Frankie Ruiz

• Genre: Salsa
• Hometown: Patterson

About

Although he was born in New Jersey, it wasn't until Frankie Ruiz moved to Puerto Rico that he was reborn as one of the 20th century's great salsa stars. After stints with Orquesta La Solucion and the Tommy Olivencia orchestra, Ruiz became one of the most sought-after solo salsa singers. He was a champion of salsa romantica, and brought that sensual style of music to a new generation of fans who were drawn by his undeniable talents and slender good looks. Unfortunately, the tempestuous Ruiz also romanced drugs, booze and violence; he was jailed in Texas for three years after assaulting a flight attendant. His addictions eventually killed him, and he died in 1998 of liver failure. A true original and towering talent, Ruiz has been sorely missed.

- Sarah Bardeen