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Jack Costanzo

A premier percussionist and one of the few to emphasize bongos over congas, Jack Costanzo taught himself both bongos and congas, and made three visits to Havana in the '40s to learn Afro-Cuban rhythms.

He toured and performed with Stan Kenton in 1947 and 1948, then worked with Nat King Cole from 1949 to 1953. Costanzo continued to periodically play with both Cole and Kenton through the '50s, working with Kenton until 1957 while also heading out his own. This group recorded in 1954 and 1957, later touring London in 1961.

Costanzo also worked in the '50s with Peggy Lee, Pérez Prado, Harry James, Charlie Barnet, and Pete Rugolo. Costanzo kept a relatively low profile during the latter decades of the 20th century, but made a comeback in the late '90s.

His return-to-form album "Back from Havana" was released in 2001 followed by "Scorching the Skins" in 2002 (both on Cubop Records). "Chicken and Rice" was issued by GNP/Crescendo in 2006.

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151
Album Review

Jack Costanzo: Back From Havana

Read "Back From Havana" reviewed by Jim Santella


After 25 years away from the spotlight, Jack Costanzo has returned. His album features an exciting band -around 10 pieces for the most part -performing intense Afro-Cuban arrangements. Chicago native Costanzo, whose ancestry is Sicilian, has lived in Southern California since his discharge from the U.S. Navy at the end of World War II. Two years with Stan Kenton and five with Nat King Cole led to studio work, significant television and motion picture projects, and live performances as a ...

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1

Obituary

Jack Costanzo (1919-2018)

Jack Costanzo (1919-2018)

Source: JazzWax by Marc Myers

Jack Costanzo, whose fierce bongo playing added drama and heat to hundreds of recordings and performances by jazz, pop and Latin artists starting in the late 1940s before moving on the TV and film, died August 18. He was 98. Costanzo wasn't the first to record jazz on the bongos. The instrument first appeared on Latin 78s as early as 1925 and on Afro-Cuban recordings by Machito in 1941. He also wasn't the first to record on the bongos in ...

1

Obituary

Jack Costanzo, 1920-2018

Jack Costanzo, 1920-2018

Source: Rifftides by Doug Ramsey

The percussionist Jack Costanzo was so closely identified with his instrument that early in his career he became known as “Mr. Bongo.” Costanzo died over the weekend at his home near San Diego, California. He was 98. During his long career he worked with Stan Kenton, Nat Cole, Charlie Parker and dozens of other musical stars. He was frequently featured in motion pictures and television programs in duets with celebrities including dancer Ann Miller, singer Judy Garland and actor Marlon ...

103

Video / DVD

Weekly Latin Jazz Video Fix: Jack Costanzo

Weekly Latin Jazz Video Fix: Jack Costanzo

Source: The Latin Jazz Corner by Chip Boaz

Many people have contributed toward the spread of Latin Jazz around the world, pushing the music into the public through a variety of means. Some people have taken a challenging path, sticking steadfastly to their roots, taking their music to the public as a cultural expression. These artists keep the history of the music alive, but often wait many years to find widespread acceptance. Other musicians act as entertainers, connecting with the general public on their level, making Latin music ...

218

Performance / Tour

Jack Costanzo is "Caught in the Act" Again in Frances Faye Tribute!

Jack Costanzo is "Caught in the Act" Again in Frances Faye Tribute!

Source: Mulligan Productions LLC

Award-winning vocalist, TERESE GENECCO, releases her debut CD, “Drunk With Love: A Tribute To Frances Faye!" at M Bar & Restaurant in Hollywood, California, on Thursday, August 30, 2007 at 8PM, featuring “Mr. Bongo," Jack Costanzo, on Latin percussion, with her 7-piece *little big band.* 50 years ago, nightclub star Frances Faye recorded her live LP, “Caught In The Act," featuring The Jack Costanzo Band, at The Crescendo, a former nightclub on Sunset Blvd in Hollywood, ...

Paul Abella
percussion

Photos

Music

Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson

Mr. Bongo Has Brass

Strand Records
2013

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Latin Fever

Strand Records
2003

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Latin Percussion With...

Strand Records
2003

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Rewind 12"

Strand Records
2002

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Scorching The Skins

Unknown label
2002

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Videos

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