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Miguel “Miguelito” León is a testament to borderless musical exploration. As a multi-award-winning producer, percussionist, and educator, León stands at the crossroads of cultural and rhythmic confluence. Born in California into a proud Xicano family, he absorbed the sounds of Latin, jazz, Afro-Cuban, and Flamenco music from an early age. By 10, he was performing professionally, a prelude to his lifelong commitment to percussion. At 17, he made the pivotal decision to study in Havana, deepening his roots in the island’s musical traditions rather than attending the Berklee College of Music.
This choice enriched his artistry and, by 20, he was directing youth drum programs and splitting his time between Cuba and the U.S. His leadership of the Rumba All-Stars culminated in them becoming the first folkloric group to earn Cuba's Cubadisco People’s Choice Award—evidence of his impact on the music community there. Beyond performance, León’s initiative, CALI2CUBA, focuses on teaching Afro-Cuban rhythms to women and children in Havana, fostering a new generation of musical storytellers. His collaborations span genres and include notable artists such as Emmy-winner Benise, Michael McDonald, and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, showcasing his versatility and passion for cross-cultural music dialogue.
