Sammy Figueroa and His Latin Jazz Explosion to Wrap Centenary Stage's January Jazz Fest, 1/25

Wrapping up Centenary Stage Company's annual January Jazz Fest is the legendary Sammy Figueroa and his Latin Jazz Explosion on Saturday, January 25th at 8 p.m. Sammy Figueroa has long been regarded as one of the world's great musicians. Well-known for his versatility and professionalism, he is one of the few percussionists equally comfortable in a multitude of styles, from R & B to rock and pop to bebop, Latin to Brazilian, and New Age.

Sammy Figueroa was born in the Bronx, New York, the son of the well-known romantic singer Charlie Figueroa. His first professional experience came at the age of 18, while attending the University of Puerto Rico, with the band of bassist Bobby Valentin. During this time he co-founded the innovative Brazilian/Latin group Raices, which broke ground for many of today's fusion bands. Since then Sammy has played with a multitude of distinguished Jazz and Latin jazz artists including Sonny Rollins, Dave Sanborn, Quincy Jones, George Benson, Chet Baker, Stanley Clarke, Grover Washington, Jr., Al Jarreau, Lena Horne, Ruben Blades, Eddie Palmieri, and Michel Camillo, who wrote the song "And Sammy Walked In" in his honor.

In 2001 Sammy relocated to South Florida where he discovered a rich treasure trove of Latin Jazz virtuosos and by the next year, Sammy Figueroa and his Latin Jazz Explosion made their debut at the Hollywood Jazz Festival. Sammy and his band have been unstoppable and they are now one of the most exciting groups in Latin jazz today.

When Sammy plays percussion he takes the listener on a journey, amazing audiences with both his flamboyant technique and his subtle nuance and phrasing. Drummer's World said, "What can you say? Sammy is the Cat! He has long been regarded as one of the premier musicians in the world." Both of his first two albums have been honored with Grammy Nominations and his devoted following is rapidly growing. Sammy's famed sense of humor, ebullient personality and open-heartedness, long famous within the music industry, have further empowered him in his connection with musicians and audiences alike.

Sammy Figueroa tickets are $22.50 for adults and $15 for children under 12, when purchased in advance. Ticket prices increase $5 when purchased at the door

Tickets may be purchased online at www.centenarystageco.org, at the CSC Box Office in The Lackland Center at 715 Grand Ave in Hackettstown, or by calling 908-979-0900. The Box Office is open Monday through Friday 1-5 p.m., and 2 hours prior to performance times. CSC also operates a second Box Office during the season at 217 Main Street in Hackettstown open Monday through Friday 3-6 p.m.

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