Martin Cantu & L-Rey

Introducing Martin Cantu & L-Rey (pronounced "El Rey") —a name that means "The King of Kings and Lord of Lords," representing the heart and purpose of the band.

L-Rey is a Latin-Pop contemporary Christian band whose vibrant music transcends borders, denominations, and generations. Their sound has been described as an electrifying fusion—imagine Santana meets Earth, Wind & Fire, creating an unforgettable musical experience that uplifts the soul and moves the spirit.

Martin Cantu, the powerhouse lead vocalist of L-Rey, is no stranger to the spotlight. He is the former frontman of the iconic Latin Rock band Malo, best known for the timeless hit "Suavecito." From 1993 to 1997, Martin wrote, recorded, and toured with Malo, helping to shape the band’s legendary legacy.

Together, Martin Cantu and L-Rey have shared stages and ministered alongside a diverse roster of renowned artists and speakers including Mandisa, Seventh Day Slumber, Toby Keith, Israel & New Breed, Christafari, Third Day, Evangelist Nicky Cruz, Stephen Baldwin, and Joyce Meyer—just to name a few.

To date, Martin Cantu and L-Rey have released more than four powerful CDs, with their latest album just released this year—continuing their mission to inspire, uplift, and reach hearts around the world.

Martin’s Testimony:

In 1997, while on tour in Colorado, Martin experienced a life-altering moment—he overdosed while smoking crack cocaine. But in a miraculous turn, he was revived by the breath of God and encountered a divine calling after watching a televised sermon by world-renowned evangelist Joyce Meyer. That moment marked a turning point, and Martin made the decision to pick up his cross and fully surrender to God’s purpose for his life. (Click the video link below to watch the powerful interview with Joyce Meyer and Martin.)

In 2015, Martin Cantu was ordained as a pastor, and today he serves as the Senior Pastor of Praise Worship Center in Hercules, California. When he’s not ministering at his home church, Pastor Martin travels across the nation—either with his wife, Lani, as a dynamic ministry team, or alongside L-Rey—sharing his life-changing testimony, original music, and the message of God’s love, faith, and hope.