Roberto Santamaria

Roberto Santamaria is a Cuban jazz musician and percussionist born on June 7, 1963, in Havana, Cuba. He is notably the nephew of Mongo Santamaría, a legendary figure and co-founder of Afro-Cuban jazz. Roberto grew up deeply immersed in Afro-Cuban musical traditions, learning percussion techniques from renowned musicians including his uncle. After an early career in Havana’s vibrant music scene and a stint performing in Dubai, he founded his own band in Cuba in 2003. His performances are marked by the distinctive Afro-Cuban conga styles inherited from his family and mentors, blending traditional rhythms with jazz and soul influences. Nowadays, he lives mainly in Tübingen, Germany, while maintaining strong ties to his Cuban roots.

Roberto’s music projects, like *Cuban Soul Train* and *Fiesta al Jazz*, showcase a fusion of Cuban rhythms with salsa, cha-cha, reggaeton, and soul elements. He’s recognized not only as a talented conga player and singer but also as an engaging live performer who brings passion and storytelling to his shows. The mix of tradition and global influences reflects his unique approach to Latin jazz and Afro-Cuban music, carrying forward his family legacy into contemporary styles.