"My Latin Heart" is Roger Glenn's tribute to his jazz roots and Latin influences, featuring original works inspired by a lifetime in music.

'My Latin Heart' originates from Roger Glenn's earliest inspirations, growing up in a jazz family in New York City with his father, jazz legend Tyree Glenn, his mother Gloria, and older brother Tyree Glenn Jr. Surrounded by a rich mix of cultures, Roger was deeply influenced by the diversity and vibrancy of the era. These all-original compositions reflect his life's journey and the global musical inspirations that have shaped his career.

Roger's introduction to Latin music began with his mother and a serendipitous discovery--while walking home from middle school, he found a label-less record in the street. He brought it home, played it, and was immediately transported by its rhythms. Years later, he would learn it was a Cuban 'Descargas' album by Cachao. In a full-circle moment, while working with Mongo Santamaria on 'Mongo's Way', Cachao played bass on that recording.

Dance has long played a central role in Roger's life. His composition 'Zambo's Mambo' was inspired by the discovery that 'Zambo' refers to someone of mixed African and Native American ancestry. 'Cal's Guajira' is dedicated to Cal Tjader, with whom Roger shared a Grammy win for 'La Onda Va Bien'. 'Brother Marshall' honors educators who inspire, while 'A Night of Love' speaks for itself in romantic tone.

'Energizer' got its name after Roger, unwinding post-gig, saw a pink bunny on TV--an apt symbol for its driving energy. 'Congo Square' pays homage to the culturally significant site in New Orleans where African and European traditions converged to birth jazz and other genres. 'Angola' stems from Roger's research and visit to Louisiana's Angola Prison and the country of Angola, connecting historical dots. His love for Brazilian music, kindled while touring with Dizzy Gillespie, pulses through 'Samba De Carnaval.'

Track Listing

• Zambo's Mambo
• Cal's Guajira
• Brother Marshall
• A Night of Love
• Energizer
• Congo Square
• Angola
• Samba De Carnaval

Additional Details

Label: Patois

Genre: Jazz

Run Time: 48:43 mins

Region: 0

Release Date: 08/22/25

UPC: 666449257698