The 411
Valentino Maltos – The Professional Perfectionist
Valentino Maltos is a multi-GRAMMY-winning and nominated saxophonist and music producer known for his expressive phrasing, technical mastery, and signature sound. Humble by nature, he lets his music speak for itself. With over two decades in the industry, he is a first-call musician for top artists across jazz, R&B, and hip-hop.
As a producer, Valentino blends analog warmth with modern innovation, crafting music that resonates deeply. 14x GRAMMY-winning producer Gilbert Velasquez sums it up:
"Valentino is so easy to work with. His energy and vibe made the creativity flow the entire session. Time passed so quickly, and we ended up with this incredible performance—it was effortless!"
For Valentino, music isn’t about trends—it’s about authenticity.
"Music is my passion, and the saxophone is my voice. My music is the soundtrack of my life: the joy, the pain, the love, and the loss."
The Journey
Valentino picked up the saxophone at 11 and was performing in his family’s band by 12. After studying jazz performance at the University of Northern Colorado, he honed his craft in Oakland before settling in Texas, where his recording career took off.
As the first-call saxophonist for 14x GRAMMY-winning producer Gilbert Velasquez, he has recorded hundreds of songs, solidifying his place in the industry. In 2014, he co-founded Fat Stack Horns with trumpeter Lio Saenz III, creating a signature horn sound that led to collaborations with Donnie McClurkin, Tamela Mann, Fred Hammond, Kim Burrell, Bobby Sparks, and more.
Beyond Fat Stack Horns, Valentino has recorded with Calle 13, Kumbia Kings, Jay Perez, David Lee Garza y Los Musicales, Flaco Jimenez, and numerous independent artists. He is also a sought-after live performer, currently the lead saxophonist for the Drywater Band, with performance credits including Erykah Badu, Snoop Dogg, Dave Chappelle, Frederic Yonnet, and more.
In 2022, Valentino released his debut solo album, Analog Future, to critical acclaim. Featured in a UK vinyl campaign, the album includes performances from drummer Nate Smith (Vulfpeck), keyboardist Bobby Sparks (Snarky Puppy), and keyboardist Stephen Freeman (Mary J. Blige).
For all he has accomplished, Valentino believes his best is still ahead.
And if history is any indication, he’s absolutely right.
