Known
for his melodic and percussive style, RAY MARTINEZ has
been considered one of the most gifted and prominent
bassist/arranger in the contemporary Latin and Salsa music
scenes.
Ray
composed, arranged, recorded and performed for many years
with Latin-jazz legend MONGO SANTAMARIA. As the leader and
creator of his own salsa band, "CONJUNTO TIPICO
CRIOLLO", Ray produced and arranged three albums. Ray
was also a member of the BUDDHA LATIN JAZZ ALL STARS.
RAY
MARTINEZ has enjoyed a prolific musical career recording
and performing with such artist as the "KING OF LATIN
MUSIC" TITO PUENTE, "THE QUEEN OF SALSA"
CELIA CRUZ, Latin Jazz great MONGO SANTAMARIA, RAY BARRETO,
JOHNNY PACHECO, ISMAEL RIVERA TIPICA 73, AND PETE "EL
CONDE" RODRIGUEZ among others. Having firmly
established his reputation as an excellent musician, Ray
was chosen to participate with PAUL SIMON in several
musical recordings and also porformed in two world tours
with DAVID BYRNE ex-leader of the TALKING HEADS.
In
addition, Ray served as special guest on DAVID BYRNE'S
production of Brazilian artist MARGARETH MENEZES.
Increasingly
in demand, he has recorded with international star JUAN
LUIS GUERRA AND 440, AFRICANDO from Africa, and the
ultimate expression of Puerto Rican folklore in New York,
LOS PLENEROS DE LA 21.
Back
by popular demand, Ray Martinez is producing a fourth
production for CONJUNTO CRIOLLO. While maintaining his
original style, Ray's music adds new dynamics enriching
his already hard driving sound.
RAY
MARTINEZ, native of the Dominican Republic received his
formal music education from the NATIONAL CONSERVATORY OF
MUSIC in the Dominican Republic and upon moving to the U.S
he continued his studies at LEHMAN COLLEGE of New York
City.
