Formed in the aftermath of the 1964 Harlem Riots, the Har-You Percussion Group emerged as a beacon of hope and creativity for Harlem's youth. Under the mentorship of Jamaican-born percussionist Montego Joe, eleven young men, aged 16 to 19, honed their skills over four years, culminating in the 1969 release of their self-titled album. This dynamic ensemble masterfully blended Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz influences, producing tracks like "Welcome to the Party" that resonate with infectious energy. Their music not only showcased raw talent but also served as a testament to the transformative power of the arts in urban communities. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/music/2014/apr/02/har-you-percussion-group-har-you-percussion-group?utm_source=openai))