Grupo Niche

Founded in 1980 in Cali, Colombia, Grupo Niche has established itself as one of the most enduring and influential salsa ensembles in the world. The group was the brainchild of Jairo Varela, a prolific musician who served as the band's director, songwriter, producer, and primary creative force. The initial lineup featured a diverse group of musicians, including pianist Nicolas Cristanelo, trombonist Alexis Lozano, and bassist Francisco Garcia, alongside vocalists Jorge Bassam and Hector Viveros.

The group debuted in 1980 with the album Al Pasito, which began to establish Colombia's presence in the competitive international salsa market. This was quickly followed by Querer Es Poder in 1981, a release that signaled the band's growing commercial potential and Varela's evolving songwriting style, which often blended social commentary with rhythmic complexity.