The year was 1957 and the big horn bands were
blasting their way through the dance halls. Mr.
Jack Costanzo was born September 1919. In
the 1940's he had went to Havana a couple of
times and was taught how to play the Bongos
and the Congas.
Working as a dance instructor at the Beverly Hills Hotel Mr. Costanzo got the chance to show his
skills to band leader Bobby Ramos. Mr. Ramos
offered him a job and Costanzo was off and
running.
During those years Costanzo played with the Lecuona Cuban Boys, Desi Arnez and the Rene Touzet band. The gigs just kept coming and through the 1940's into the 1950's Constanzo played with top acts like Perez Prado, Betty Grable, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Tony Curtis, Marlon Brando, Vic Damone, Eddie Fisher and many more.
Jack played with Nat King Cole from 1949 to 1953. Later on in the 50's Costanzo formed his own band and toured playing his Latin beats and many Hollywood actors and acts followed. Many great albums were recorded.
The Bongo kid was now Mr. Bongo. Jack has played in over 17 movies and recorded over 18 albums.
Mr. Costanzo is now 94 and still going strong!!!!!!
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