Rafael Ithier: A Cultural Icon of Puerto Rican Music

Rafael Ithier, the esteemed bandleader of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, passed away on December 6, 2025, in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, at the age of 99. His death was confirmed by Víctor Rivera, a family lawyer, to the San Juan radio station WKAQ. Ithier was a pivotal figure in the salsa music scene, leading El Gran Combo since its formation in 1962. The orchestra has enjoyed remarkable longevity, akin to iconic bands like the Beach Boys and the Rolling Stones, maintaining its influence over six decades.

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Ithier's contributions extended beyond music; he was a cultural ambassador for Puerto Rico, helping to elevate the island's identity through its rhythms. Mayor Marlese Sifre of Ponce remarked, “Puerto Rico has lost a giant, a man whose life was dedicated to elevating our identity through the art and rhythm that distinguishes us to the world.” His work inspired a new generation of artists, including global superstar Bad Bunny, who expressed his emotional tribute during a concert in Costa Rica shortly after Ithier's passing.

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Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, highlighted the profound connection between El Gran Combo and Puerto Rican culture. He stated, “El Gran Combo is not just an orchestra, it’s part of the soul and culture of the people. El Gran Combo is Puerto Rico.” His recent album, “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” features a track that samples El Gran Combo’s 1975 hit “Un Verano en Nueva York,” showcasing the orchestra's lasting influence on contemporary music.

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In the wake of Ithier's death, numerous tributes poured in from various sectors of society, emphasizing his role in shaping Puerto Rican music and culture. The outpouring of grief and celebration of his life reflects the deep impact he had on both the local and global music scenes.

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While the majority of responses have been celebratory, some critics argue that the commercialization of salsa music has overshadowed its traditional roots. They contend that while artists like Bad Bunny bring salsa to new audiences, they may also dilute its cultural significance.

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• “Puerto Rico has lost a giant, a man whose life was dedicated to elevating our identity through the art and rhythm that distinguishes us to the world,” — Marlese Sifre, Mayor of Ponce

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• “El Gran Combo is not just an orchestra, it’s part of the soul and culture of the people,” — Bad Bunny

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Rafael Ithier's legacy as a musician and cultural ambassador will continue to resonate within Puerto Rico and beyond. His leadership of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico not only shaped the salsa genre but also fostered a sense of pride and identity among Puerto Ricans, ensuring that his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.

New York Times