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North America

Manny Cruz and Daniel Santacruz in Forbes magazine

Both artists are on the “most creative” list of the prestigious magazine

The Dominican Republic edition of the prestigious Forbes magazine has put Manny Cruz and Daniel Santacruz on the cover. There is an article dedicated to both of them as “the most creative in the region”.

In the article we see many compliments towards both brothers, where they highlight how much Manny’s lyrics have meant for the audiences, saying that little by little he has become “one of the main exponents of the new merengue generation”, something that is easy to say, but that has been a difficult achievement to reach. The magazine also summarizes the artistic career of the Dominican, highlighting the most important moments of his career, such as the beginning of this, as well as the most impressive goals he has achieved over the years.

On the other hand, his brother Daniel received a lot of compliments too, to get an idea, we just need to know that the article describes him as “the world ambassador of bachata”, a title that he has earned through the years. The singer has crossed all kinds of borders, becoming a highly recognized artist internationally.

In addition to these talented brothers review, we can also perceive how excited both artists are when reading their words about their new single together, which, although at the moment the exact month of the release is not known, the American has made it clear that it will come out early next year, so the followers of both are waiting for the news on this promising song.

Manny Cruz and Daniel Santacruz
Manny Cruz and Daniel Santacruz in the prestigious Forbes magazine

The 2020 of the brothers

Without a doubt, 2020 has been one of the most unpredictable years in recent times, and there is no wonder why, with a threatening pandemic that has been around since the end of 2019, the complications for all have been many, and artists are no exception. However, the inconveniences that have arisen have not been enough to stop the success of these two singers.

Manny Cruz has said in interviews that he is very happy with the commercial impact that this year has had, making it clear that the success of his songs in countries like Venezuela makes his heart overflow with joy. Regarding his success, he also said that he has always dreamed big, and pointed out the importance of setting clear goals to achieve. On the other hand, Daniel Santacruz has been genuinely happy to get the prestigious “Latin Grammy” for best merengue and / or bachata album, a goal that countless artists dream of reaching.

They come with the best vibes for this new year, also with very ambitious projects in which they are putting all their hearts.

Despite how strange the situation was in 2020, both artists have had very good moments, which makes us think that 2021 can be even better, not only because of the promising song they made together, but also because everything seems to indicate that their careers will not stop progressing in a positive way.

Tito Rojas passes away at 65 years of age

Tito Rojas, The Puerto Rican artist passed away this December 26

The bad news in 2020 does not stop coming, after a hard year full of unfortunate events, a few days before the year ends, Julio César Rojas López, better known as Tito Rojas, died this Saturday, December 26. His death was confirmed by both the authorities of Puerto Rico and the statements of his daughter Jessica Rojas.

According to the testimonies given, the relatives of the salsa singer found his lifeless body on the balcony of his residence in Tejas de Humacao, a municipality of Puerto Rico, subsequently, they called 911 to report his unfortunate death. Although everything seems to indicate that the cause of death was a heart attack, it has not yet been confirmed by the doctors in charge of carrying out the autopsy, however, it is expected that such confirmation will come in the next few days.

The news came as a surprise to everyone, especially because a few days before this horrible news, he offered a virtual show for all his fans, and he seemed to be in good health, so the unfortunate news has caused a great impact.

“El gallo de la salsa”, as he (Tito Rojas) was known internationally, lived 65 years, and his music has inspired many artists of the salsa genre, who have had him as a reference. As expected, great Latin American artists have spoken about it through social media.

Tito Rojas dies
Tito Rojas passes away on december 26.

Artists share their thoughts about the singer’s death

The salsa singer Tony Vega shared a photo of Tito Rojas and accompanied it with the following words: “A colleague, a friend, today we mourn his departure, but we will always carry him in our hearts.” On the other hand, Gilberto Santa Rosa also offered a message full of emotions through his Facebook and Twitter accounts: “I still can’t believe it… my dear Gallo. We will miss you and remember you in each song, in each saying and in each gesture of affection and companionship that you left. Rest in peace, my friend Tito”. Tito Rojas had participated in the new production of his compatriot Gilberto Santa Rosa, specifically in the song “Por la calle del medio”.

Other artists who have also expressed their condolences have been: Don Omar, Bad Bunny, Tito Nieves, Victor Manuelle, among many others; On the other hand, Tito’s have been such an important figure than even other well-known faces outside of the music industry also publicly lamented his death. Pedro Pierluisi and Wanda Vázquez, both governors of Puerto Rico, also share their sadness through their social media accounts.

Social networks continue to be filled with moving messages, as well as memories and anecdotes related to “El gallo de la salsa”, and due to the importance that Tito has had in the industry, this is certainly expected. After a long career full of successes, the interpreter of songs such as “Siempre seré”, “Señora de madrugada”, ” “Ella se hizo deseo” and many others, will be remembered as one of the greatest exponents of the salsa genre, his music to this day continues to inspire both veterans and emerging talents.

 

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Marlow Rosado talks about his two new recordings and contribution to music

Marlow Rosado “The Dalí of music” as he is known, closes the year talking about his latest productions and what is coming this 2021.

Marlow Rosado, is a Puerto Rican pianist who has made his way into the salsa genre. A very versatile and creative artist, he has been one of the lucky Latinos to be a Latin Grammy winner. He is an arranger, composer and conductor, his style delves into fusions of Latin jazz and Afro-Cuban traditions. However, he does not hesitate to reinvent himself after each musical production, without losing the flavor that has become his personal hallmark. He leans for the aggressive but fresh and modern rhythm. In addition, he is recognized for his quality productions.

Marlow Rosado talks about his two new recordings
Marlow is a Grammy winner.

“Before the issue of the pandemic, I had released an album … ‘Feminomanía’ a project where the voices are female. The musical production was at its peak, the pandemic arrived and everything came to a standstill, “said the Puerto Rican established in Miami city.

The project concentrated the diversity of different singers of the genre, among them: Carolina La O, Michelle Brava, Brenda K Starr and Aymee Nuviola. In addition, it has 13 songs and the musical participation of Marlow.

Rosado, was one of those artists who took advantage of the global pandemic to the fullest and decided not to lock themselves in apathy. During 2020, he performed two songs that marked his year. They are completely different but were made with the same love and dedication: one of salsa and another of Latin jazz.

Faced with the paralysis of activities worldwide, Marlow opted to enter the recording studio and give life to new productions.

“I went into the studio to produce another album and I started working on two at the same time. From the beginning, he had spoken with singer Frankie Negrón to do a salsa production. The album is called ‘Los colores de la salsa’ in allusion to our surnames Rosado and Negrón. Frankie recently moved to Miami, which made recording easy”, said Rosado.

The artist served as the composer of all the songs, as well as the musical arrangements.

“In the production ‘Los colores de la salsa’ there is a song called ‘Boricuas en Nueva York’ that has that Christmas air and we wanted to release it now to create an energy around those two albums that are coming in February” he added.

“Boricuas en Nueva York” with Frankie Negrón, was distributed under the JN Music Group label. The song has a Puerto Rican salsa rhythm, along with the voices of both singers who emigrated from Puerto Rico to the United States. Rosado was very pleased to work together with Negrón and to give this suitable theme for Christmas.

Marlow Rosado talks about his two new recordings
Marlow Rosado and Frankie Negron.

“Orun” is the following record production, made within the Latin jazz genre and very different from “Los Colores de la Salsa”. With this job he fulfilled a dream he had always had.

“I had always wanted to make a Latin jazz record. I’m a good jazz player and a fan of Edddie Palmieri. I love the career he has made linking salsa and latin jazz at the same time. I made the two albums, I presented them in JN Music Group, they liked them and they quickly told me we want to release them. Both will go on the market in February 2021 ”, said the artist.

The album featured the collaboration of Cuban-born pianist Chucho Valdés and saxophonist Ed Calle. For some, betting on new releases amid the global pandemic was a challenge. However, Rosado took it with good energy and believes that it is not impossible to give them the boost he wants.

“Who knows what happens. Sometimes you make an album at the best times and under the best circumstances and nothing happens. I am positive. I did these two projects in difficult times and look, I got them signed for me. So far I have managed to make the records and have the production company put them out… things that maybe under regular circumstances would not have achieved. We are going to think that this pandemic has come with the happiness that I have been able to make these two albums and that they are going to continue with the push they have been doing so far “, said the musician

Marlow has worked with the best of the industry. He created a song for Yolandita Monge (“Sentimiento Borinqueño”), he has participated in productions by Alejandra Guzmán, Ricky Martin, El Gran Combo, Elvis Crespo, the Puerto Rican Power orchestra, among others. He has also worked with Celia Cruz, Selena, Ricardo Montaner, Olga Tañón, and many more.

Marlow Rosado’s Biography

Marlow Rosado was born and raised in Cataño, in the central area of ​​San Juan in Puerto Rico. Later, he moved to the state of Florida, where he trained in the musical field. He studied up to a master’s degree in jazz.

Rosado is very dear to the children who have known him. In fact, he taught in elementary schools, sharing his passion for music with new generations. His first big break came from being able to work alongside Desmond Child, an American producer and songwriter who has been associated with renowned bands like Aerosmith, Bon Jovi and Kiss. A big leap in his career!

He is the typical Latino who loves his country, and grew up surrounded by his origins. Salsa accompanied him throughout his life. Before he was 10 years old, he was given an electronic organ and it was at that moment that everything changed for him.

He has won two Grammys, an achievement that fills him with great pride.

Marlow Rosado talks about his two new recordings
Marlow and one of his Grammys.

“The Grammys are my before and after in my career. They have given me the right to say: Look, I am right. I have always had my mind outside of what is commercial, making the music that I want to do. The Grammys have given me the right to know that I was right… where my music is going”, he said.

In 2009, together with his orchestra La Riqueña, he recorded his first album known as “Salsalsa”. For Marlow, the team he had was of another level: “The best musicians.” Then, in 2012 came “Retro”, along with his first Grammy Award; “Salsanimal” in 2014; “Harlow Marlow, volume 1” in 2016; and “Feminomanía”.

Harlow Marlow, Vol. 1 mixed elegant style with modern elements and salsa brava. The album was a tribute to his friend Harlow.

“I have a very special respect and affection for Larry Harlow. I have known him for many years. I have worked with him many times. When he came to Miami to play, I put the orchestra together for him. I have an unforgettable memory when I played the Hommy Opera at Lincoln Center. Larry conducted and I played the piano. For me it was an honor. One of the best gifts I have ever received was from him. He gave me the piano that looks like a guitar and I keep it in my studio with great pride. The connection with him is something special ”.

Marlow Rosado talks about his two new recordings
“The Dalí of music” as he is known.

Salsa is its flag and it will continue to innovate within it. Marlow’s career continues to climb. A pianist who has been called “The Dalí of music” because his hands become brushes when he plays the piano, just like the painter’s canvases. Marlow leaves his mark and will continue to give something to talk about. We have no doubts about it!

 

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Where the idea of the name of the Fania Record label came from

October 2020

Jerry Masucci and Johnny Pacheco

 

Genaro Masucci, known as Jerry Masucci and Juan Azarías Pacheco Kiniping, known as Johnny Pacheco
Jerry Masucci and Johnny Pacheco

Where the idea of Genaro Masucci, known as Jerry Masucci ((Brooklyn, New York, Oct. 7, 1934 -Argentina Dec. 21, 1997)) and Juan Azarías Pacheco Kiniping, known as Johnny Pacheco ((Santiago, Dominican Republic, Mar. 25, 1935)) to give the title to the record label “Fania” arose.

The name was taken from the old Cuban son: “Fania”, which was successfully performed by the Conjunto Estrellas de Chocolate and composed by Reinaldo Bolaños.

The lyrics present a syncretism between the Spanish and African languages.

 

Chocolate Stars Set
Chocolate Stars Set

Members of the Conjunto Estrellas De Chocolate.

Theme: Fania

Author: Reinaldo Bolaños

Voice: Filiberto Hernández Fuentes

Voice: Chinese Lion Lahera Wilson

Voice: Agustín Cabrera .

Three: Andrés “Nino Rivera” Echevarría

Bass guitar: Sergio De Cuba

Bongos: “Pichi”

Piano: David Palomares

Trumpet: Armando “El Gorilla” Albertini

Felix “Chocolate” Alfonso was not afraid to put together and lead an ensemble in the style of Arsenio and Chappottín in 1959. The ensemble format was part of the medium in which he swam like a fish in water.

He knew the best montuneros musicians and called them together. The good ensembles still retained the favor of part of the public.

Jesús Gorís, the architect of the Puchito label, didn’t think twice about it and recorded them right away.

Victrolas in bars and bodegas all over the island began to spread the son montuno macho of Las Estrellas de Chocolate.

But the 1960s in Cuba were too strong, diverse and creative, and the good work of Chocolate with its stars had to deal with a scene that was too competitive for a novel ensemble.

As often happens, it took several years for the Chocolate Stars to finally shine as stars and be on everyone’s lips.

was recorded in the voice of Pedro Juan Rodríguez Ferrer "Pete" El Conde Rodríguez
“My New Tumbao Cañonazo”

Fania, although composed by Reinaldo Bolaños for Conjunto Estrellas de Chocolate, was recorded on the voice of Pedro Juan Rodríguez Ferrer “Pete” El Conde Rodríguez (Ponce, Puerto Rico, Jan. 31, 1933 – Dec. 2, 2000); who along with Pacheco’s group recorded the company’s first album entitled “Mi Nuevo Tumbao. Cañonazo”, with a majority of Cuban songs, like most of the albums recorded by Pacheco and many of those recorded by that label.

In 1964 Jhonny Pacheco and Jerry Massucci founded Fania Records and created the international and renowned Fania All Stars.

Pete was the first singer that Fania had, and on his shoulders was the responsibility of taking that project forward.

In the first Fania album Cañonazo (1964) Pete interpreted the theme Fania, composition of Reinaldo Bolanos and with which the band was inaugurated.

It is 1964 and the history of Latin music is about to change.

The Dominican flutist Johnny Pacheco, one of the most popular Latin artists in New York, has parked his flute, changed his orchestra and recorded an album, “Mi Nuevo Tumbao…Cañonazo”.

It’s a curious recording, although it doesn’t seem special.

It sounds like a somewhat modernized Sonora Matancera. But it has been released under a new label, Fania Records, which he has just founded in partnership with New York lawyer Jerry Masucci.

And what was only meant to be a start to relaunch and boost Pacheco’s career is out of the hands of both of them and becomes a phenomenon.

Fania All Stars

Additional information:

The name of one of the most important record labels in Latin America and the world All comes from a song by Cuban Reinaldo Bolaños called Fanía, which refers to a story about a woman whose name was Epifanía and her mentally challenged son.

The story goes that in the middle of a fight between the two, she threw flour (funche as it is called in the Caribbean) in her son’s face and he responded “Fania Funché”.

Bolaños liked the story very much, as did the founders of the record company Jerry Masuci and Jhonny Pacheco, who decided to name their music company after her and include the song in the first album produced.

With the passage of time, they stopped pronouncing the tilde on the “i” and started calling it Fania, without an accent.

Research sources:

Thomas Muriel (Puerto Rico)

www.gladyspalmera.com

 

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ROX’s new single “Cristal”

Cristal is dedicated to those strong women

“Composing is a magical process”, said a Venezuelan living in the United States that puts the name of her country very high. She is a multifaceted artist and this time presents her new single “Cristal”.

Roxana Frontini, her real name, known in the industry as “Rox”, unveils her new song: “Cristal”, inspired and dedicated to “all the queens of the world”, as its description dictates. Frontini wanted to consciously empower women and honor what they stand for. The song is within the Latin genre and has a very powerful message: “No one can stop her” is one of the phrases she mentions there, referring to “the glass woman.”

“Cristal” had the voice, melody and authorship of the artist, while the production and arrangements were in charge of Arturo Cabrera. The music video was directed by Nestor Cabrera. Since the beginning of December, it has been available on digital platforms. The positive comments have been increasing, as well as the support of her colleagues and followers; the views on YouTube exceed the 100 thousand.

“Cristal is a celebration of the Queen that each woman carries inside, whatever the path we have chosen, we all fulfill an essential role that contributes to the development of our society. The mother, the daughter, the sister, the cousin, the grandmother, the friend… We all matter”, stated the businesswoman.

In the music video, different women can be seen in their facets of everyday life as mothers and workers. This is the first song she has done in Spanish, and she hopes to release its English version soon.

“Our stories are full of challenges and victories that make us precious, like crystal. In each one of us there is a warrior, a friend, a teacher, an angel, and a queen. It is my greatest wish that by singing and dancing this song, each woman connects with her value, and together we shine more. This goes to my beloved, respected and admired Crystal Women all over the World!”

In the music video she wanted to reflect the process she went through while creating the song. She sought to stay fresh, natural, with little makeup, and everyday wardrobe. For this reason, she added some shots in her gym look, very constant in times of pandemic. With the phrase “This song is for each of you because we are all queens and together we shine more”, ends the credits of the music video.

“Part of the song came out one day exercising on my balcony (because we were in full lockdown); minutes before I had had a long conversation with my mother where we covered her life trajectory, and all the things she has overcome including cancer. Then, when the first part of the song was ready, I started working on a new fine art series called Reinas; this series shows very different women, all with something in common, Modern Crowns: hats of different styles, colors and sizes that symbolize the originality of each one. As this series began, the missing piece of Cristal emerged with total fluidity. Every time I sat down to work on the art pieces, it was like the information for Cristal was downloaded to me”

The work was made up of enterprising women who have obtained great merits in different areas: Almudena Álvarez, lawyer, LL.M, partner at Álvarez Lentner; Gisela Morichetti, Visual Communication designer; Lisset Galeyev, photographer, owner of Lisset Galeyev Photography; also Liz Nieves, fashion designer, owner of Ilogear Active & Dance Wear; and Ethel Schutz, Christian, faith leader, and the woman who taught Frontini to paint. All brilliant and worthy of admiration.

Rox is presenting her new single Cristal
Roxana Frontini better known as ROX.

ROX’s Biography

Rox is Venezuelan, born in Caracas and who has made her way internationally. She is an artist, a businesswoman, and has led projects in different areas. She has a very solid career in different aspects. She founded FashionCurators.com, a business that seeks to provide opportunities for stores, brands, and designers to broaden their horizons, and gain a further scope. She has combined her role as an artist and a businesswoman. She writes, paints, dances tango, sings, designs, creates content, and runs businesses. In fact, she has a personal blog. She has done volunteer work, is an expert in marketing and the digital area. A Crystal woman!

The singer began her musical career from a very young age. Her first steps were at the Juan José Landaeta National Conservatory, in her native Caracas. From the age of 15, she composed and collaborated with renowned artists signed by Sony Music. In addition, she is the daughter of a long-time musician, a member of the Fenix ​​Jazz Band, in Argentina. On many occasions, she accompanied him in his presentations, and learned many tips that she then put into practice, in addition to obtaining greater ease in the industry.

At the age of 17, she started in pop-rock covering songs by some greats of the genre and her favorite singers such as: Shakira, Soda Stereo, Fito Páez, The Police, Alanis Morisette, and No Doubt.

At an artistic level, she stands out for her beautiful pieces, inspired for the most part by the femininity that characterizes her so much. Elegant and very subtle pictures and illustrations. It also offers cell phone accessories, clothing, and details for home decoration. Frontini has other musical singles to her credit in English and Spanish. It fuses elements of pop, electro pop, and Latin music “Oasis”, “Your Groove”, “Better Choices”, among others.

She is one of the most renowned Latin exponents in the United States, and has achieved success in Europe, and Latin America. She has struggled to be successful and overcome life’s obstacles; among them, she had to recover from a facial paralysis that changed her perspective but gave her more strength to continue. Thanks to being a multifaceted woman, she was able to focus her energies in other areas.

Her passion for music, art and entrepreneurship gave her the hope she needed at that time. From this experience, she learned to value moments more, and that the greatest treasures are inner power, creativity, purposes in life, family, and wisdom. For this reason, she wanted to inspire others to grow and have tools to constantly face life.
The artist has been very excited about the release of her new single. She did not miss an opportunity to thank those who have supported her and the women who inspired her:

“Special thanks to all the women of the world, for inspiring this song”

For Frontini, composing is a magical process, she feels blessed to be able to collaborate with producers who challenge her as a singer and author. For her, it is a privilege that she is inspired to go beyond her own mental and emotional barriers.

Her musical career will continue to give something to talk about, and perhaps before we imagine, she will surprise us with her album!

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International Salsa Magazine (ISM) is a monthly publication about Salsa activities around the world, that has been publishing since 2007. It is a world network of volunteers coordinated by ISM Magazine. We are working to strengthen all the events by working together.