Eddie Palmieri, a world-renowned and Grammy-winning pianist, bandleader, and musician, passed away on August 6, 2025, at 88 years old. Fania Records broke the news of his passing to the public. As a musician with Puerto Rican roots, he was the first Latino to win a Grammy Award and went on to win seven more Grammys throughout his music career.
While not much has been revealed as the cause of death, Palmieri's daughter, Gabriela, told The New York Times that her father passed away after "an extended illness" in his own home.
Palmieri was an icon in the rumba and jazz world. He founded multiple jazz bands, including Harlem River Drive, La Perfecta, and La Perfecta II. Keep reading to know more about the late Latin jazz musician and composer.
How did Eddie Palmieri discover his love for music?
Eddie Palmieri's parents were Puerto Rican, and they later moved to the Bronx, New York, where Eddie and his brother were born and raised. At the time, music seemed to be the only way out of the ghetto, and Palmieri decided to pursue it at a young age.
He started taking up piano lessons, but when he was 13 years old, he decided to play the timbales in his uncle's orchestra, after having an intense desire to play the drums. Later on, Eddie went back to playing the piano.
He wrote on his website biography why he played the piano. He said:
"I'm a frustrated percussionist, so I take it out on the piano."
Eddie Palmieri won his first Grammy for his album The Sun of Latin Music in 1975. He has released almost 40 albums throughout his music career, and continued to perform during the pandemic via livestreams.
Eddie Palmieri's death was announced on his official social media platform
After Fania Records broke the news of Palmieri's passing, his social media team also took to Instagram to announce his passing to his fans. Eddie Palmieri's official Instagram account posted a photo of the late jazz musician and wrote:
"Eddie Palmieri, legendary pianist, composer, bandleader, and one of the most influential figures in Latin music history, passed away in his New Jersey residence on Aug 6, 2025, at the age of 88. He was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Iraida Palmieri, whom he lovingly called ‘Mi Luz Mayor,’ his constant companion and greatest source of strength."
It gave a swift peek into Palmieri's family life by saying:
"Palmieri was the younger brother of the late Charlie Palmieri, a pioneering Latin pianist who greatly influenced Eddie’s musical path. Together, the Palmieri brothers helped define the sound of Latin music in New York City and beyond, each leaving a distinct legacy."
They also described his type of music by writing:
"Known for his thunderous, percussive piano style and bold, genre-defying compositions, he was a fearless innovator who honored his Afro-Caribbean roots while pushing musical boundaries."
Some of Palmieri's achievements were also highlighted. The dedication continued:
"Palmieri was the recipient of ten Grammy Awards, the NEA Jazz Masters Award, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Latin Recording Academy, among countless other honors. But Eddie Palmieri’s legacy goes far beyond accolades. He was a mentor, a teacher, and a tireless advocate for Latin music and culture. He inspired generations of musicians and moved countless listeners with his artistry, conviction, and unmistakable sound."
The tribute for Palmieri was concluded with:
"Eddie will live on eternally in our hearts for all times sake, ashé…"
Eddie Palmieri was a legendary Latin jazz pianist and Grammy-winning innovator who passed away at 88 after an extended illness. He will continue to be celebrated for his bold compositions and Afro-Caribbean roots as his legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians.