Franky Perez

Singer/songwriter Franky Perez launched his career after striking up a friendship with Lazaro Valdez, the renowned conga player and Cuban exile. He had hoped to begin in New York City, yet limited resources made a move to Miami the practical choice for reestablishing cultural ties. The two bonded at once, allowing Perez to absorb Cuban traditions such as voodoo while sharpening his musical skills. Still working as a waiter and living on the edge of poverty, he received a call from Pete Angelus, who had previously managed Van Halen and the Black Crowes. Angelus advised him to abandon Miami in favor of the greater opportunities in Los Angeles. Perez followed that counsel, pausing in his hometown of Las Vegas long enough to assemble the Highway Saints. Atlantic’s Lava Records offered a contract late in 2002, and the following spring saw the release of his introspective debut album Poor Man's Son, infused with worldbeat elements.