An Evening with John Radanovich

Mambo rhythms, midcentury cinema and the cultural exchanges connecting Cuba, Mexico and the United States come into focus during a talk with author John Radanovich. The free event takes place Wednesday, September 9 at Books & Books in Coral Gables, marking the release of his biography Pérez Prado: King of the Mambo.

The book traces Prado’s journey from Cuba to Mexico City and Los Angeles, where his recordings, film appearances and flamboyant public persona helped bring mambo to international audiences. Radanovich also examines Prado’s influence on early R&B, rock ’n’ roll and later generations of popular music, along with the story behind hits such as “Mambo No. 5.”

Radanovich previously wrote Wildman of Rhythm: The Life and Music of Benny Moré and has covered jazz, Cuban music and world music for publications including DownBeat and the New Orleans Times-Picayune. Admission is free with RSVP, though seating is not guaranteed. Books will be available for purchase at the event.