Jack Costanzo

American percussionist and bandleader. Born 24 September 1919 in Chicago, Illinois Died August 19, 2018 in California USA. Nicknamed “Mr. Bongo” for his role in making the instrument popular, almost starting a “bongo craze” as latin rhythms influenced jazz and pop following World War II. Originally a dancer, Costanzo visited Cuba several times to learn conga playing, before reportedly being the first bongo player to join a jazz band.