During the 2026 NAMM Show at the Anaheim Convention Center, legendary musician, Karl Perazzo, was celebrated with the Latin Percussion Lifetime Achievement Award in a standing-room-only ceremony held Friday, January 23, at the Roland Space. Industry leaders, fellow musicians, and devoted fans packed the venue and spilled into the surrounding outdoor areas to witness the emotional tribute to the 14-time Grammy winner whose career has shaped generations of rhythm makers.
KARL PERAZZO’S LEGACY TAKES CENTER STAGE AT NAMM 2026
Visibly moved as he accepted the honor on the Roland stage, Perazzo reflected on the journey that led him there. “I know they gave me this award because of who I am,” he told the crowd, thanking the musicians and mentors who helped shape his life and career. The atmosphere was fueled by admiration for the percussionist, producer, and songwriter renowned for his commanding timbales, as well as his trademark showmanship and deep, infectious groove.
The award was presented by Santana vocalist, and longtime friend and collaborator Andy Vargas, who has seen Perazzo as a mentor. Vargas spoke on behalf of Carlos and Cindy Santana and the entire band:“He’s not just a master of that percussion, he is a guide, and someone whose spirit has touched my family and me deeply,” Vargas said before formally handing Perazzo the honor. He later added that presenting the award was “one of the most meaningful moments of my life,” praising Perazzo’s enduring influence, generosity, and legacy.
The celebration was further underscored by the presenting brands: LP Music, DW Drums, and Roland, whose long-standing relationships with Perazzo highlight his impact both onstage and within the instrument world.
PERAZZO’S EMOTIONAL REFLECTIONS
In his remarks, Perazzo emphasized gratitude for the community that has supported him for decades. “There is some real talent in this room, the masters that came to support me,” he said, acknowledging fellow artists and family waiting backstage to congratulate him. Recalling humble beginnings, he added, “I bought my first instrument shoeshining. I only know Latin percussion.” He also spoke passionately about artist–brand partnerships and professionalism, noting that endorsement relationships carry responsibility and purpose. “To be surrounded by brands that believed in the artist and the artists that believe in the brand, it goes hand in hand. It is not a game,” he concluded.
Perazzo has spent decades touring with Santana and appearing on numerous Carlos Santana albums, while also collaborating with icons such as Malo, Dizzy Gillespie, Pete and Coke Escovedo, Prince, Mariah Carey, John Lee Hooker, Tito Puente, and Rubén Blades.
Beyond the stage and studio, he continues to crisscross the country leading educational clinics for the Latin Percussion Music Group, driven by a belief that musical knowledge is meant to be shared. Fans can explore more of Perazzo’s world and his celebrations of fellow musicians on YouTube at TBS Music where his passion for rhythm and community continues to shine.
Photo Credit: Rebecca Niebla
