Gilberto S. Valdés (born May 21, 1905, in Jovellanos, Matanzas, Cuba – died May 12, 1972, in New York City) was a renowned Cuban music director and composer known for his contributions to the Afro-Cuban genre of popular music. Valdés was a pioneer in integrating African melodies, rhythms, and traditional themes into Cuban music. His work gained significant attention in 1935 when his compositions "Bembé," "Baró," "Tambó," and "Sangre africana" were performed by Rita Montaner at the Teatro Principal de la Comedia. In 1940, he presented a grand work titled "Tambó in negro mayor" at the Havana Amphitheater, featuring an all-city rumba group he assembled from various Havana neighborhoods. Valdés's discography includes works such as "Cuban ballet Orquesta de Cámara de Madrid dir. Gilberto Valdés" and "La música del maestro Gilberto Valdés – Con su orquesta." His influence in Cuban music is noted for making significant changes in its landscape, bringing Afro-Cuban elements to the forefront.