Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Jose Espinosa of Ozomatli dead after battle with cancer

José Espinosa, a multi-talented Jazz and Latin inspired musician and a founding member of the musical group Ozomatli, passed away Wednesday January 5, 2011 after a long fight against cancer. Espinosa is survived by a loving family including his wife and young children.

Espinosa often shared his talent with fans in Pasadena performing regularly at Wine Bar and Restaurant redwhite+bluezz and events including Pasadena Jazz Fest, Pasadena Wine Festival, The Bridge Party and Make Music Pasadena among many others.

Though a local favorite, Espinosa has fans worldwide who appreciate his high energy and moving performances.. An acclaimed saxophonist, Espinosa has also worked with such esteemed artists as Salvador Santana and the Black Eyed Peas as well as on numerous feature films including Havana Nights and On Any Given Sunday.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of José Espinosa...a great musician and person,” said André C. Vener, one of the owners of redwhite+bluezz and founder of event marketing and production company Pasadena Entertainment. “I have had the honor of working with José both at the restaurant and at many events throughout the years. He was a rare talent, embraced by fans and peers who respected his excellent percussion work and ability to keep the beat flowing smoothly through salsa, Latin jazz and other styles. José will be greatly missed though he will live on forever through his music and his contributions to the industry.”

Among his many accomplishments, Espinosa created a unique sound rooted deep in Latin folk and lyrics in both Spanish and English. Espinosa and his former band Ozomatli were also highly regarded for using its popularity to lend a voice to people of struggle. During the 2000 Democratic Convention, Ozomatli staged a large protest concert outside of the event. Ozomatli released their self-titled debut in 1998 followed by numerous others, world tours and performances at the biggest music festivals across the United States.

Espinosa was born in Havana, Cuba.

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