Gumbi Ortiz

Gumbi Ortiz (born October 13, 1955) pronounced “Goom-bee,” is an American percussionist, composer, producer, and music educator.

For over 35 years, he has been the go-to percussionist and right-hand man for fusion guitarist Al Di Meola, accompanying him on solo shows and playing on various records, in various bands.

Saxophonists Eric Marienthal and Brandon Fields, keyboardist Jeff Lorber, and drummer Dave Weckl also play on it.

Ortiz’s compositions draw from a wealth of styles, reflecting his Afro-Cuban roots, Latin rhythms, and even a touch of what he calls "Herbie Hancock funk."

[1] In his late teen years, he recalls hearing Return to Forever (the jazz band with Di Meola on guitar and Chick Corea on keyboards), which inspired him to change direction.

In 2008 Di Meola and the Hungarian flute player Eszter Horgas played together in Hungary to perform the remake of Bizet's Carmen.

The concept for the Allen Carman Project began developing when the two musicians happened to do a gig together in 2015, when they discussed Ortiz's work with keyboardist and composer Philippe Saisse.

Its debut album Carmanology has contributions from musicians such as Marc Antoine, Rick Braun, Nile Rodgers, Andy Snitzer, and Don Harrison.