As the founder of the legendary Fania Records, Dominican-American bandleader and
nine-time Grammy winner Juan Azarías Pacheco Knipping (March 25, 1935), also
known as Johnny Pacheco, played a great role in popularizing Latin music
throughout the world. Born in Santiago de los Caballeros in the Dominican
Republic, Johnny Pacheco relocated to New York City at age 11 and learnt to play
several instruments such as the accordion, violin, and saxophone before majoring
in percussion at the Juilliard School. He made his debut in the late 50s as the
lead arranger and co-director of La Dub...