- Mambo Street bongos & percussion -

Rene Valdeolivar
One of Mambo Street?s recent acquisitions is bongocero and percussionist extraordinaire Rene Valdeolivar. Rene?s first encounter with music was in the first grade while attending St. Charles Catholic School in the heart of the Mission District. He was introduced to guitar and violin which stirred a passion for music ever since. By the time he was in the 8th grade, he was exposed to the wonders of Latin percussion through the music of Santana, Malo, Azteca, etc. and began studying this genre in earnest. His major influences then and now are Manny Oquendo, John Rodriguez, Armando Peraza, as well as Orestes Vilato (formerly of Santana) and the great Tito Puente. ?I try to incorporate their styles in my solos?, says Rene. Indeed, upon hearing this vibrant Mexican American solo, it is easy to understand where his inspiration comes from.

After languishing for several years in relative obscurity, Rene joined the highly acclaimed Latin rock band of Mestizo in 1996. It was with Mestizo that Rene was really able to hone his skills as a percussionist and, perhaps most important, acquire a new fondness and respect for the music. He practiced religiously and improved so much over time that he was asked to sit in with many prominent Latin bands, which is how he attained a reputation and came to the attention of Mambo Street in July 2002. The first time he sat in with the band, it was truly magic. ?I really enjoy playing with Mambo Street.? Says Rene, ? It?s a dream come true.? Not only is he a skilled practitioner of Latin percussion, but a considerate and humorous individual as well. His philosophy on music: ?Although I take it serious, it must be fun and enjoyable. Otherwise, it?s not worth it.? This gentle giant of a man truly serves the music.