The Band
2025
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Tito Martínez
Tito Néstor Martinez hails from the vibrant cultural heart of Perú.
Néstor is an original member of Grupo Primo and the current band leader. His exceptional talent on the trumpet and his powerful vocals have become the cornerstone of the band’s distinctive style. Before joining Grupo Primo, Néstor honed his craft with local bands such as Los Príncipes del Merengue, Zona Nueva, and Grupo Eco of Los Angeles. He also had the privilege of working with the legendary Mr. Bongo, Jack Constanzo, as well as with Antonio Cartagena and Tito Puente Jr.
Néstor is also skilled in playing "cajón peruano" and is available for hire as a solo artist.
Vocals & Trumpet
Boris Céspedes
Bio coming soon...
Vocals & Trombone
Ernie Bécquer
Timbales & Congas
Ernie Becquer’s musical journey began in childhood, inspired by his grandmothers—one who introduced him to Cuban music like Son and Mambo, and another who was a poet, painter, and recording artist. Their influence fueled his passion for music and his drive for artistic growth. A San Diego resident for over 20 years, Ernie is a sought-after conga player, performing with top Salsa and Latin bands across California. He has toured the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and Africa, sharing stages with legends like Ray Barretto, Tito Puente, and Celia Cruz. Ernie is currently working with several San Diego based bands and is available for hire as an independent artist.
Manny Rodríguez
Congas & Bongo
Manny Rodriguez is the conga player for Grupo Primo. Manny’s musical journey began at the age of 16 when he started playing piano for his church. After serving as a Marine and completing two deployments to Afghanistan, Manny returned home and sought solace in music to help cope with PTSD. He began conga lessons with a Cuban instructor, which became a crucial part of his healing process. A few years later, he expanded his musical expertise by learning to play the batá drum. For Manny, music has always been more than just a passion—it's been a form of therapy that lightens his heart and nourishes his emotional well-being.
Néstor Martínez, "El Júnior"
Six String Bass
Néstor Martinez, affectionally known as "El Junior," is a versatile San Diego musician and audio engineer. Currently focused on game and film audio. He draws from a wide range of influences, including jazz, funk, rock, and the vibrant sounds of Latin America. His versatility extends beyond this, as he also brings his musical prowess to The Hypocrites Club, a progressive rock band based in San Diego. Néstor’s journey is a testament to his passion for music and his commitment to mastering his craft. Whether performing live or in the studio, he offers his talents as a solo artist, available for hire for both live and studio session drumming.
Guitar & Güira
Of Mexican and Peruvian descent, San Diego native, Edson Martinez is the youngest member of Grupo Primo who began his musical career with the high school mariachi band. His talent on the guitar earned him a scholarship from the Mariachi Scholarship Foundation. Known for his lightning-fast fingers and the vibrant "punteos" he brings to his guitar, Edson is instrumental in infusing Grupo Primo’s bachatas with their unique sound of arpeggiated chords and melodic lines.
Edson is also lead/rhythm guitar player of the up-and-coming progressive rock band, The Hypocrites Club, based in San Diego.
Edson Martínez
Other extraordinary musicians that lend their talent to PRIMO...
Howard Meneses
Percussion
David Castañeda
Percussion
Andy Fraguela
Percussion
Charlie Chávez
Percussion