/ Modified may 16, 2014 8:02 a.m.

Puerto Rican Musician Blends Caribbean Rhythms, Southwest

William Portela says his motivation is to touch audience at a "personal level."

Chilie Willie Groove is the stage name of multi-instrumentalist and percussionist William Portela. His music reflects his travels - across continents, and cultures - and drew large crowds to the outdoor concert venue of Monterey Court.

His journey started in Puerto Rico, and eventually brought Portela to Southern Arizona where he leads a Latin jazz band that plays shows year round.

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