On Saturday, October 5th, the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) had the honor of hosting Rey Mambo Baumel, a true Miami Beach legend, for an unforgettable lecture. The event marked the first in the 2024 Fall Lecture Series and was a fitting celebration of nearly a century of passion, culture, and creativity brought to life by Rey. If you missed it, you can watch the full lecture below.
A Life Intertwined with Miami Beach History
Rey Mambo Baumel, born Marvin Baumel, moved to Miami Beach in 1938 at just 13 years old. The city, barely two decades old at the time, became the backdrop for Rey’s remarkable life journey. A graduate of Miami Beach Senior High School, he was a standout student, excelling in art, drama, and English. While his early dreams of studying murals in Mexico were interrupted by World War II, his artistic spirit found new outlets during and after the war.
From the Warfront to the Dance Floor
Rey’s time in the Army during World War II introduced him to performance on a grand scale. As part of the “Khaki Caballeros” and a Puerto Rican War Department show, he played bongos for soldiers across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Upon returning to Miami Beach, his love for Latin music blossomed into a career when he formed a band and adopted the name “Rey Mambo,” inspired by a Cuban record titled El Rey del Mambo. It was supposed to be a weekend gig, but it became a lifelong identity.
Shaping the Soundtrack of Miami Beach
During the mid-20th century, Miami Beach was a hub for music, dance, and nightlife, and Rey was at its center. His Latin band brought energy and rhythm to iconic venues like the Beachcomber and Copa City, where tourists and locals danced to mambo, rumba, and cha-cha. His wife, a talented singer who learned to perform Spanish lyrics phonetically, often joined him on stage, creating unforgettable performances.
Rey’s career adapted as music trends evolved, with Latin music briefly overshadowed by the rise of rock and roll before being revitalized by Miami’s Cuban community in the 1960s. Rey’s ability to bridge cultures through music played a key role in the city’s unique soundscape.
Beyond Music: Acting, Comedy, and Cultural Advocacy
Rey’s talents extended far beyond the stage. He appeared in films like Tony Rome and Lady in Cement alongside Frank Sinatra, contributed to TV shows like the Jackie Gleason Show, and toured the Playboy Club circuit as a stand-up comedian. His humor and storytelling added a personal touch to his lecture, captivating the audience with anecdotes about sharing stages with legends like Tony Bennett, Louis Armstrong, and Josephine Baker.
He also became an active voice in preserving Miami Beach’s cultural history, recalling his firsthand experiences witnessing Art Deco landmarks rise and the evolution of its vibrant communities.
A Heartfelt Celebration
The City of Miami Beach honored Rey with a proclamation of “Rey Mambo Baumel Day,” a surprise announced during the lecture. The audience, including his family and longtime fans, applauded this well-deserved recognition. Rey’s storytelling transported attendees back in time, offering a glimpse into the golden era of Miami Beach nightlife and entertainment.
Why Rey’s Story Matters
Rey’s life is more than a personal journey; it’s a testament to the transformative power of art, music, and community. His experiences reflect the spirit of Miami Beach—a melting pot of cultures, creativity, and resilience. By sharing his story, Rey inspires us to celebrate the past while continuing to shape the future.
