Born Victor Guillermo Toro Vega, on July 26, 1933, in Guanica, Puerto Rico, Yomo Toro is noted for pioneering the use of the cuatro in salsa music. He began his musical interest at the age of six. His father played the cuatro and encouraged him to learn to play the instrument. By the time he was 15 years old he played at his school with three fellow students in a band called “La Bandita de la Escuela”.

He began his professional career playing for “Bury Caban y los 4 Ases”, along with Tito Lara. He also played with Jose Antonio Saleman, “El Trio Universitario de San Juan”, “Los Antares” and with Felipe Rodriguez.

He has recorded with Larry Harlow, Willie Colon and the Fania All-Stars. He has traveled repeatedly to Japan, Europe, and many other parts of the world, playing the cuatro, Puerto Rico’s national instrument.

He has done several recordings with his own group for Polygram Records. One of his biggest hits was “Funky Jibaro”. When you listen to any of his recordings, you quickly appreciate his mastery of the cuatro and the unique contribution it makes to salsa music, in the hands of such a talented artist. ~ Music of Puerto Rico