Ponce pays tribute to a legend! in honor of José Cheo Feliciano

The "Señorial City" of Ponce dresses up in style and clave to honor one of its most illustrious and beloved sons in the history of Latin music. Mural inauguration on Friday, July 3 at 6:00 PM.

The «Señorial City» of Ponce dresses up in style and clave to honor one of its most illustrious and beloved sons in the history of Latin music: José «Cheo» Feliciano. The inauguration of the mural in his honor took place on Friday, July 3 at 6:00 PM in the historic heart of the city.

José Luis Feliciano Vega, known worldwide as Cheo Feliciano, was born in Ponce on July 3, 1935. His voice, filled with feeling and impeccable technique, made him one of the most beloved and respected salsa singers of all time.

Cheo began his career in New York, where he joined Joe Cuba's orchestra in the 1960s. His interpretation of «El Ratón» became an instant boogaloo classic. Later, his work with Tito Puente's Conjunto and his recordings for the Fania label consolidated him as an indispensable figure of salsa.

The mural, created by renowned Ponce artist Carlos «Coqui» Rivera, captures the essence of Cheo: his natural elegance, his characteristic smile and his deep connection with Afro-Caribbean music. The work occupies a 15-meter wall in the La Playa neighborhood, where the singer spent part of his childhood.

The tribute was attended by family members, friends and colleagues of the artist, as well as hundreds of fans who traveled from different parts of Puerto Rico and the diaspora to be part of this historic moment. Cheo Feliciano, who passed away in 2014, lives forever in his music and now also on the walls of his hometown.