Edmundo Ros, born Edmund William Ross on December 7, 1910, in Port of Spain, Trinidad, was a renowned Trinidadian-Venezuelan musician, vocalist, arranger, and bandleader. He passed away on October 21, 2011, in Alicante, Spain, at the age of 100. Ros was a pivotal figure in popularizing Latin American music in the United Kingdom, particularly during the post-war period.

Ros's early life was marked by his enrollment in a military academy after his parents separated. It was there that he developed an interest in music, learning to play the euphonium and percussion. At 17, he moved to Caracas, Venezuela, to study music under Vicente Emilio Sojo. He played drums in nightclubs and was a timpanist in the Venezuela Symphony Orchestra. In 1937, he moved to London to further his classical studies at the Royal Academy of Music, but soon transitioned to a career in popular music.

In 1940, Ros formed his own orchestra, Edmundo Ros and His Rumba Band, which quickly became a hit in London. His music attracted high society and even members of the royal family. He played at prestigious venues such as the Coconut Grove and the Bagatelle Restaurant, where a visit from Princess Elizabeth significantly boosted his fame. Ros was known for his innovative approach, blending traditional Latin rhythms with popular tunes, and his recordings were well-received.

In 1951, Ros purchased the Coconut Grove, renaming it the "Edmundo Ros Dinner and Supper Club," which became an exclusive venue frequented by notable figures. He was a favorite of the BBC, appearing on numerous variety shows and recording extensively with labels like Decca and London Records. His 1949 recording of "Wedding Samba" sold over 3 million copies and reached #16 on the U.S. charts.

Ros retired in 1975 and settled in Spain with his wife, Susan. In 2000, he was honored with an Order of the British Empire. His legacy is marked by his contributions to the popularity of Latin music in the UK and his influence on the genre worldwide.