Luis Conte is a distinguished Cuban percussionist who has seamlessly integrated the vibrant rhythms of his homeland into a multitude of musical genres, earning him a revered spot among contemporary music’s elite. Born in Santiago de Cuba, Conte was enveloped in the rich musical traditions of “El Son” and the festive beats of Carnival from an early age. His father often took him to musical events, immersing him in the sounds that would later shape his unique style.
At 15, Conte embarked on a journey that led him from Madrid, Spain, to Los Angeles, California. Initially pursuing the guitar, he soon found his true calling in percussion. By 1973, he was a regular performer in local clubs, and his versatility quickly made him a sought-after studio musician. Throughout the 1970s, he played with the Latin jazz band Caldera, marking the beginning of an illustrious career.
The 1980s saw Conte’s live performance career soar as he joined Madonna’s touring band, bringing Afro-Cuban percussion to international audiences. His collaborations span an impressive roster of artists, including Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana, Phil Collins, Rod Stewart, Shakira, Aretha Franklin, Céline Dion, and many others. Notably, he was part of Phil Collins’ “Dance into the Light” tour in 1997 and the “First Farewell Tour” in 2004, adding depth to the concert performances with his Afro-Cuban rhythms.
Beyond live performances, Conte’s percussion has enriched numerous film scores, contributing to soundtracks for movies such as “Transformers,” “The Lost City,” “Hancock,” “Rain Man,” “Mission: Impossible,” and “The Italian Job.” His work in the studio has been recognized with multiple accolades, including a Grammy Award and several nominations. He has been named “Percussionist of the Year” multiple times by both Drum Magazine and the Modern Drummer Readers Poll.
In 2018, Conte was honored as the Cultural Ambassador of the Latin Music Institute (ILM), acknowledging his significant contributions to Latin music and culture.
Currently, Conte is preparing for the release of his upcoming album, featuring bassist Carlitos Del Puerto, trumpet master Leider Chapotin, the queen of SalSoul Cecilia Noël among other big names in the latin world. This album promises to be a rhythmic journey, blending diverse percussive elements into a cohesive musical experience. Notably, Conte collaborated with record producer – engineer Jake Carmona on this project, as well as renowned Tres player San Miguel Perez ensuring a fusion of technical expertise and creative artistry.
Reflecting on his journey, Conte emphasizes the importance of authenticity and connection in music. His ability to blend traditional Cuban rhythms with various musical styles has not only defined his career but has also enriched the global music landscape. As he continues to innovate and inspire, fans eagerly await the release of “Ear Candy,” anticipating another testament to his percussive mastery.
