Sammy Figueroa is a percussionist, bandleader, and Grammy nominated artist known for his extensive work in Latin jazz, jazz, and Afro Caribbean music. Over the course of his career, Figueroa has performed and recorded with artists including Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins, David Bowie, Mariah Carey, Chaka Khan, and Herbie Hancock, while also leading his own acclaimed ensembles.

This special performance pays tribute to Cal Tjader, the pioneering vibraphonist and bandleader whose recordings helped bring Latin jazz to a wider audience during the 1950s and 1960s. Known for combining Afro Cuban rhythms with cool jazz and West Coast jazz traditions, Tjader collaborated with artists including Mongo Santamaria, Willie Bobo, and Eddie Palmieri and remains a major influence within Latin jazz.

Featuring rhythm driven arrangements, improvisation, and music associated with Tjader’s celebrated recordings and musical legacy, this performance honors one of the defining figures in the history of Latin jazz.