Luis Conte

Luis Conte’s genius stems from his ability to integrate the powerful rhythms of his native Cuba with the necessities of American music, both jazz and pop. His long and varied career has included numerous Hollywood film scores and mega-successful albums with Madonna, Ray Charles, Phil Collins, Santana, Shakira, Jackson Browne, Sergio Mendes, Cachao, and a multitude of other artists.

Born in Santiago, Cuba, Luis spent the first 15 years of his life soaking up the rich musical heritage of “El Son” and Carnival. "Life in Cuba is all about enjoying life, and music is central to that lifestyle," Luis says. "Music is almost like food to Cuban people.” While immersed in the music of his native Cuba, Luis also developed a passion for Rock & Roll, R&B soul music, jazz, and the Beatles.

At 15, looking for freedom, Luis emigrated to Madrid, Spain. He soon had another opportunity to travel, this time to Hollywood. In California, Luis stayed with a cousin and attended Hollywood High School, playing guitar in numerous rock bands throughout his teens.

After high school, Luis met John Monteallegre, who reunited him with Cuban drums at LA City College. By the time he was 18, Luis was intensely interested in drumming and took every opportunity to play and to learn, drawing his inspiration from a deep source of rhythm absorbed during his youth in Cuba.

Since then, Luis has become one of the most respected and recorded percussionists in the world.

Luis Conte was named Modern Drummer's Percussionist of Year for 2009. Luis can offer your students an incredible glimpse into the world of Latin percussion and the music industry as a whole. He is in great demand as a clinician and performer. His expertise covers a wide array of experience, including studio percussion, movie soundtracks as well as concert settings.

KH Artists Group is pleased to offer the talents of Luis Conte for your next percussion event. Luis is available for clinics, master classes, performances with an ensemble, as well as Days of Percussion.