Navarro was born in Florida but settled in New York, where his career took off. He played with renowned bandleaders, including Billy Eckstine and Tadd Dameron, as well as with leading jazz musicians like Charlie Parker and Bud Powell. Despite his short life, Navarro left a lasting impact on jazz with his distinctive sound and melodic figures. He passed away from tuberculosis at age 26, but his contributions to bebop have solidified his status as a revered and influential trumpet player.