Drumming News :
Walfredo de los Reyes Sr., the Cuban-born percussionist whose groundbreaking fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms with modern drumming techniques shaped the sound of Latin jazz, passed away Thursday at the age of 92. His family confirmed the news, marking the loss of a music legend whose six-decade career left an indelible mark on the global music scene.
De los Reyes, born in Havana on June 16, 1933, was part of a musical dynasty. His father, Walfredo de los Reyes II, was a prominent trumpeter who helped establish the Casino de la Playa orchestra, blending Cuban music with the swing of American big bands in the 1930s. This musical heritage laid the foundation for Walfredo’s own contributions to the world of rhythm and percussion.
Throughout his extraordinary career, de los Reyes performed alongside a who’s who of musical icons. His credits include collaborations with Frank Sinatra, Wayne Newton, Tito Puente, Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis Jr., Cachao, La Lupe, and Rita Moreno. He was a familiar figure on the Las Vegas circuit, where his performances spanned decades. His distinctive sound was not just confined to the stage but also graced the recordings of some of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
De los Reyes was instrumental in the development of new drumming techniques, incorporating traditional Cuban percussion with the modern drum set, and his innovation influenced generations of drummers. His achievements as a musician and educator earned him the prestigious Gon Bops Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017, and his story is preserved in the NAMM Oral History Program through a 2011 interview.
A prolific family of musicians continues his legacy. His sons, Walfredo Reyes Jr. and Daniel de los Reyes, have continued the family’s musical tradition, both becoming celebrated drummers in major bands. Walfredo Reyes Jr. is best known for his work with the legendary band Chicago, while Daniel de los Reyes performs with the Zac Brown Band. His granddaughter, Lilliana de los Reyes, has also carried the torch as a vocalist and percussionist, performing alongside renowned guitarist George Benson.
Despite his towering presence in the music world, de los Reyes’ family was also touched by profound loss. His son, actor Kamar de los Reyes, who was known for his role in One Life to Live and for lending his voice to Call of Dutyvideo games, passed away on Christmas Eve in 2023 after a brief battle with cancer.
A statement from the family praised de los Reyes’ legacy, saying: “His rhythm, joy, and spirit will live on through his family and the countless musicians he inspired around the world.” His survivors include his wife, Debbie; daughters Lillian and Ildemarie; son Johnny; and his grandchildren, including Charlene, David, Antonio, Natalie, Christian, Christopher, Joseph, Gabriel, Daniel, Caylen, John, and Michael.
As the family plans to honor his life with a celebration of his contributions to music, the world remembers a man who helped redefine the art of percussion and inspired a new generation of musicians to embrace the rhythm and soul of Latin music.
