About David Oquendo
The Soul of Cuban Music
From the Streets of Havana to the Global Stage
From the Streets of Havana to the Global Stage
David Oquendo is a Grammy® and Tony® Award-winning musician, composer, and arranger whose life is a testament to the power of rhythm. For decades, he has dedicated himself to preserving, sharing, and elevating the authentic sounds of Afro-Cuban music. Whether he is directing a Broadway hit or leading a traditional rumba circle, David brin
David Oquendo is a Grammy® and Tony® Award-winning musician, composer, and arranger whose life is a testament to the power of rhythm. For decades, he has dedicated himself to preserving, sharing, and elevating the authentic sounds of Afro-Cuban music. Whether he is directing a Broadway hit or leading a traditional rumba circle, David brings a profound passion and visionary talent to every stage he touches.
David Oquendo continues to break new ground, crafting music that speaks to the soul and moves the body. His latest album, Inspiración, is a vibrant journey through rhythm and melody that showcases a master at the peak of his powers.
We invite you to explore his music, learn about his cultural initiatives, and experience the heartbeat of Cuba for yourself.
From the Streets of Havana to the Global Stage
From the Streets of Havana to the Global Stage
From the Streets of Havana to the Global Stage
Born in Havana, Cuba, in 1958, David absorbed the rich, rhythmic vernacular of his native city's vibrant neighborhoods. Completely self-taught, he picked up the guitar at the age of 12. While he lacked formal conservatory training, his unmatched discipline, deep passion, and relentless self-criticism propelled him forward.
He quickly becam
Born in Havana, Cuba, in 1958, David absorbed the rich, rhythmic vernacular of his native city's vibrant neighborhoods. Completely self-taught, he picked up the guitar at the age of 12. While he lacked formal conservatory training, his unmatched discipline, deep passion, and relentless self-criticism propelled him forward.
He quickly became one of the most sought-after accompanist guitarists in Cuba, performing at legendary venues like Cabaret Tropicana and El Rincon del Feeling. Over the years, his journey took him far beyond Havana. Today, David performs on the world's most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden, and Jazz at Lincoln Center, sharing his cultural heritage with audiences across the globe.impactful.
A Legacy of Musical Excellence
From the Streets of Havana to the Global Stage
A Legacy of Musical Excellence
I begin each piece with a vision in mind, but allow the materials and my instincts to guide me as I work. I believe that the process of creating art should be just as fulfilling as the finished piDavid's virtuosic talent has earned him the highest honors in the entertainment industry. He holds a Grammy® Award for his work on the celebrate
I begin each piece with a vision in mind, but allow the materials and my instincts to guide me as I work. I believe that the process of creating art should be just as fulfilling as the finished piDavid's virtuosic talent has earned him the highest honors in the entertainment industry. He holds a Grammy® Award for his work on the celebrated album Tropicana’s Nights with Paquito D’Rivera, alongside multiple Grammy® and Latin Grammy® nominations for projects like Heart of a Legend and Raices Habaneras.
Most recently, David received a 2025 Special Tony Award for his exceptional musical contributions to the Broadway sensation Buena Vista Social Club. Serving as the Associated Musical Director, arranger, singer, and guitarist, he played a crucial role in capturing the true spirit of Cuba and bringing it to the heart of New York City's theater district.
Throughout his career, David has collaborated with a pantheon of musical icons. He has shared the studio and the stage with legends such as Compay Segundo, Marc Anthony, Arturo Sandoval, Johnny Pacheco, and Israel "Cachao" Lopez, seamlessly blending his traditional roots with diverse musical styles.