Bronx, NY—-Lehman Center for the Performing Arts is proud to present TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY PACHECO on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 8 PM – a night of rhythm, legacy, and celebration honoring the music that defined an era. Paying tribute to legendary flutist and prolific arranger, Pacheco’s innovative compositions and dynamic performances brought Afro-Caribbean rhythms to audiences around the world, leaving an enduring mark on generations of musicians worldwide.
This concert brings the sound of salsa to life, celebrating the spirit and lasting influence of Johnny Pacheco, whose artistry helped shape latin music into the vibrant global language it is today.
Johnny Pacheco was one of the most influential figures in Latin music history—a visionary bandleader, composer, producer, and co-founder of Fania Records, the label that helped propel salsa from New York to the world. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Pacheco earned ten Gold records, nine Grammy nominations, and international acclaim as the creative force behind the legendary Fania All-Stars, collaborating with artists Celia Cruz, Willie Colón, Héctor Lavoe, Rubén Blades, and Cheo Feliciano.
A prolific composer with more than 150 songs to his credit, Pacheco helped defined the genre with enduring classics including “Quítate Tú Pa’ Poneme Yo,” “Acuyuyé,” “El Rey de la Puntualidad,” “La Dicha Mía,” and “Mi Gente,” while also producing landmark recordings such as Celia Cruz’s “Quimbara.” Born in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, and raised in New York City, Pacheco was a master musician and pioneering producer whose influence extended across music, film, and international stages. His many honors include induction into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame, the NARAS Governor’s Award, and the Presidential Medal of Honor from the Dominican Republic, cementing his legacy as the architect of a sound that continues to move audiences and unite cultures worldwide.
The concert will feature all-star musicians performing some of his most iconic compositions, brought to life by Fania Legends Bobby Valentín, extraordinary bassist and arranger; Nicky Marrero, the iconic timbalero of the Fania All-Stars; Alfredo de la Fe, virtuoso violinist; Jimmy Bosch, celebrated trombonist; and Eddie Montalvo, influential conguero.The evening also showcases acclaimed vocalists, Hermán Olivera, widely known as “El Sonero Mayor,” with Ray Viera, Jorge Maldonado, ANOVA.
