Frankie Ruiz (born José Antonio Torresola Ruiz; March 10, 1958 – August 9, 1998) was a Puerto Rican American salsa singer celebrated as El Papá de la Salsa. Originating from Paterson, New Jersey, Ruiz rose to prominence in the 1980s as a leading voice of salsa romántica, a subgenre that blended romantic lyrics with vibrant salsa rhythms.
His solo debut Solista pero no solo launched several hits, including the classic La Cura, earning him widespread acclaim in Latin America, the United States, and Spain. Despite personal struggles with addiction, Ruiz's passionate vocals and energetic performances left an indelible mark on salsa music, influencing generations of salseros and fans alike. His legacy continues to resonate as a symbol of salsa's emotional depth and cultural richness.