Bataan was born and raised in Spanish Harlem, NYC in 1942 to an African-American mother and Filipino father. By merging Latin music with R&B tunes in the late 60’s, Joe Bataan became known as the first recording artist to create authentic Latin Soul music. He was signed to legendary NYC label Fania records, together with Ray Barretto, Bobby Valentino, Ruben Blades, Hector Lavoe and many others. Joe Bataan co-founded Salsoul Records, one of the biggest and most influential disco record labels of all time. The label’s name was conceived by Joe Bataan, who recorded some of the earliest sessions for the label (predating the label’s formation). Bataan’s big hit in 1979 « Rap-O Clap-O», was the first Rap Disco hit, accredited as the first Rap song in Europe. In 2005, Bataan broke his long hiatus with the release of « Call My Name”. No recording artist has more impeccable street credentials than Joe Bataan - King of Latin Soul.

For this special performance at Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival, Joe will be joined by "The Malasimbo Orchestra".