Carlos Valdes (November 4, 1926 – December 4, 2007) was a Cuban-born American conga player. In 1955 he emigrated from Cuba to New York City where he played with Willie Bobo in Harlem. He was also known by the name "Patato". He invented and patented the tunable conga drum (earlier drums had nailed heads) which revolutionized use of the instrument. Tito Puente called him "the greatest conguero alive today". Since the 1950s Patato was among the congueros that are in highest demand in the Latin Music and jazz world. He played, toured and recorded together with singer… read more
Carlos Valdes (November 4, 1926 – December 4, 2007) was a Cuban-born American conga player. In 1955 he emigrated from Cuba to New York City where he played with Willie Bobo in Harlem. He was also known by the name "Patato". He invented and patented the tunable conga drum (earlier dr… read more
Carlos Valdes (November 4, 1926 – December 4, 2007) was a Cuban-born American conga player. In 1955 he emigrated from Cuba to New York City where he played with Willie Bobo in Harlem. He was also known by the name "Patato". He invented and patented the tunable conga drum (earlier drums had nailed heads) which revolutionized use of the instrument. Tito P… read more
