Xavier Cugat was a Spanish-American bandleader and violinist who was popular in the 1930s and 1940s. He was known for his Latin-inspired music and his flamboyant style of dress. He was also a successful film actor, appearing in over 30 films. Cugat was one of the first Latin musicians to gain widespread popularity in the United States. He was a major influence on the development of Latin music in the United States and is remembered as one of the most influential bandleaders of the 20th century.