Percussion Queen from Cuba

Melena's formal training began on the drums when she was a teenager. Master percussionist Luis Conte was instrumental in shaping her early development. In 1988, Melena returned to Cuba for the first time since leaving as a child. While in Cuba, Melena studied with the "Conjunto Folklorico Nacional de Cuba". She has also studied with the legendary percussionists and folklorists Mario Jauregui, Regino Jimenez and Lazaro Ros. This experience gave her a solid foundation, offering her a unique sound which is distinctly her own.

Her impressive performance credits include playing with such artists as:

    Stevie Wonder

    Barry White

    Chayanne

    Julio Iglesias

    Eva Ayllon

    Peru Negro

    Justo Almario

    Alex Acuna

    Macy Gray

    John Tesh

    Tom Jones

    Chaka Khan

    Isaac Hayes

    Carl Anderson

    Jonathan Butler

    Chucho Valdes & Irakere

    Kenny Kirkland

    Francisco Aguabella

    Benny Maupin

    Victor Bailey

    Byron Miller

    Ndgu Chancler

    Rayford Griffin

    Papo Conga