Raul Rekow, who played percussion with the Santana Band almost continuouslyfrom 1976-2013, has died. He appeared on 16 Santana studio efforts, including 1977’s Top 10 hit Moonflower, 1981’s Zebop! (featuring the Top 20 song “Winning”), 1999’s 15-times platinum Supernatural and Carlos Santana‘s most recent solo album, 2014’s Corazon.
“We mourn the loss of my brother, Raul Rekow,” Santana said, via Facebook. “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.”