Rafael Antonio Cortijo Verdejo, known as Cortijo, was born on December 11, 1928, in Puerto Rico. He began his career in 1942 as a bongo player with Conjunto Monterey and later joined Rafael Ithier's group on the Secco label in 1954. In 1955, Ismael Rivera joined Cortijo's orchestra, Cortijo y su Combo, which became known for their unique musical sound and frequent television appearances. Notable songs recorded with Rivera include "El Bombón de Elena" and "Quítate de la Vía Perico". The group disbanded in 1962 following Rivera's arrest. Cortijo later formed El Bonche, featuring his adopted niece Fe Cortijo and Marvin Santiago, who recorded the album ¡Ahí Na Má! / Put It There (1969). In 1974, Coco Records reunited former members of Cortijo y su Combo for a one-time concert and studio recording. Cortijo died on October 3, 1982, from pancreatic cancer in Santurce, Puerto Rico.
