Originally a guitarist, he discovered his talent for singing during an audition for the R&B band The Halos that rehearsed across the street from his residence.[5] Sanchez became the lead vocalist of The Halos, and would go on to teach himself the flute, the drums, and timbales before finally deciding in high school to pursue conga drumming above all.
Sanchez has released dozens of LP and CD albums.[6]
Career
In 1975, Sanchez's idol, vibraphonistCal Tjader, invited him to perform a set with his band.[7] Seeing the young man's talent, Tjader hired Sanchez for a week before officially making him a full member of the ensemble. Sanchez played a crucial role as conguero for several years until Tjader's death in 1982.
Before he died, Tjader suggested that Concord Records founder Carl Jefferson sign Sanchez and his soon-to-be-formed group under the Concord Picante label. Tjader's wishes were honored, and the first two records were composed and arranged by long-time Tjader collaborator Clare Fischer. Sanchez went on to produce 19 albums for the label, eventually garnering a Grammy for his work.[8][9]
AllMusic described Sanchez as "among the most influential percussionists in jazz."[10] He has been performing frequently in venues varying in size from concert halls to local jazz festivals.[6] His 2005 CD, Do It!, features the funk band Tower of Power on two tracks, as well as South African trumpeterHugh Masekela.[11]
Sanchez is a frequent collaborator with bandleader José Rizo. He played conga on the Grammy-nominated album Mongorama produced by Rizo.[12]
