Richard Marquez

Richard Marquez is a drummer, percussionist, composer and music teacher. Raised in Venice Beach, California, Richard picked up his first drum at the age of two. He went on to study extensively with respected masters of both the Afro-Cuban tradition and American classical technique. Working professionally as a drummer and percussionist since the age of 15, he has amassed an array of experiences from a diverse pool of renowned artists, including WAR, Paquito DeRivera, Eric Burdon (The Animals), Placido Domingo, The Brand New Heavies, Joe Cuba and Arturo Sandoval. Richard’s greatest honor is his 17 years with the late Cuban legend Israel Lopez (“Cachao”), creator of the mambo, with whom Richard recorded multiple albums (including three Grammy-winning) and film scores. Richard currently performs with Cachao’s band, Andy Garcia and the Cineson All-Stars, as well as with his own trio, Descarga Moderna, embodying both latin jazz and Afro-Cuban rhythms and vocals. Richard records, tracks and mixes other artists in various genres, as well as his own original compositions in the style he calls “Cu-hop,” a mix of Afro-Cuban, hip-hop and funk rhythms, in homage to both his cultural roots and his urban upbringing. He is an established instructor who teaches drum set and percussion (congas, bongos, timbales, cajon, bata) in all styles (latin, rock, reggae, hip-hop, funk), as well as all elements of music production (from songwriting to publishing).