April 20 - Tito Puente; Lionel Hampton (The Musical Birthday Series)

Coincidentally today is the birthday of two charismatic percussionists, Latin bandleader Tito Puente (20 April 1923 – 31 May 2000), and jazz vibraphonist Lionel Hampton (20 April 1908 – 31 August 2002). Here are two limericks to celebrate.

Lionized

For decades the critical scribes

Have looked for a jargon that jibes

With the thrill that they get

When a session or set

Has Lionel Hampton on vibes.

Tito Too 

Percussionist Tito Puente

Had a band that was muy caliente.

His big Latin combo

Was known for the mambo

And cha cha especialmente.