Carlos 'Patato' Valdes Tribute // 04-11-20

Carlos ‘Patato’ Valdes is one of the all time great percussionists. His conga playing is full of melody and intricate rhythms, and although he left Havana in the mid 50s, he was one of the giants of Cuban music. With an extensive back catalogue both as a sideman and leader, Patato’s impact extended beyond playing into the very design of the conga itself. He was, according to Tito Puente, ‘the greatest conguero alive today’. Happy birthday Carlos ‘Patato’ Valdes.