Meet the host

José C. Massó III has left an indelible mark on the Latin community in Boston. A native of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, Massó has brought his rich cultural heritage and unwavering passion for empowering others to WBUR's airwaves for nearly five decades.

Back in 1973, Massó commenced his illustrious career as an educator and public servant, taking on the crucial role of teaching bilingual education at Copley Square High School. It was a time of immense change, with court-mandated busing aimed at desegregating the Boston Public Schools. Fueled by a sense of purpose and justice, Massó said he embraced this period as an opportunity to make a difference, bridge divides and empower his students.

Over the years, Massó has weaved through various leadership roles in education, communications, media, government, politics, sports, entertainment, higher education, and philanthropy. Yet, it was a pivotal moment in 1975 that set the stage for his groundbreaking impact in Greater Boston.

Inspired by Felipe Luciano, a former Young Lord, influential poet and radio host of “Latin Roots” in New York City, Massó embarked on a new career in broadcasting. On June 22, 1975, he launched ¡Con Salsa! at WBUR, taking the helm as the host, producer and curator.

The show’s mission extended far beyond entertainment. It sought to educate, inform and serve as a bridge between cultures. Massó made it his purpose to emphasize the invaluable contributions of Afro-Latinos to history and culture, empowering his listeners with a sense of pride, unity and collective strength.

A proud Afro-Puerto Rican, he made it his mission to spotlight the richness of Latino culture, history, traditions and language. He has often been touted as a beacon of inspiration, especially for Afro-Latinos, encouraging his audience to embrace their heritage, engage in civic responsibility and celebrate their roots.

In 2010, Massó was inducted into the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame, becoming the first Puerto Rican/Latino to receive the honor.

In 2021, the Jazz Journalists Association honored Massó with its Jazz Hero Boston award for introducing the area’s jazz community to the riches of Afro-Latin music, while giving his Spanish-speaking listeners insight into the music of jazz.

Committed to the future of Boston, Massó has served as a mentor and champion for several emerging leaders throughout the last 50 years and was named one of the 100 Most Influential people in 2022 by Boston Magazine.

José is one of 69 renowned civil rights activists whose names are embedded at the Embrace Sculpture and the 1965 Freedom Plaza honoring the legacy of Dr. Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.