Tribute to Freddy Rodriguez Sr and “Papi” Ray Pacheco

The Bar at Plaza 38 and KUVO JAZZ are hosting a tribute to sax man Freddy Rodriguez Sr and percussionist “Papi” Ray Pacheco on Sunday, May 23.

3pm—Freddy Rodriguez Jr and the Jazz Connection, introduced by Carlos Lando

5pm—The Latin Jazz All-Stars featuring members of Mistura Fina, Ritmo Jazz Latino, Conjunto Colores and Freddy Rodriguez Jr, introduced by Janine Santana

7pm—Conjunto Colores, introduced by Arturo Gómez

The lineup includes surprise guests sitting in throughout the performances.

The event will include a ceremony honoring Freddy Rodriguez Sr and “Papi” Ray Pacheco and will present their families a plaque from The Bar at Plaza 38 and KUVO JAZZ.

Freddy Rodriguez Sr – passed away March 20, 2020: Freddy Sr was a regular performer on the city’s most respected jazz stages, starting during the golden era of the Five Points neighborhood at the Rossonian Hotel, and continuing with LoDo institution El Chapultepec, downtown’s Dazzle Jazz, and the annual Jazz in the Park series at City Park. He and his Jazz Connection performed at KUVO’s Phyllis A. Greer Studio many times.

“Papi” Ray Pacheco – passed away April 3, 2021: Latin jazz percussionist Ray played many times with several different bands at KUVO’s Phyllis A. Greer Performance Studio. In more recent times, he performed with Neil Bridge 7+. He was one of the most beloved musicians of Denver, not only as a musician but as the kind, caring gentleman of the highest caliber that he was.

Pictures: (l-r) Freddy Rodriguez Sr and Papi Ray Pacheco