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Roberto Fonseca

Cuban pianist Roberto Fonseca has music flowing through his veins. He's the product of musicians, his father was a drummer, his mother, Mercedes Cortes Alfaro, a professional singer. Born in Havana Cuba in 1975, Roberto began studying piano at the age of 8 and made his first appearance at the International Jazz Festival of Havana at only 15. After receiving his Master's in composition at the Instituto Superior de Art, Roberto left Cuba to find his sound touring Europe and eventually formed the group Tempermento with saxophonist Javier Zalba. Their album En El Comienzo was awarded Cuba's Best Jazz Album in 1999.

Roberto released two solo albums, 1999's Tiene Que Var and 2001's Elengo which combines his influences of Latin jazz, drum & bass, hip-hop, urban music, & Afro-Cuban rhythms. 2001 was a big year for Roberto as he toured with Buena Vista Social Club and joined Ibrahim Ferrer's orchestra playing over 400 concerts worldwide. Roberto received rave reviews of his talent and stage presence with the orchestra.

Continuing to tour over the years, Roberto released his 4th studio album Zamazu in 2008. This album was inspired by his pool of influences and experiences and features his mother's vocals. The album's track "Llego Cachito" was featured in Will Smith's film Hancock. Also in 2008, Roberto recorded the album Gracias by Omara Portuondo which won a Latin Grammy.

Also under his belt is Roberto's 5th album, Akokan, released in 2009 it encompasses the style and sound of live improvisation. The CD/DVD Live at Marciac was released in 2011 and the album YO released in 2012.