New York, NY-   With a voice described by  The New York Times  as “a beneficent alarm, a positive shout,” Cuban powerhouse  José «Pepito» Gómez  is once again commanding the global stage — this time with  La Royal Orquesta  and the release of his breathtaking new album,  «Odara.»  After igniting European audiences this summer as the featured vocalist for  Juan de Marcos González’s Euro-Cuban All Stars , a supergroup led by the legendary founder of  Buena Vista Social Club  and  Afro-Cuban All Stars   Gómez returns to the US to premiere a project that bridges the golden eras of Cuban music with bold contemporary flair. “ Mr. Gómez is another order of performer, ” wrote  The New York Times’  Ben Ratliff, a sentiment echoed by critics and fans worldwide, who have long praised his  operatic range, thunderous energy,  and  heart-wrenching romanticism.

A Storied Voice for a Storied Music

Born in the town of Florida, Camagüey, Cuba, Gómez began his musical journey as a trumpet student and acoustic trio vocalist before becoming the lead singer for the legendary  Maravilla de Florida . His career skyrocketed in Havana, where he performed with elite ensembles like  Habana Ensemble  (formed by former members of  Irakere ) and  Los Que Son Son  under the mentorship of César “Pupy” Pedroso, co-founder of  Los Van Van .

In 2008, Gómez made New York City his home and became a pillar of its Afro-Caribbean music scene. He co-founded  Orquesta Akokán , whose debut album earned a  Grammy nomination in 2018 , and later launched  Palo de Yaya , a project that spotlighted the acoustic roots of Cuban music.

Throughout his storied career, Gómez has shared stages with icons like  Compay Segundo ,  Tito Puente ,  Arturo Sandoval , and  Cheo Feliciano , and has captivated audiences at major venues including  Lincoln Center ,  Carnegie Hall , and international festivals from Europe to the Americas.