The Mambo Jazz Kings: Non-stop party since 1983!
For over 40 years, the Mambo Jazz Kings have been bringing high-energy funk, soul, and Latin beats to dance floors everywhere. From Earth, Wind & Fire to Miami Sound Machine, their electrifying sound keeps crowds grooving all night!
With ten incredible musicians and powerhouse vocalists, the Mambo Jazz Kings create a non-stop party experience. Their tight rhythm section and explosive horn ensemble keep the energy high and the grooves tight.
Founded by Art Lopez, the band blends top-tier talent with unbeatable chemistry. Their motto? "Have Soul, Will Travel!" They’ve headlined Galveston! Mardi Gras, Houston’s International Festival, and The Power of Houston Festival, plus local hotspots in Galveston, Clear Lake, Kemah, and Houston.
The band’s roadie, John “Bono” Thompson, took the time in-between sets at the Yaga’s Chili Quest and Beer Fest to chat with Humans of Galveston. Here's what he had to say:
Humans of Galveston: Tell us a little about yourself.
Bono: Hey, I'm John Thompson, but they call me Bono. I'm from Galveston, Texas.
Humans of Galveston: How long have you been with the Mambo Jazz Kings and what is your role with the band?
Bono: I've been with Mambo Jazz Kings since 1975. We've been together for 43 years. I’m the band’s roadie, making sure all the equipment gets there and is set up, so when the band arrives, they just have to play.
Humans of Galveston: Who has been the glue that keeps the band together?
Bono: Probably Art, the band leader. His full name is Arturo Lopez and he plays the rhythm guitar.
Humans of Galveston: Tell us about the band. Who are they and how long have they been with the Mambo Jazz Kings?
Bono: We have an eleven-piece band, and we jam every weekend. Here’s our awesome line-up:
Roger Laws – Vocalist
Wendy Lee (Stormy) – Vocalist
Shamona Anderson – Vocalist (formerly with the band, now back)
Craig – Trombone player (with us for about 10 years)
Brad – Trombone player (with the band for 10 years)
Teddy – Horn player (from New Orleans, with the band for a couple of years)
Ron Davis – Keyboardist (from Houston)
Jim Hilton – Drummer (currently out, but he'll be back)
Tim Tompkins – Bass player (with the band for 6-7 years)
Fritz Sheridan – Lead guitarist
Art Lopez – Rhythm guitarist and band leader
Humans of Galveston: What has been the key to the band's success?
Bono: Just getting our name out there and playing. People know us, but we want to be bigger and do more.
Humans of Galveston: How does it feel to carry on the legacy of the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s?
Bono: We’ll do it until we can’t do it anymore.
Humans of Galveston: What makes this band special for you?
Bono: I like these guys. They're fantastic musicians and we all get along great. I couldn't ask for a better group.
Humans of Galveston: How can we find you on the web?
Bono: You can check us out at mambojazzkingslive.
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