Mambo Kings: Sharing Life Stories and Culture Through Latin Music

For nearly three decades, the Mambo Kings have brought the heart and soul of Latin music to audiences across the United States. With their infectious rhythms, captivating melodies, and powerful cultural storytelling, this group of talented musicians continues to showcase the beauty of Latin music in unique and unforgettable ways.

“Our music has such a groove to it,” said band member Hector Viavattine. “People of all ages get up to dance—and sometimes, you’ll even see them dancing in the aisles!” And that’s exactly the spirit the Mambo Kings have been delivering since their formation in 1996, when Richard Delaney, who was playing in a salsa band at the time, got an unexpected opportunity that would shape the group’s future.

Delaney recalls being approached by Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra’s Jeff Tyzik with an intriguing proposition. “He asked if I’d ever written anything for orchestra, and I lied and said yes,” Delaney admitted, laughing. “I scrambled to put together two or three tunes we still play with orchestras today.” What started as a chance encounter has turned into a vibrant, ongoing collaboration with symphony orchestras nationwide.

The Mambo Kings are more than just a band—they are a testament to the rich cultural diversity within Latin music. Their sound blends influences from their childhood and heritage, drawing from the African, Puerto Rican, and Spanish roots of traditional Latin music, while also incorporating flavors from Peru and Colombia. The result? A musical tapestry that pays homage to history while pushing creative boundaries.

“A lot of the tunes we play are older songs that we’ve revamped and added our own little flavor to,” said band member Hector Diaz. It’s this innovation and respect for tradition that has earned the Mambo Kings a loyal following, and has set them apart as the only Latin band in their region to have toured extensively across the United States.

“We’ve achieved a lot,” said Freddy Colon. “If we were to end this tomorrow—which we’re not, guys, so don’t get any ideas—I’d be very happy. But there’s still so much more to do.”

Indeed, the Mambo Kings’ adventure is far from over. Fans can catch them live at the Vault Cafe and Cabaret in Rochester on October 12th, followed by a performance with the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra in Pennsylvania later that month.

As they continue to perform, the Mambo Kings remain dedicated to bringing Latin music to new audiences and sharing the stories and cultural heritage that define their sound.

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