Talented trumpet player Luis "Perico" Ortiz got involved in music while studying at Puerto Rican Conservatory, joining the local symphony orchestra at the age of 18. In 1970, the Latin jazz and salsa performer moved to New York, soon working along with Mongo Santamaria, Tito Puente, and Tito Rodríguez, among other artists. After releasing his first solo album in 1977, Luis "Perico" Ortiz formed his own orchestra, being awarded for Trumpetist of the Year at the 1978's New York Magazine awards and Best Salsa Performer at 1981's ACE awards. In 1993, after returning to his native country, he founded Luis Perico Ortiz Productions, working for well-known entertainment companies and for prominent musician and producer Quincy Jones. In 1996, RMM Records released his acclaimed Café Con Leche y Dos De Azúcar. ~ Drago Bonacich