Romancing the Tone

Despite the new musical directions in recent years, Enrique still frequents clubs around the city, joining impromptu jam sessions with other musicians. Highly regarded for his ability to play a slew of instruments and develop blistering rhythms, he has also played on significant recordings over the years. It's Enrique's hands on the congas that serve as an introduction to Gloria Estefan's "Mi Tierra" ("My Land"), off her top-selling album Abriendo Puertas (Opening Doors). He also sat in as an instrumentalist on Ricky Martin's world-renowned late-Nineties hit "Maria."

"Even though my career took off in another direction, I will always enjoy playing music," says Enrique. "It's part of my essence and part of what Luis Enrique is all about."