Luis Conte

Luis Conte’s genius stems from his ability to integrate the powerful rhythms of his native Cuba with the American necessities of Western pop music. His long and varied career includes numerous Hollywood film scores and mega-successful albums.

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

In pursuit of freedom, Luis emigrated to Madrid, Spain at the age of fifteen. Soon after this brave move, another blessing in the form of travel took him to Los Angeles. Luis stayed with a cousin and attended Hollywood High School. He played guitar in several rock bands throughout his teens.

As a student at LA City College, Luis met John Monteallegre, who reunited him with Cuban drums. By the time he was eighteen, Luis was intensely interested in drumming and took up every opportunity to play and to learn. He drew his inspiration from a deep source of rhythm that he had developed during his youth in Cuba. This mastery propelled his popularity as a performer and a sought-after band member.

An in-demand musician and session player, Luis is regarded as one of the most respected and recorded percussionists in the world. He has performed and recorded with Madonna, Ray Charles, Phil Collins, James Taylor, Santana, Shakira, Jackson Browne, Sergio Mendes, Cachao, and a multitude of A-list artists.

"Percussionist of the Year" - Modern Drummer Reader's Poll (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012)

"Percussionist of the Year" - Drum Magazine (2007, 2008, 2009) "Studio Percussionist of the Year" - Drum Magazine (2007, 2008, 2009)

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