Joe Cuba and his Orchestra –  Red, Hot and Cha Cha Cha

“Joe Cuba was a visionary leader. He knew what he wanted and knew how to get it. This kind of vision is demonstrated on his recordings. I recall on one occasion when, after remixing a tune with Joe in a studio with engineer Jon Fausty, he pulled two three-inch speakers from a bag and asked Jon to play the final mix through these miniature speakers. In amazement, Jon and this writer gaped at each other in wonder. “My fans listen to my music through portable radios,” Joe explained. “If the final mix sounds good through these tiny speakers then I know it’ll sound great at Orchard Beach.” I think Jon and I learned a valuable lesson that day. All of the Joe Cuba concepts are nicely displayed in this party album, “Red Hot and Cha Cha Cha”. Released by Mardi-Gras Records in 1959. The vocals are handled by a very young Cheo Feliciano, and by listening to this album one can envision a great career ahead for Cheo. And of course, Joe Cuba,” written by Bobby Marin.