Roy Ayers (1940–2025), influential musician and composer

Roy Ayers was a musician and composer whose work on the vibraphone helped push the boundaries of jazz, soul, and funk through works like his 1976 classic, “Everybody Loves the Sunshine.” 

Tito Matos (1968–2022), master of the Puerto Rican music known as plena

Tito Matos was an acclaimed percussionist known for his skill playing the traditional Puerto Rican music called plena.

Badal Roy (1939–2022), pioneering tabla player

Badal Roy was a pioneering Indian tabla player who played with jazz legends Miles Davis and Ornette Coleman.  

James Mtume (1946–2022), legendary jazz and R&B musician

James Mtume was a legendary jazz and R&B percussionist, producer, and composer known for the hit single ‘Juicy Fruit.’    

Roberto Roena (1940–2021), legendary salsa percussionist

Roberto Roena was a Puerto Rican salsa percussionist known for his work with legendary bands including El Gran Combo and Fania All Stars.

Laudir de Oliveira (1940–2017), opened the door for Brazilian percussion in rock music

Former percussionist for the rock band Chicago.