Latin Jazz Bassist Andy González Dies in the Bronx

Andy González, Latin legend of the double bass, died in New York City on Thursday, April 9, 2020 from complications of a pre-existing disease.

González was born on January 1, 1951 in the Bronx of Puerto Rican ancestry. He was a highly-respected bass player, similar to the likes of Israel “Cachao” Lopez (Cuba), known for his great influence with the bass in Latin Jazz.

I spoke to Andy many moons ago, and we were discussing the change from cat gut strings to the new modern strings, and gave me great advice. I asked him if it was difficult to take the double bass around? He told me that it was very difficult and he much preferred to carry the electric bass to the gig since it was more portable, but he preferred the sound of the acoustic bass. He said that he had to get rid of the electric bass so that he would not use it.

His legendary brother, Jerry González, a renowned conga player and Latin Jazz trumpet player, resided in Spain until his passing and kept in touch with me on a regular basis till he passed. Both he and Andy were the powerhouse of the Latin Scene in New York City with Grupo Folklórico y Experimental Nuevayorquino. Andy González also performed with many many more artists (The Fort Apache Group, Dizzy Gillespie, Tito Puente, Eddie Palmieri, Kip Hanrahan, and Astor Piazzolla) and especially with Manny Oquendos’ Conjunto Libre till Manny’s passing.

There were two Grupo Folklórico y Experimental Nuevayorquinos; the first one recorded classic recordings and another recently with Tony Rosas on congas.

Andy left a prodigy of a student that carries on his legacy: bassist Luques Curtis, who is currently performing worldwide with piano legend Eddie Palmier. Luques’ brother, pianist Zaccai Curtis, performs jazz with Luques in New York City for events.

Our deep condolences to the González family in NYC, our payers are with you.

Author: Les Moncada

Les Moncada is a former Latin Jazz orchestra leader and conguero for over 40 years. He was born in Oakland, California and currently resides in Sacramento, California. Les Moncada was an apprentice to conga and batá master Francisco Aguabella, a friend of vibraphonist Cal Tjader, Latin Jazz band leader Pete Escovedo, conguero Armando Peraza and many more. He has been writing for many years for World Music Central. Les Moncada’s Facebook site is: Timbales and Congas Bongo Bata and bells.