 At first Martinez, who lived with his parents, played his instrument at local parties and dances, earning anywhere from $1.50 to $2.00 (US) for each dance that he performed in.In 1921, Martinez and his brother moved to San Juan, the capital city of Puerto Rico.In San Juan, Martinez and his brother recruited the famed guitarist Patricio Toribio Rijos, and together they founded the musical group "Trio Ladi."