Biography
Hector began playing with bands in New York like Kako and his All Stars. He later met and worked for two weeks with the great Dominican bandleader, Johnny Pacheco. Pacheco introduced Hector to a young, up-and-coming bandleader named Willie Colon. Willie was playing Latin jazz and boogaloo. The established musicians of the time considered Willie a kid with a bad sound. Pacheco was getting ready to have Colon record his first albumn for the Fania label. Willie who was looking for a lead singer liked Hector's clear voice, impeccable enunciation and stylistic abilities. In addition, Hector had an enormous talent for improvisation. That introduction led to a very successful musical union–one that was nearly instantaneous.
Pacheco created an image for Willie that was one of a bad boy, gangsterish, thug. The image caught on and was embraced by the public. In 1967 Hector and Willie recorded their first album for Fania, El Malo. Willie's band was young; mostly teenagers. They had a new sound and Hector in addition to being a great talent, was very charismatic. Audiences loved him. Hector was comical in his repartee with the audience and within his improvisations.
Colon gave Hector the option of keeping the musicians together. With a commitment from Jose Mangual Jr., a percussionist with the band, to keep the orchestra in tact, Hector launched his solo career. Willie Colon who dearly loved Hector despite his shortcomings would produce Hector's first album as a solo artist and many others. Their friendship and love never wavered.
Hector was introduced to drugs at a party. According to his own account there was a bowl of drugs on the table and he indulged along with others at the party. He became enamoured with the drugs (heroine) and was soon addicted. His drug abuse began seeping into his professional career. Hector began demonstrating irresponsible behavior. He would arrive to performances late. His adoring fans were happy so long as he arrived. They adored him and forgave him always. At his worst, he might not show at all. At other times, he might insult his band members or the audience.
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