FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 28, 2025

Legendary Percussionist Walfredo de los Reyes Sr. Passes Away at 92

Walfredo de los Reyes Sr. (June 16, 1933 – August 28, 2025)

Los Angeles – August 30, 2025 – Walfredo de los Reyes Sr., the Cuban American percussionist celebrated for redefining percussion technique by blending hand percussion with the modern drum set, died in Concord, California on August 28. He was 91.

Born in Havana in 1933, de los Reyes Sr. came from a lineage of musicians—his father, trumpeter Walfredo de los Reyes II, helped found the legendary Casino de la Playa orchestra. Walfredo Sr. went on to pioneer techniques that inspired generations of drummers, earning recognition as one of the most influential percussionists of his time.

Over his career, he performed with Latin and American greats including Tito Puente, Cachao, La Lupe, Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis Jr., Bernadette Peters, Dionne Warwick, and Debbie Reynolds. He spent decades in Las Vegas, where he became a fixture onstage with top entertainers.

In addition to performing, de los Reyes Sr. was an educator and mentor. He was honored with the Gon Bops Lifetime Achievement Award, and his story is preserved through the NAMM Oral History Program.

“Our father’s rhythm, joy, and spirit will live on through his family and the countless musicians he inspired around the world,” the Reyes family said in a statement.

Walfredo Sr.’s musical legacy continues through his sons: Walfredo Reyes Jr., acclaimed drummer and percussionist with Chicago; Daniel de los Reyes of the Zac Brown Band; and his granddaughter, Lilliana de los Reyes, currently performing with the legendary George Benson. He was predeceased by his son, Kamar de los Reyes (1967–2022), celebrated actor in television and film. Together, they represent three generations of artistry and rhythm that span music, culture, and entertainment worldwide.

He is also survived by his wife Debbie Bellamy de los Reyes, daughters Lillian Elena Schwarz, Ildemarie Ramirez, son Johnny Skandros, grandchildren Charlene Moyers, David Schwarz, Antonio Ramirez, Natalie Ramirez, Christian Ramirez, Christopher Ramirez, Joseph de los Reyes, Gabriel de los Reyes, Daniel Hookani de los Reyes and extended family who will carry forward his spirit of music and love. 

Funeral and memorial arrangements will be private but a celebration of life event will soon be disclosed.

Media inquiries should be directed to:

Julie Wohlberg
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