Conga dynamo Henry Brun, nicknamed “Mr. Ritmo” by his fans, lives by the authenticity, dynamics and “cadencia” of the music he plays. Born in the Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, Henry started playing congas at age seven. His family returned to Puerto Rico, and by the time he was eleven, he was playing professionally. While listening to and being influenced by Latin music pioneers such as Tito Puente, Patato, Buyú, Mongo and Candido, Henry developed his own unique style and technique on bongos and timbales.
Henry traveled around the world performing with the U.S. Air Force’s international band, “Tops in Blue”. This allowed him to expand his knowledge of global rhythms as well as work with legends such as Maynard Ferguson, Bob Hope, Lucille Ball, and several others
In 1989, Henry created The Latin Playerz, an ensemble that incorporates a variety of Latin styles with Rhythm and Blues, Swing, and straight ahead Jazz. They’ve become a touring force, popular in the United States and around the world.
When not performing with his ensemble, Henry can often be found presenting educational workshops or touring with international acts such as Arturo Sandoval, Justo Almario, Charo, Los Lobos, Little Joe y La Familia, Los Texmaniacs & mas. Henry’s vivacious performances infect the audience with the desire to join in on the fun during his shows.
For more than ten years Henry has been hosting the ever popular Latin Jazz Brunch on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. C.S.T. on KRTU 91.7 FM OR listen anytime at www.krtu.org