Pedrito Martinez

Pedrito Martinez is a Cuban-born percussionist, singer, and bandleader raised in Havana's Cayo Hueso neighborhood, where rumba is daily life. He channels Afro-Cuban tradition and its African roots through powerful vocals, improvisation, and dance-ready grooves. Since moving to New York, he has recorded with Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, and Wynton Marsalis and leads The Pedrito Martinez Group, earning Grammy and Latin Grammy nominations since 2005. His shows turn rhythm into celebration, mixing heritage with charismatic, spontaneous energy.