Eddie Torres, widely known as the “Mambo King,” is a legendary figure in the world of salsa dancing, particularly for his role in pioneering and popularizing Salsa On2, also known as New York Style Salsa. Born and raised in New York City, Torres has played an instrumental role in shaping the salsa scene for over four decades, influencing countless dancers, instructors, and choreographers around the world.

The Birth of Salsa On2

Eddie Torres developed the Salsa On2 timing, which emphasizes dancing to the second beat of the music, rather than the first, as is typical in other salsa styles. This timing syncs the dancer’s movements with the clave rhythm, which is central to mambo and salsa music. His precise, smooth, and rhythmic style gave salsa a new level of sophistication, and it is now one of the most popular salsa styles worldwide, especially in New York, Puerto Rico, and across Latin America.

Torres’ teaching method helped structure how salsa is taught today. He introduced an eight-count system for breaking down salsa footwork, making the dance more accessible to students around the world. His teaching approach has set the standard for many salsa instructors globally.

Career and Influence

Eddie Torres has worked with many iconic figures in Latin music, including the legendary Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, and Eddie Palmieri. His close collaboration with Tito Puente, in particular, helped bring mambo and salsa dancing to a broader audience. Torres and his dance company performed alongside Puente at numerous high-profile events, including the Apollo Theater and the Lincoln Center, solidifying their status as key cultural contributors to New York’s vibrant Latin music scene.

Beyond his performances, Eddie Torres is an influential teacher and choreographer. He has trained some of the biggest names in salsa, including Adolfo Indacochea and Franklin Diaz. Torres’ dance school in New York continues to be a hub for aspiring dancers, and he is frequently invited to salsa congresses and festivals around the world to share his expertise.

The Legacy of the Mambo King

Eddie Torres’ contributions to salsa go far beyond his innovative dance style. He has played a crucial role in preserving the cultural roots of salsa and mambo, ensuring that future generations understand and respect the music’s Afro-Caribbean heritage. His dedication to teaching and passing on his knowledge has made him a beloved figure in the global salsa community.

Today, Torres remains an active and inspirational figure, performing and teaching at salsa events across the globe. His lasting influence on the world of salsa dancing, especially Salsa On2, has earned him the title of “The Mambo King,” a title that reflects both his mastery and his pivotal role in the evolution of salsa dancing.

Adolfo Indacochea, originally from Peru, is one of the most respected figures in the world of salsa. Known for his impeccable technique and charismatic stage presence, Adolfo has carved out a niche in the world of Salsa On2, also known as New York Style Salsa. As the founder and director of the Latin Soul Dancers, Adolfo has inspired dancers worldwide through his performances, workshops, and dedication to preserving and innovating salsa.

A Journey from Peru to the World Stage

Adolfo began his dance journey in his home country of Peru, but it was in New York City, the birthplace of Salsa On2, where he truly refined his craft. Under the mentorship of the legendary Eddie Torres, also known as the “Mambo King,” Adolfo mastered the art of dancing salsa with musicality, precision, and flair. His time with Eddie Torres laid the foundation for what would become a flourishing career in salsa dancing and instruction.

The Latin Soul Dancers

In 2007, Adolfo founded the Latin Soul Dancers, a dance company dedicated to spreading the passion and technique of Salsa On2. Based in New York, the company has become synonymous with excellence in salsa. The dancers are known for their clean, sharp movements, complex footwork, and electrifying performances that fuse traditional mambo with contemporary influences.

The Latin Soul Dancers have performed at some of the most prestigious salsa events worldwide, including the New York International Salsa Congress, the Puerto Rico Salsa Congress, and festivals across Europe and Latin America. Adolfo’s choreography, often set to classic mambo and salsa tunes, emphasizes musicality and connection with the audience, making each performance a memorable experience.

Global Influence and Teaching

Adolfo Indacochea is not only an exceptional performer but also a highly sought-after instructor. His workshops, which focus on technical precision, body movement, and partner work, have helped elevate countless dancers to professional levels. He frequently travels to teach at salsa festivals and congresses around the world, where his unique teaching style and passion for dance have inspired a new generation of salsa dancers.

Through his work with the Latin Soul Dancers and as a solo instructor, Adolfo continues to contribute to the evolution of salsa. He is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in the promotion and teaching of Salsa On2 internationally.

Legacy and Ongoing Impact

With over a decade of experience at the highest levels of salsa performance, Adolfo Indacochea and the Latin Soul Dancers continue to shape the future of salsa dancing. Their influence extends beyond performances, as they continue to inspire dancers worldwide through workshops, performances, and training.

Adolfo’s dedication to the art of salsa, combined with his dynamic teaching and choreography, ensures that his legacy will leave an indelible mark on the global salsa community for years to come.