Joe Bataan and Quetzal

Joe Bataan, born Peter Nitollano in Spanish Harlem, is a pioneer of New York Latin soul, known for hits like "Gypsy Woman," "Salsoul," and "Rap-O, Clap-O." His fusion of Latin rhythms with soul and funk influenced early disco. Self-taught, he began with doo-wop, formed his band in 1965, and released classics on Fania Records. Despite missing mainstream fame, his works are cult favorites, and he brought rap to Europe with "Rap-O, Clap-O." Bataan's music reflects his gritty, realistic lyricism and visionary genre-blending.