About Giovanni
"Giovanni Hidalgo is a true percussion virtuoso, bringing his unmatched hand-drumming skills and rich Latin influence to Planet Drum."
— Mickey Hart, Grateful Dead
"Giovanni Hidalgo has been one of the reigning kings of Latin jazz percussion for a reason. His high-energy performances, masterful collaborations, and dedication to education continue to elevate the world of percussion. Even at 59, he shows no signs of slowing down."
— Modern Drummer, 2023 Readers Poll Winner
Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and raised in Santurce, Giovanni Hidalgo comes from a prestigious lineage of musicians, particularly percussionists. His father, José Manuel “Mañengue” Hidalgo, was a renowned conguero, and his home was filled with drums, inspiring Giovanni to begin playing at just three years old. By age eight, he was mastering rhythms with both sticks and hands, refining a unique approach that would revolutionize Latin percussion.
Hidalgo’s professional journey began early, playing with Puerto Rico’s top musicians before turning 18. He was hired by Batacumbele in 1980 and, during a pivotal trip to Cuba, collaborated with Changuito (José Luis Quintana) to pioneer a groundbreaking rhythmic style.
His international breakthrough came in 1985 when Dizzy Gillespie, captivated by his playing, invited him to join the United Nation Orchestra. From there, Hidalgo’s career soared, performing and recording with legends across jazz, Latin, and world music, including Eddie Palmieri, Paul Simon, Tito Puente, McCoy Tyner, Zakir Hussain, and Carlos Santana. His innovative approach translated drum set rudiments to the conga, redefining the instrument’s role in modern music.
A Grammy-winning artist, Hidalgo contributed to Mickey Hart’s Planet Drum, and Global Drum Project, D’Angelo’s Vodoo and his own critically acclaimed works like Tribute to The King, The Conga Kings and Hands of Rhythm. He also served as an educator, as a professor at Berklee College of Music from 1992 to 1996 and later receiving an honorary doctorate from the institution in 2010.
Throughout his career, Hidalgo has remained a driving force in percussion, fusing Afro-Caribbean traditions with jazz, funk, and global rhythms. His artistry continues to inspire musicians worldwide, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest percussionists of all time.