Juan de Marcos González and the Afro-Cuban All Stars
Juan de Marcos González was born in Havana in 1954 and grew up close to Cuban music. His father, Marcos González, sang with Arsenio Rodríguez, so that musical tradition was part of his world from an early age. In 1976, Juan de Marcos co-founded Sierra Maestra, beginning a long journey with Cuban son that would eventually lead to something much bigger.
Years later came the Afro-Cuban All Stars, a project built around bringing different generations of Cuban musicians together. Experienced musicians share the stage with younger players, each bringing their own sound and personality. The lineup may change, but that combination is an important part of the orchestra's identity.
The same happens with the music. The Cuban roots are always present, but there is also room to explore. Son, danzón, mambo, Afro-Cuban jazz and more contemporary Cuban sounds can all find a place. That mix has been part of the Afro-Cuban All Stars from the beginning.
And then there is Juan de Marcos as a bandleader.
Watching him direct the Afro-Cuban All Stars is probably what has impressed me the most. There is a real connection between him and the musicians. He is constantly listening, giving cues and reacting to what is happening around him. Sometimes a look or a small gesture is enough.
For me, there is a little bit of magic in that.
That combination of generations, different sides of Cuban music, and Juan de Marcos' direction is what gives the Afro-Cuban All Stars its identity.
Selected Discography
1997 — A Toda Cuba le Gusta
The first Afro-Cuban All Stars album, recorded in Havana in 1996 and released the following year.
1999 — Distinto, Diferente
A continuation of the project with an even broader approach to different generations and styles of Cuban music.
2000 — Baila Mi Son
Featuring Félix Baloy.
2002 — Bajando Gervasio
Featuring Amadito Valdés.
2004 — Live in Japan
Recorded live at Zepp Tokyo in 2002 and released in 2004.
2005 — Step Forward: The Next Generation
A new generation of musicians became an increasingly visible part of Juan de Marcos' concept for the orchestra.
2009 — Absolutely Live
A CD/DVD release bringing together live performances from Tokyo and the North Sea Jazz Festival in The Hague, where the Afro-Cuban All Stars performed on July 10, 2005.
2017 — Absolutely Live II: Viva México!
A later live chapter of the project, recorded in Mexico and released in 2017.
