El Gran Combo - Ameme ( Latin, Salsa ) 12" LP Vinyl Album

- Salsa fire from Puerto Rico that turned 1989 into a storm of rhythm passion and unforgettable brass

large album front cover photo of: gran combo ameme

Released in 1989, Ámame by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico captures the orchestra at the height of its power, blending traditional salsa roots with the softer edge of salsa romántica. The album features vibrant horn arrangements, irresistible rhythms, and heartfelt lyrics that secured its place atop the Billboard Tropical Albums chart. Its striking cover shows the band in Central Park, gathered around a grand piano, with a sexy Latina in a flowing white dress adding allure and elegance to this iconic salsa image.

El Gran Combo – "Ámame" Album Description:

Released in 1989, "Ámame" by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico stands as a vital entry in the history of Latin music and salsa. This album was a commercial success and a cultural touchstone, marking El Gran Combo's fifth album to top the Billboard Tropical Albums chart. As one of the world’s most renowned salsa bands, El Gran Combo took their place once more at the top, with "Ámame" serving as a testament to their unmatched consistency and impact in Latin music.

The Sound and Style of "Ámame"

In "Ámame", El Gran Combo deftly blends rhythmic salsa with lyrical depth, producing a sound that is at once vibrant and profoundly resonant. The album encapsulates the era’s stylistic shift, where salsa evolved to include more romantic and socially aware lyrics. True to form, "Ámame" is deeply melodic, with arrangements that prioritize the punchy brass sections, smooth rhythm, and expertly layered vocals that characterize El Gran Combo's sound.

Key tracks such as "Ámame" and "Aguacero" showcase the group’s capacity for innovation within salsa’s framework. The album opens with a dynamic momentum, seamlessly fusing traditional salsa roots with a contemporary appeal that made it accessible to both long-time fans and newcomers to the genre. Each song is marked by a pulsating rhythm section and lyrical narratives that touch on themes of love, passion, and respect—staples of salsa storytelling.

Commercial Success and Cultural Impact

Upon its release, "Ámame" rose quickly to the top of the Billboard Tropical Albums chart, marking it as a major success in both the United States and Latin America. This was El Gran Combo’s fifth album to achieve the coveted #1 spot, a clear indicator of their influence and enduring popularity. The commercial success of "Ámame" in the late 1980s highlighted the sustained appeal of traditional salsa in an era when other Latin genres were rising in popularity.

"Ámame"’s success was bolstered by El Gran Combo’s rigorous touring schedule, with performances across Latin America, the Caribbean, and North America. These tours were instrumental in bringing the album’s songs to a live audience, reinforcing the band's reputation as "La Universidad de la Salsa" (The University of Salsa) for their polished, electrifying live performances.

Why "Ámame" Stands Out

"Ámame" is significant not only for its commercial success but for how it bridged traditional and contemporary salsa sounds. During the late 1980s, salsa romántica was growing in popularity, with themes of romance and softer musical arrangements appealing to a broader audience. However, El Gran Combo stayed true to their roots in Puerto Rican salsa while skillfully incorporating themes of love and desire, striking a balance that resonated with fans old and new. This approach kept the group relevant, even as salsa continued to evolve.

El Gran Combo’s formula for success—staying true to salsa’s roots while subtly adapting to contemporary trends—is a cornerstone of their legacy. "Ámame" embodies this adaptability, with sophisticated arrangements, flawless musicality, and lyrics that speak to universal themes.

Legacy of "Ámame"

More than three decades since its release, "Ámame" remains a celebrated album in salsa music’s history. For El Gran Combo, this 1989 release affirmed their role as icons and innovators in Latin music. It also contributed to the global salsa movement, inspiring musicians and fans alike.

With its blend of rhythmic complexity, lyrical richness, and commercial appeal, "Ámame" is more than an album; it is a salsa milestone. For fans of Latin music, it represents an era where salsa maintained its roots while embracing new directions, forever cementing El Gran Combo’s place at the heart of salsa culture.

Production & Recording Information:

Music Genre:

Salsa de Puerto Rico

Label & Catalognr:

COMBO Records RCSLP 2060 – Series 898

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:

1989 – Puerto Rico (Released in USA)

Recording Location:

Tele Sound Studios – Hato Rey, Puerto Rico

Producers:
  • Rafael Ithier – Producer
    Founding member and musical director of El Gran Combo, Ithier’s leadership and piano style define the group’s sound.
  • Ernesto Sánchez – Producer
    Key collaborator on production and arrangements, shaping the orchestral balance of the album.
  • Ralph Cartagena – Productor Ejecutivo
    Head of Combo Records; his executive oversight ensured wide distribution and commercial success.
  • Bobby Rodríguez – Asistente Productor Ejecutivo
Sound & Recording Engineers:
  • Papo Sánchez – Ingeniero de Grabación & Mezcla
    Handled the delicate balance of percussion, brass, and vocals; crucial for the crisp, energetic salsa sound.
Musical Arrangements:
  • Ernesto Sánchez – Arreglos Musicales
    Brought depth and polish to the brass and rhythm arrangements.
  • Louis García – Arreglos Musicales
    One of Puerto Rico’s most renowned arrangers; added sophistication to the album’s orchestrations.
  • Rafael Ithier – Arreglos Musicales
    Combined his role as director with arranging duties, keeping the music rooted in the group’s tradition.
Album Cover Design & Artwork:
  • Evi Marchany – Arte Gráfico
    Evi Marchany was a respected Puerto Rican graphic designer who operated her own design studio in Puerto Rico. She became well known in the 1980s salsa scene for creating bold and colorful album artwork, blending photographic elements with stylish typography that gave many local productions a professional and modern identity.
Photography:
  • Jorge Velázquez – Fotografías
  • Frandith & Pedro – Asistentes Fotógrafos
Additional Credits:
  • Iris Pagán – Maquillaje & Coordinación

Band Members / Musicians:

Band Line-up (Part 1):
  • Rafael Ithier – Piano, Director & Dirección Musical
    Founder of El Gran Combo, Ithier’s piano style and leadership have defined the band since its inception in 1962.
  • Charlie Aponte – Cantante & Coro
    Joined in 1973, Aponte became one of the group’s most beloved vocalists, known for his smooth voice and charisma.
  • Jerry Rivas – Cantante & Coro
    Lead singer from 1977 onward, Rivas brought youthful energy and carried the band’s vocals into a new era.
  • Papo Rosario – Cantante & Coro
    Joined in 1979, remembered for his stage presence, humor, and versatility as a singer and dancer.
  • Taty Maldonado – Trompeta
  • Víctor B. Rodríguez – Trompeta
Band Line-up (Part 2):
  • Eddie Pérez – Saxofón
  • Freddy Miranda – Saxofón
  • Fanny Ceballos – Trombón
  • Freddy Rivera – Bajo
  • Miguel Torres – Conga
  • Guajín Santos – Timbales
  • José Miguel Laboy – Bongo

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Ámame (Palmer Hernández) (5:27) Single
    The title track and the most promoted single from the album, a chart-topping hit on Billboard’s Tropical list.
  2. Otra Vez Enamorado (Marisela Tavarez) (4:49)
    Romantic salsa tune that fits well with the late-1980s salsa romántica trend.
  3. Tu Mirada (Rafael Negrón) (3:58)
    Up-tempo number driven by strong brass sections, typical of El Gran Combo’s dancefloor energy.
  4. Cenizas (Rafael Negrón) (4:46)
    A heartfelt lyrical theme, showcasing the band’s ability to blend romance with classic salsa arrangements.
Video: El Gran Combo De Puerto Rico - Amame (with Belly Dancer)
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Aguacero (Raquel Velázquez) (4:13) Single
    Another radio single from the album, remembered for its catchy chorus and vibrant brass.
  2. Te Seguiré (Mario Díaz) (4:51) Romántica
    A romantic salsa ballad, softer in tone, appealing to fans of the salsa romántica movement.
  3. Brindis a la Vida (Raquel Velázquez) (4:58) Classic
    A celebratory track that became a fan favorite in concerts, embodying the joy and optimism of El Gran Combo.
  4. Todo Bien (Benjamín Muñiz) (4:16)
    Positive and upbeat closer for the LP, wrapping the record with the group’s signature energetic style.
Video: El Gran Combo De Puerto Rico - Aguacero
Album Front Cover Photo
Front cover of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico's 1989 album Ámame. The scene takes place in Central Park, New York City, with the skyline rising behind. The full band, dressed in matching blue suits with pastel shirts, gathers joyfully around a black grand piano played by Rafael Ithier. To the left, a striking Latina woman in a revealing white corset and sheer flowing robe with silver jewelry and white heels leans against the piano, exuding glamour and sensuality. The title Ámame is written across the top in bold red script.

The front cover of Ámame by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico presents a vivid outdoor portrait staged in New York City's Central Park. The entire orchestra is assembled in a relaxed semicircle around a glossy black grand piano, which is being played by their director Rafael Ithier. Behind them, the skyline rises with tall, modern buildings framed by trees in early bloom, mixing soft greens and hints of spring.

Each band member is dressed in coordinated blue suits with pastel-colored shirts, projecting both unity and charisma. Their expressions vary between smiles and laughter, giving the impression of a joyful, celebratory moment captured in music and camaraderie.

To the left of the piano stands a glamorous Latina woman in a dazzling, white, flowing outfit. Her attire consists of a revealing corset, sheer robe, and elegant jewelry that sparkles against her dark hair. She strikes a confident pose in white heels, embodying both sensuality and stage-like glamour, adding dramatic contrast to the otherwise formal gathering of musicians.

Above the scene, the album title Ámame bursts in bold red script, its handwritten style radiating passion, while the band’s name, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, dominates the top border in strong block lettering. The result is a cover that merges urban sophistication, natural beauty, musical tradition, and theatrical flair into one unforgettable salsa image.

Album Back Cover Photo
Back cover of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico's 1989 album Ámame. The red design frames a large photograph of the band gathered outdoors in Central Park around a grand piano with a glamorous Latina in white seated on it. Above and around the photo, detailed liner notes list all musicians, producers, arrangers, engineers, and contributors. The complete track listing for both Side A and Side B is printed with composers and lead singers clearly indicated. Logos, catalog information (COMBO Records RCSLP 2060), and contact details for the band and label are displayed at the bottom.

The back cover of Ámame is dominated by a bold red background, against which a large centered photograph repeats the Central Park scene of the band. All members stand smiling in coordinated blue suits, while the glamorous Latina in a revealing white outfit now sits confidently on top of the piano, posed with theatrical allure.

Surrounding the image, the full set of liner notes is neatly organized. At the top, the musicians are listed by name and instrument or role, followed by the arrangers, producers, engineers, and artwork credits. The clarity of the typography makes the information easy to reference for collectors and fans.

On the left and right panels, the complete track listing for Side A and Side B appears, each song credited with its composer and assigned vocalist. At the bottom, additional production acknowledgements, contact information for Combo Records, catalog details (RCSLP 2060, Series 898), and copyright statements anchor the design with functional precision.

Close-up of Record Label
Close-up of the Side 1 record label for El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico's 1989 album Ámame. The label is designed with bold vertical color bands in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and pink, with the COMBO Records logo in large stylized letters across the top. Text identifies the album title, Ámame, the band name, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, and catalog details RCSLP 2060, Series 898. Printed in black are the track titles for Side 1, along with composer and vocalist credits: Ámame, Otra Vez Enamorado, Tu Mirada, and Cenizas. Additional text includes 33 1/3 RPM, stereo, and production credit to Ralph Cartagena. Copyright © 1989 appears near the bottom edge.

This close-up shows the vibrant Combo Records label used on the 1989 LP Ámame. The label is divided into bold vertical color stripes—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and pink—making the design visually striking and easy to identify.

Across the top sits the playful COMBO logo in large, stylized letters. Below, the album title and band name, Ámame – El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, are printed prominently. The left side includes catalog and series information: RCSLP 2060, Series 898.

The right side contains format details (33 1/3 RPM, stereo) and credits the producer, Ralph Cartagena. The center lists all four tracks on Side 1, each accompanied by its composer and vocalist. At the bottom edge, copyright and phonographic rights symbols clearly state the year 1989, completing the functional yet colorful layout.

Index of EL GRAN COMBO DE PUERTO RICO Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

Band Description:

  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.

Discography Information:
EL GRAN COMBO - 20 Anos De Exitos 12" Vinyl LP
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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

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Updated EL GRAN COMBO - Amame album front cover vinyl LP album https://vinyl-records.nl
EL GRAN COMBO - Amame 12" Vinyl LP

El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico’s 1989 LP Ámame blends the fiery roots of salsa with the smooth touch of salsa romántica. Produced by Rafael Ithier and Ernesto Sánchez, it includes standout tracks like the title cut and Aguacero. Its iconic cover and polished brass sound secured the group’s lasting place in Latin music history.

EL GRAN COMBO - Latin Up! 12" Vinyl LP
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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).

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EL GRAN COMBO - Nuestra Musica 12" Vinyl LP
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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).

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EL GRAN COMBO - Romantico Y Sabroso 12" Vinyl LP
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COMBO Records RCSLP 2068 , 1988 , Colombia

Released in 1987, Romantico y Sabroso marked El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico’s graceful turn toward salsa romántica. With smoother rhythms and heartfelt lyrics, this landmark LP balances romantic warmth with rhythmic integrity, expanding the group’s reach across Latin America and beyond.

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EL GRAN COMBO - Y Su Pueblo 12" Vinyl LP
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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,

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