Mongo Santamaria

Percussion Profiles: Willie Bobo

Percussion Profiles: Willie Bobo

Willie Bobo (1934–1983) was one of the most versatile percussionists of his generation — a timbalero, conguero, and drummer who moved effortlessly between Afro-Cuban jazz, R&B, boogaloo, and pop, and whose recording of "Evil Ways" became a breakthrough hit for Santana.

Mongo Santamaría

Mongo Santamaría

Ramón “Mongo” Santamaría (1917–2003) brought the sound of the conga drum from Havana to the world stage. His work with Tito Puente, Cal Tjader, and Herbie Hancock helped define Latin Jazz and Afro-Cuban percussion for generations to come.