Joe Gonzales is a drummer, percussionist, teacher, writer, instrumentalist and father from Houston, Texas now residing in San Antonio. He is versed in a wide array of genres from Marching Percussion, African, Latin to Jazz.



A meticulous drummer, Joe Gonzales puts vital musical soul and technique reaching far beyond his instrument, contributing masterfully to each genre and music selection.



Joe Gonzales's work is greatly influenced by the styles, and teachings of Jose Diaz, Ndugu Chancler, Marvin Sparks and Fausto Cuevas to name a few. Joe credits these great teachers / percussionists / musicians as mentors.



Throughout his playing career thus far Joe Gonzales has managed to pick up 2 Latin Grammy awards with world-renowned La Mafia and three Gold Records with other artists. Joe has been drumming all his life. He played trap kit, and marching drums through his school years, accomplishing numerous awards including All State Jazz Band in High School and College.



When not out touring, Joe Gonzales fits teaching and team building sessions into his busy schedule. Currently he teaches for The Bulverde Music Academy and San Antonio Parks and Recreation. Joe's passion for drumming inspires him to do his part in the music world by helping others learn the art of percussion.



Joe Gonzales performs West African style on djembe as well as the double-headed drums known as the djun djuns consisting of a family of 3 pitches played on the keikini, sangbon and dunumba. With these drums Joe Gonzales travels throughout the United States doing team-building sessions for major corporations, and schools.



Previous and current bands include but are not limited to: four-time Grammy Award-winning musical group La Mafia, Oscar Cruz, The Pods, Unlock the Rhythm, Henry and the Latin Players, Jai Roots & the Herb-n-Café Project.



Joe Gonzales's total arsenal of office tools consist of Westone In Ear Monitors, Vic-Firth drumsticks, Audix Mics, All percussion equipment, Pearl drums, Sabian cymbals, and Roland Spds, and Spd-20 pad.