Photo: Tyler Lord
Zac Brown Band mourned the loss of a legendary musician and the father to one of the band members in a tribute on Thursday (August 28).
Chicago band member Walfredo Reyes Jr. shared in a statement on Thursday (August 28) that his father, Walfredo de los Reyes Sr., “passed away last night, surrounded by his loving wife, Debbie, my brother Danny, and my wife, Kirsten. …He was not only an incredible father, but also a mentor in music and in life. He will always live in my heart.”
Zac Brown Band honored Walfredo de los Reyes Sr. in a tribute on Thursday. The group wrote: “With heavy hearts, we share that Walfredo de los Reyes Sr., legendary percussionist and father of our brother Danny de los Reyes, has passed away at 92. His rhythm lives on through his family, including [Walfredo Reyes Jr.] and [Lilliana de los Reyes] and the countless musicians he inspired. We’re holding Danny and the entire Reyes family close in our hearts tonight. 💔”
Walfredo Reyes Jr. reflected on a quote from his late brother, actor Kamar de los Reyes, who died in December 2023 after a battle with cancer. He was 56. Walfredo Reyes Jr. said his late brother told him: “Don’t worry about me. I have lived a good life and I have been very blessed. I will live inside you, you can always find me in your heart.”
“With those words in my mind, I told my dad: ‘I will always find you in my heart. You will always live there,’” Walfredo Reyes Jr. said. “The love pouring in through texts, calls, and messages has been overwhelming, and my family and I are deeply grateful. My father was a teacher, an inspiration, and a light to countless percussionists, drummers, and musicians across the world. His spirit will always shine through my music, my drumming, my energy, and in everything I pass on to the next generation. …Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who has shared love, memories, and condolences with our family during this difficult time. His spirit, his rhythm will never stop.”