Sam Rodriguez with his distinct musical personality, has established himself as one of the Top Drummer/Percussionist player of his generation. He is recognized for his strong and creative imagination that present a fresh, new sound and approach to both Drum and Percussion. Sam has demonstrated his versatility and gained even wider recognition by performing or recording with a broad scope of artists such as Anita Baker, Al Jarreau, Jennifer Holiday, Barry White, Gladys Knight and Jessye Norman.
Born in Chicago and raised in Puerto Rico, Sam began his musical travels at age six by playing drums. Striving to preserve the African Heritage in Latin American Popular music, Sam interprets a wide range of rhythms, including the Puerto Rican Bomba & Plena, Guaguanco, Samba and Latin Jazz. Sam first gained international exposure in 1979 as a member of the "Richie Ray and Bobby Cruz Salsa Band". Throughout his career, Sam has never lacked the appreciation of the media and the fans alike. He has been mentioned in Down Beat, Modern Drummer, Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times.
Sam has developed a style of teaching and performing on percussion and drum set in which you can develop command and control of the instrument. He has continued his commitment as an educator by conducting classes, clinics and workshops with projects such as NARAS (Grammy in the School) in inner city schools. He has also has shared his talent, knowledge and experience in the music business with articles published in the Percussion Arts Society.