Santana Percussionist Raul Rekow Has Died

From 1976 through 2013 (with a two-year exception), percussionist Raul Rekow was a fixture of the Santana band. Rekow has passed away as noted by Carlos Santana, who shared the following statement on his Facebook page:

“We mourn the loss of my brother, Raul Rekow. He was an integral member of Santana for 34 years and the heart beat of the band. His presence on the stage was one of power, grace, collaboration and joy. He redefined what it means to be a conga player. My heart goes out to his family. Raul, may you soar in heaven in the company of your Mom and Dad.”

Rekow died on Sunday night surrounded by his family after a battle with cancer. A photo of Raul’s empty stage setup was posted to his Facebook page. Raul decided he wanted to play congas after watching Santana and his pre-fame Blues Band perform near San Francisco in 1967. Less than ten years later, and after spending time in a Santana tribute act, Carlos invited Rekow to join his band. In addition to his 35+ year run in Santana, Raul contributed to recordings from Aretha Franklin, Herbie Hancock, John Lee Hooker and many other musicians.

Rekow has a few claims to fame in the Phish world. Not only did he sit-in with the Vermonters on July 25, 1992 in Stowe, he also is name-checked a few times within the original “Walfredo” in which the drummer protagonist of the tune is not as “cool as Raul.”

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Raul’s friends and family.