Carlos Oliva
Carlos Oliva, a renowned musician, and bandleader, was born on February 15th in Sancti Spiritus, one of Cuba’s most beautiful cities. His passion for music was evident from a young age as he sang and played percussion instruments along with the radio. In August 1961, Carlos left Cuba and arrived in Miami via Colombia, where he participated in the Pedro Pan Program as a counselor at a children’s camp.
Carlos’s interest in music led him to perform at clubs and events, establishing himself as a skilled percussionist and vocalist. He later traveled to New York with acclaimed Cuban band leader and composer Julio Gutierrez, gaining valuable experience before eventually forming his own trio called “LOS SOBRINOS DEL JUEZ” (The Judge’s Nephews). The band grew in members and became a unique unit of nine talented musicians who were passionate about the music they played.
Carlos Oliva and LSDJ’s fame grew as they created a new intercultural sound, blending Cuban music, salsa, afro beats, samba, jazz, and rock. This fusion of rhythmic flavors became known as “The Miami Sound,” earning Miami recognition for its Latin music scene, as recognized by Time Magazine, which credits Carlos as the pioneer of this popular musical trend.
The group took their distinctive sound beyond Miami, performing in Las Vegas and embarking on tours across the United States, Latin America, and Europe. Carlos also ventured into producing and directing other musical groups, including Miami Sound Machine, among many others. He recorded his own compositions and wrote original material for international artists, as well as theme songs for television shows such as “Cristina” and “Ocurrio Asi,” both of which won prestigious BMI Latin TV Theme Awards. Carlos also composed music for shows like “La Feria de la Alegria” and “Un Nuevo Dia,” in addition to over one hundred radio and television commercials. His talent and creativity earned him an Emmy Award for the music of a promotional Univision campaign.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Carlos Oliva is deeply involved in his community. He has been a proud member of The Kiwanis Club of Little Havana since January 1978 and is a co-founder of the famous Calle Ocho Festival and Carnaval Miami. He hosted the television shows “THE MIAMI SOUND” and later “SUNSHINE RHYTHMS” on WPBT, Channel 2. Carlos has received numerous awards and proclamations from the City of Hialeah, the City of Miami Beach, the City of Hialeah Gardens, the City of Miami, Miami-Dade County, and even received the Key to the City of Miami. He was honored with a star on the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame, and a street was named Carlos Oliva Way in Hialeah/Miami Lakes.
Carlos Oliva and The Judge’s Nephews continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their infectious joy and memorable performances. They have achieved great success in Latin America, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Panama, and especially in Brazil, where their album “Caribbean Dance” earned a Gold Record Award for selling over 250,000 copies. Their live performances have won the hearts and feet of audiences across the globe.
His latest release, “NADA COMO MIAMI,” written in collaboration with renowned composer Jorge Luis Piloto, is a heartfelt expression of love and gratitude to the vibrant city of Miami, a place that has embraced immigrants in their pursuit of prosperity and freedom.
Carlos Oliva’s contributions to the music industry and his dedication to his community make him a respected and beloved figure in Miami and beyond. His legacy as a talented musician and influential bandleader continues to inspire generations of artists and music lovers.
