John Treanor

Austin, Texas drummer and washboard player, commonly known as Mambo John or Mambo Johnny. He was born in San Antonio, Texas, in 1953 and began playing drums in high school. He moved to Austin in 1971 to enroll in the University of Texas’ jazz program. Treanor began as a jazz drummer, playing with 47 Times Its Own Weight and Mambo's Combo, before moving into salsa with Beto y los Fairlanes and rock & roll with The Vanguards. He was also known for playing roots rock, blues, R&B, and reggae. Imprisoned on drug charges in 1990, Treanor returned to Austin and continued to play music after his release. Treanor passed away from cancer in Austin on August 20, 2001, age 48.