Raul Rekow 11-3/4" Conga

1954 - 2015

Raul Rekow

Carlos Santana said, “Raul Rekow redefined what it meant to be a conga player.” As the conguero for Carlos Santana's band from 1976 – 2013 Raul participated in the groundbreaking melding of Latin, Rock and Funk styles that characterizes the band's music. The San Francisco-born Rekow was initially self-taught and joined the band Malo, led by Carlos Santana’s brother Jorge Santana in 1972 that had a huge hit with “Suavecito.” After playing in Sapo, another Latin-rock band he was asked to jam with Carlos in 1976 and was invited to join the band where he learned from legendary Santana veterans Armando Peraza and Orestes Vilato.

Raul has also recorded and performed with Aretha Franklin, Patti Labelle, Whitney Houston, Tremaine Hawkins, Herbie Hancock and others. Charismatic, theatrical, evocative and powerful, Raul Rekow drew from a deep well. His grooves were impeccable whether on stage or on recordings. He was a great ambassador for Latin Percussion, conducting clinics all over the globe with his long-time brother in rhythm, Karl Perazzo. Raul’s untimely passing was a loss to fellow musicians and fans that will forever have him in their hearts. We are proud that we were able to work with him and his family to introduce the special Raul Rekow Signature congas and bongos.