included "Por el Libro" (1991) and "Nuevo Milenio - El Mismo Sabor" (1999).
Throughout the 1990s, El Gran Combo remained at the forefront of the salsa scene, despite the rise of other genres such as reggaeton and merengue. The band's enduring popularity was a testament to their incredible musicianship, catchy melodies, and ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.
In 1992, El Gran Combo celebrated their 30th anniversary with a massive concert in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The concert, which was attended by over 50,000 fans, featured some of the band's biggest hits and was a testament to their lasting legacy.
Today, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico continues to tour and perform, bringing their unique brand of salsa to fans all over the world. The band's enduring popularity is a testament to their incredible talent and the timeless appeal of their music. As long as there are fans who love to dance and sing along to classic salsa hits, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico will continue to be one of the most beloved bands in Latin music history.
MUSART MPI 80187 , 1990 , Mexico
"20 Anos de Exitos" is a compilation album of some of the best songs of the Salsa band from Puerto Rico
Learn more
COMBO Records RCSLP 2060 Series 898 , 1989 , USA
"Ameme" is the 1989 studio album released by the Puerto Rican salsa band, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico. The album became the group's fifth #1 album to top the Billboard Tropical Albums chart.
Learn more
Combo Records RCSLP-2070 Series 00998 , 1990 , USA
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, commonly known as El Gran Combo, is a Puerto Rican Salsa music orchestra. It is Puerto Rico's most successful musical group, and one of Salsa's most famous groups across Latin America. In 1983 Colombian people involved in musical matters gave them the moniker La Universidad de la Salsa (The University of Salsa).
Learn more
Combo Records RSCLP 2045 Series 00898 , 1985 , USA
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, is Puerto Rico's most successful musical group, and one of Salsa's most famous groups across Latin America. In 1983 Colombian people involved in musical matters gave them the moniker La Universidad de la Salsa (The University of Salsa).
Learn more
COMBO Records RCSLP 2068 , 1988 , Colombia
"Romantico y Sabroso" is the 1987 studio album released by Puerto Rican salsa group, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico. The album is considered El Gran Combos first release dominated by the distinct sub-genre known as salsa romantica.
Learn more
Combo Records RCSLP 2048 , 1986 , USA
"Y Su Pueblo" is the title of the 1986 studio album released by Puerto Rican salsa group, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico. The album became the second #1 album to top the Billboard Tropical Albums chart ironically dethroning the group's previous album,
Learn more