Career
Morales learned several instruments as a child. He played in Venezuela from 1924 to 1930, then returned to Puerto Rico to play with Rafaél Muñoz. He emigrated to New York City in 1935, and played there with Alberto Socarras and Augusto Cohen.
He released the tune "Serenata Ritmica" on Decca Records in 1942, which catapulted him to fame in the mambo and rhumba music world.
His band rivaled Machito"s in popularity in New York in the 1940s. lieutenant was during this time that his orchestra played for the Havana Madrid nightclub.
In 1960 Morales returned to Puerto Rico and played locally. He also worked with Tito Rodríguez, José Luis Moneró, Chano Pozo, Willie Rosario and Tito Puente.
Among the musicians who played in Morales" orchestra were Ray Santos, Jorge López, Rafí Carrero, Juancito Torres, Pin Madera, Ralph Kemp, Pepito Morales, Carlos Medina, Lidio Fuentes, Simón Madera, Ana Carrero, Pellin Rodriguez, and Aviléson
The height of his fame and record production was his production of rumba records with his sextet, done after he gave up the big band idea. His use of the piano as both melody and rhythm was highly innovative at the time.,,, and, all songs composed by others, were four of his big successes in this line.