Miguelito Valdes’ vocal innovations made him one the most beloved Latin musicians over more than 50 years of performing. After beginning singing in 1927 in a few amateur groups, he decided to make music his profession while in Panama in the early ’30s. Valdes was the voice of the Casino de la Playa Orchestra in June 1937. It was one of Cuba’s most popular orchestras. In April 1940, he left Cuba and joined the Xavier Cugat group at the Waldorf Astoria hotel. He was able to start his solo career in 1942 thanks to the fame he gained from this spot. He was a recording artist for many labels and appeared in 12 film cameo roles. He retired in semi-retirement at the age of 55. In 1963, he returned to television hosting a show for ten more years. Miguelito Valdes, who died in 1978 from a heart attack, was killed on the stage at Bogota, Columbia. Allmusic
