Eddie Palmieri’s landmark 1971 album Harlem River Drive will be the focus of the second episode of The Note—a new digital television series from Red Bull Music Academy that uncovers and examines the vital creative crossroads and engrossing personal journeys that have and continue to shape our sonic landscape in profound ways.

Inspired by the early ’70s activism of the Black Panthers and the Young Lords, Latin music pioneer Eddie Palmieri produced one of the most daring albums of his already storied career: Harlem River Drive, a politically-charged masterpiece. In an era marked by a feeling of social unrest and economic distress, the album—marrying Latin, soul, funk and jazz with socially-conscious tales of the inner city—is as relevant today as it was 45 years ago.
Palmieri recently brought the album to life during a free live performance in Harlem, as part of the acclaimed Red Bull Music Academy Festival New York.
www.redbullcontentpool.com/redbullmusicacademy.