Ishmael "IZZY" Santiago

Born Puerto Rican but truly has A Portuguese heart. Izzy has dedicated himself to his family and the LUSO community being in the music scene since the 60’s and currently plays percussion for Luso American David Demelo & Banda International but his list of experience is endless.

Watch his video as he talks about growing up "IZZY" listening to musical greats such as Ray Baretto, Reuben Blades and Arturo Sandoval who were some his musical influences. He tells us how he was playing clubs at the age of 14-15 in which his parents yet supportive were not happy. Izzy continues to tell us about his musical family and his most memorable performances.

Izzy has recently participated on WJFD's unplugged radio show with Dionisio Garcia and his last minute “fill in” for the “house band" at Jack Sebastiao's (R.I.P) tribute show.

Check him out and stay till the end as “the apple doesn't fall far from the tree."