Noro Morales (1911–1964) was a Puerto Rican pianist, composer, and bandleader celebrated as one of the pioneers of Latin dance music in the United States. Renowned for his virtuosic piano style and sophisticated arrangements, Morales fused Afro-Caribbean rhythms with jazz harmonies, helping define the sound of the mambo and Latin jazz eras. His orchestra gained widespread acclaim in the 1940s with hits like “Serenata Rítmica,” showcasing his vibrant, danceable, and innovative approach that left a lasting influence on generations of Latin music artists.