The release of Giovanni Hidalgo's new album in tribute to Tito Puente also came with an announcement of a tour. It's in honor of Puente's 100th birthday on April 20.

Hidalgo had a close bond with Puente, called El Rey del Timbal (The King of the Timbal) and one of the icons of salsa. Their friendship and musical collaborations grew stronger over the years. Together they did great projects, such as Hidalgo's timbal solo on Puente's song "New Arrival" in Fernando Trueba's documentary Calle 54. 

"When I was with Tito Puente at the Golden Latin Jazz Stars in 1996, I asked him: 'Dad, can I ask you a question?' The question was if he would give me the green light to do a tribute to him (...) but it's a tribute with your compositions and I choose the numbers (...) And he told me: 'Go ahead, do it,'" said Hidalgo, who considers Puente a father.

Thanks to that conversation, the artist began to work on the production of the album Tribute To The King, which includes songs written by Puente, who recorded more than 120 albums. 

On Tribute To The King, Hidalgo showcases different Afro-Caribbean rhythms with the songs: "4 Beat Cha Cha Cha," "Cuyi," "Mambo Zooka," "Traigo el Coco Seco," "Aguanile," "Caonao," "Rezo a Yemayá," "Yimbaraco," "Havana After Dark," and "O Che Ché".

On April 22, during the week celebrating Puente's 100th birthday, at 8:30 p.m. at the Tito Puente Amphitheater, Hidalgo will present the album live.

The album is available on digital platforms. Tickets for the concert are on sale through www.prticket.com.