John Benitez, a name synonymous with masterful bass playing across both acoustic and electric realms, is a Grammy Award-winning musician whose journey began in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. His early exposure to gospel music in church at the age of thirteen laid the foundation for a remarkable career. Even in his youth, Benitez’s exceptional talent was evident, leading him to pursue formal music education at the Escuela Libre de Musica, the University of Puerto Rico, and later, the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music under the tutelage of renowned bassist Federico Silva. By nineteen, John Benitez had already established himself as the most sought-after bassist in the vibrant jazz and Latin music scenes of San Juan. During this period, he collaborated with a diverse array of celebrated artists, including Chick Corea, Lucecita Benitez, Batacumbele, Lalo Rodriguez, Cuco Peña, Roberto Roena, and Justo Betancourt, showcasing his versatility and broad musical appeal.
In his early twenties, John Benitez expanded his horizons, touring with Batacumbele to Colombia, South America. This experience further enriched his musical palette as he continued to perform and study. His reputation for excellence preceded him, and he found himself in high demand, sharing the stage with prominent figures like Joe Madrid and frequently accompanying international touring artists such as the acclaimed trumpeter “Chocolate” Armenteros.
In 1993, a pivotal moment arrived when John Benitez moved to New York City. There, he enrolled at the City College of New York, where he had the invaluable opportunity to study with the legendary acoustic bassist Ron Carter. He later refined his electric bass skills under the guidance of contra bass guitarist Anthony Jackson. However, Benitez’s education extended far beyond the classroom. The bandstand became his ultimate learning environment, where he honed his craft alongside some of the most distinguished jazz and Latin musicians of our time. This impressive roster includes names like Wynton Marsalis, Tito Puente, Michele Camilo, Dave Valentin, Eddie Palmieri, Bobby Watson, David Sanchez, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Roy Hargrove, Antonio Hart, Danilo Perez, Kenny Kirkland, Will Calhoun, Vinny Valentino, Chucho Valdez, Don Pullen, Dave Samuels, and Mongo Santamaria – a testament to his exceptional talent and respected standing within the music community.
John Benitez’s discography is as impressive as his performance history. He contributed to Roy Hargrove’s Crisol band album, “Habana,” which secured a Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Performance in 1997. He also played on David Sanchez’s Grammy-nominated album, “Obsesion,” and collaborated on recordings with Tito Puente, Hilton Ruiz, Antonio Hart, the Tropi-Jazz All Stars, the Mingus Big Band, the Caribbean Jazz Project, and Eddie Palmieri. His expertise has also been captured in instructional videos alongside master percussionists Giovanni Hildalgo and Cuban drummer Ignacio Berroa. Furthermore, Benitez has made television appearances on national programs such as Good Morning America, The Today Show, and BET On Jazz, bringing his music to a wider audience.
As both a sideman and a featured soloist, John Benitez has graced the stages of major jazz festivals and prestigious venues worldwide. His international performances span across Turkey, Jordan (where he performed for the royal family), South America, Canada, Norway, Finland, and numerous countries throughout Europe. Recognizing his significant contribution to American music, the United States Information Agency and the Kennedy Center selected John Benitez to represent the United States as a Jazz Ambassador on a tour of South America, further solidifying his global impact.
John Benitez’s profound musical journey culminated in his debut album as a leader, “Descarga in New York,” released in August 2001 under Khaeon World Music. This landmark recording showcased his extraordinary talents not only as a bassist—proficient in both acoustic and electric styles—but also as a composer, arranger, and producer. Alongside his Trio, featuring the gifted pianist/composer Luis Perdomo and powerhouse drummer Dafnis Preito, and with special guests percussionist Richie Flores and tenor saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, Benitez crafted a powerful musical statement. His versatility across jazz idioms is undeniable, yet he particularly shines in his interpretations of the rhythms and styles of his native Afro-Caribbean region and the broader Pan-American music tradition. As Benitez himself articulates, “For me it’s all the same, one great dance music, all the Caribbean, South America and New Orleans are but an extension of African music, music with that special bounce. That’s what I like the most.”
John Benitez stands as an exemplary figure – a true musician, educator, artist, and gentleman. His dedication to his craft, coupled with his spiritual approach to music and life, makes him a respected and admired figure in the global music community.
