Joseph Portes

Having originated in the Dominican Republic, Joseph Portes—known professionally as El Gato del Merengue (Merengue's Cat)—took up vocal instruction once his relatives had relocated to NYC. An early fascination with tropical sounds fueled his ambition to emerge as a leading Latin vocalist, which led the developing performer to perform with Primitivo Santos' orchestra ahead of launching a solo career. The tracks "Agua de Beber," "Me Siento Prendío," and his merengue rendition of Juan Gabriel's "No Me Vuelvo A Enamorar" allowed Joseph Portes to fulfill that central ambition. In 1998, his sustained effort and skill secured the ACE's Outstanding Local Artist Award.