Ismael Rivera

Ismael Rivera, nicknamed 'Maelo' and 'El Sonero Mayor', was a Puerto Rican singer and composer from Santurce, San Juan. He is a foundational figure in salsa, widely credited as one of the first great soneros, singers who deliver fast and often improvised verses within the music. His vocal improvisation and emotional intensity helped lift Puerto Rican salsa to international prominence, particularly through his long partnership with bandleader Rafael Cortijo.