Search Results for: Academy

Javier Plaza “With Coconut Flavor”

From the 23 de Enero neighborhood of Caracas to Cologne – Germany

October 4, 1952: Javier Ernesto Plaza Castillo was born in the Tiro al Blanco area of the Sarría neighborhood in Caracas, Venezuela. He is a musician, percussionist, singer, and composer.

Javier Plaza is a great and veteran Venezuelan sonero that was trained in the 23 de Enero parish.

He started his professional career as a member of groups such as Rumbón 10, Sexteto Juventud, and Enrique “Culebra” Iriarte y Su Orquesta. It was “Culebra” who allowed him to be one of the singers of the orchestra.

He participated in records from different groups such as José Rosario y Sus Soneros, Federico y Su Combo, and El Clan de Victor.

Javier Plaza is an excellent veteran Venezuelan sonero trained in the parish of 23 de Enero — With Coconut Flavor

Javier visited Cali to promote his album “Con Sabor a Coco” and had the opportunity to listen to his live music accompanied by the Coimbre Orchestra formed by young musicians from Cali at the Baile Swing Latino Academy in March 2011. Without a doubt, it was a unique experience, Javier demonstrated that he is a true sonero.

In the early ’80s, Plaza created his band called Orquesta Café in the company of Joe Ruiz and Carlos Espósito, making possible the recording of one of his most important songs.

Sometime later, he participated in the group called Combo Ventú established in Paris.

In Europe, he participated in different groups and collaborated in recordings and performances of other artists.

Thanks to the performances with the Combo Ventú group, the Conexión Latina Orquesta’s director, contacted him, he has continued to remain in this orchestra for 18 years, being now the most ancient musician of the group.

In Europe he participates in different groups, and collaborates in recordings and presentations of other artists. — Javier Plaza and The Conexión Latina Orchestra

He has also participated in groups such as: Kimbiza, La Charanga Nueva de Alfredo Cutuflá, pianist Francisco Zumaqué, Salsamanía, César “Chino” Pérez and Gerardo Rosales. All this without dropping his responsibilities to the Conexión Latina orchestra.

Thanks to the orchestra, he has had the opportunity to accompany international figures in Latin music such as Luis Perico Ortiz, Ismael Miranda, Adalberto Santiago, and Camilo Azuquita, among others.

Since 1992, Javier Plaza has been managing his personal project, which is the Son-Risa Orchestra. Additional to that, he has performed two productions titled “Libre Soy” and “Mi Música” and most of the songs of his authorship.

Javier Plaza is one of the most recognized Venezuelan percussionists in Europe, with a career spanning more than 20 years in the salsa and Latin music industry. Do you want to know more about him? Here are the details.

Currently, he is still in Germany, working on his own project, the salsa band Son-Risa, and his mission is to spread the Venezuelan flavor throughout Europe. — Javier Plaza and his own project, the salsa band Son-Risa

While growing up, music was one of the most important things, and practiced different instruments with friends and family. Among those friends were future stars such as Bitervo Plaza, José “Cheo” Navarro, and Alfredo “Cutuflá” Franchesqui.

In the mid-’70s, his career took off when he joined different Latin bands such as Rumbón 10, Sexteto Juventud, and Enrique “Culebra” Iriarte, and his orchestra; this allows him to open the doors to a new recording market from the hand of producer Víctor Mendoza.

After many years, Alfredo Cutuflá invited him to join the Combo Ventú group in Paris with other Venezuelan musicians.

This is when Plaza started a career in Europe playing with different bands and in projects by other artists.

He participated in recordings of different groups, such as: José Rosario y Sus Soneros, Federico y Su Combo and El Clan de Víctor. — Javier Plaza “Con Sabor A Coco” (With Coconut Flavor)

Thanks to the Combo Ventu group’s connections, the Conexion Latina orchestra’s manager offered him to join the group in Munich, Germany, and from that moment he has been in this band for 18 years.

Currently, he is still in Germany, working on his project that is the salsa band Son-Risa and his mission is to spread the Venezuelan flavor throughout Europe.

Inicio

Eddie Palmieri Memorable Career

Eddie Palmieri

There are not many musicians who try to step outside the industry’s pre-established mold and experiment, but those talented artists who dare to do so are often remembered. Some define him as a genius, others as a revolutionary, the truth is that it is evident that Eddie Palmieri’s style has always been ahead of his time. He is among those artists who preferred to do something different rather than simply adapt to the commercial trends that existed in the music industry in the 1960s, which is why he has always been considered an experimental and brilliant artist.

Born in New York, although with Puerto Rican parents, Eddie showed interest in music since he was just a kid. At the young age of 14, his talent did already lead him to create his first orchestra. Tropical music and jazz were special genres for Palmieri, so Palmieri showed a special interest in both. Despite starting out as a percussionist, he eventually showed more interest in the piano, and his natural talent was evident, so he decided to become a pianist. That was the beginning of a career that would be full of success.

His career began when he participated in the orchestras of Vicentico Valdés and Tito Rodríguez, where he gained experience that would later lead him to create his own band, one that would mark a crucial change in Palmieri’s personal and professional life, the name of the legendary band was “La perfecta” (The perfect one).

In 1962, la perfecta made their debut, adding trombones and trumpets to the sound of the flute and violins of the era, thus creating a fresh, and peculiar sound that people were starting to love. It is normal that his love for jazz led him to continually experiment with different sounds, but what Eddie did not know at the time, was that those “experiments” would eventually make him a person worthy of being considered one of the greatest exponents of Latin jazz and salsa.

Awards

It is true that the quality of a great artist is not only defined by the awards he owns, but it is a prove of how relevant his music has been in different eras; in Eddie Palmieri’s case, his showcase is quite full of awards, here are a few of the most important ones: In 1976 the American achieved a memorable feat at the Grammy Awards by winning the coveted statuette, all thanks to The Sun of Latin Music, a production recorded by him. This would be the first Latin American production to win this award.

On the other hand, Eddie also won the award for Musical Excellence, an award given by the Academia Latina de la Grabación (Latin Recording Academy); Another important achievement was being recognized by the NEA Jazz Masters Award thanks to his passage through jazz.

His musical career is very extensive, as is his discography, so his biggest hits have been compiled in the following compilations: The History of Eddie Palmieri (1975), Gold: 1973-1976 (1976), The Music Man (1977), Salsa Caliente de Nu York! (2001), Sugar Daddy (2007), El Virtuoso (2010) y Salsa Brothers (2011).

Home

Armando Manzanero “The King of Romanticism” left us this morning

Master Armando Manzanero said goodbye to us due to covid-19 complications

The morning of December 28, Mexico and the rest of Latin America woke up to the sad news of the death of another of its great artists: Maestro Armando Manzanero. A few days ago it was announced that the singer-songwriter had tested positive for covid-19, the virus that has the world paralyzed and on edge, he was hospitalized on December 17 for complications associated with it.

Despite informing that Armando was improving at respiratory level after being intubated, it was reported that he would remain under observation for some kidney problems. This morning the Society of Authors and Composers of Mexico, of which he was the president, announced his death due to a heart attack associated with his complications.

With his 86 years, the maestro always remained active, contributing a lot to the history of Latin music and his native Mexico. Nobody would have thought that we will not only say goodbye to 2020 but also to the great musician, his ashes will be delivered to his family during this Monday, which will be transferred to his born city Mérida, where at the beginning of the month he had inaugurated the Casa Manzanero museum where the best milestones of his career of more than 60 years are exhibited.

Armando Manzanero was one of the greatest — The master Armando Manzanero.

The incredible long career of Armando Manzanero

Armando Manzanero passed away at the age of 86, leaving a legacy of golden years on stage with his favorite instrument: the piano, demonstrating the great talent that exists in Latin America. In 1950 he composed what would be his first tune “Never in the world”, this was only the beginning of his great career.

There are more than 400 songs that the maestro composed, which are divided between those used for his own discography and those that many artists have had the honor of singing, among which we can name: Elvis Presley, Andrea Bocelli, Angélica María, Luis Fonsi, Belinda, Joan Sebastian, La Arrolladora Banda El Limón, Roberto Carlos, Andrés Calamaro, Ana Torroja, Ana Gabriel, Daniela Romo, Laura Pausini, Cristian Castro, Alejandro Fernández, Lucero, Paulina Rubio, Ricardo Montaner, Miguel Bosé, Rocío Dúrcal, Raphael, David Bisbal, Pedro Fernández, José José, Luis Miguel, Vicente Fernández and many more.

Armando Manzanero died last December — The King of Romanticism is no longer with us.

Not only did he participate in songwriting for albums and artists, but he also participated in the composition of many songs for movies and soap operas. Among all his great awards are several Grammys including the Award for Musical Excellence for his great contributions to music.

The Recording Academy posted on its Twitter account: “Armando Manzanero, recipient of the Award for Musical Excellence and winner of the Latin GRAMMY, as well as a great friend of the Academy, has left us. We celebrate his life and work. Irreparable loss for the world of Latin music. We accompany the Manzanero family in their deep pain.”

We must remember that the maestro was honored this year in many ways, the most memorable were those made at the Billboard Latin Music Awards and the Latin Grammy, no one thought that they would be the last tributes in life for Mr. Manzanero. During this week more posthumous tributes, and many words from different Latin artists are expected.

Rest in peace Armando Manzanero, may heaven be filled with his romantic words and great tunes!

Home

The Five Most Influential Latin Artists of 2020

These are the top latin names of this year

The times are changing, influencers and new talents are gaining ground within the industry. Meet some of the most influential latin artists of 2020!

Latin America has been the birthplace of singers, songwriters, producers, and artists that have taken their talent to the USA and the rest of the world. With their flags held high and their nationalism deep rooted, they have been the ones that impulse their culture in North America and Canada, that way they have opened many opportunities to the next generations.

2020 was a year of challenges and so many changes, however some personalities from the media industry didn’t give up. Many of them took advantage to work on projects that they had in mind, and surprised their fans. While others were dedicated to remember their biggest hits, and used digital platforms to perform remote concerts. For this reason, we want to mention and give recognition to five latin artists that keep afloat during this year; they were revelations, and got a larger scope that anyone could have imagined.

Five Most Influential Latin Artists of 2020

Manny Cruz

The Dominican with Cuban origins has been one of the exposures of his genre, that has known how to take advantage of his fame to position himself within the media. He was the Dominican artist with more nominations on the Latin Grammy.

“The Lord loves so much and I feel so grateful with these two nominations. And very happy of how the people had embraced my music, and to be able to contribute a little to our merengue history”, expressed the artist.

Manny Cruz one of the most influential Latin Artists of 2020 — Manny Cruz

Cruz ‘s career has been on the rise, because it doesn’t leave space to anybody. During this year he had made collabs with Ilegales, Miriam Cruz, and a tribute to Juan Luis Guerra. He also has shared projects with the merenguero Eddy Herrera.

After being part of several groups, he decided to try a solo career without knowing what his destiny, and talent had prepared for him: he obtained the award for Solo Singer of The Year in the “Premios Soberanos”. In 2017 he was the winner of a Latin Grammy, thanks to writing together with his brother Daniel Santacruz, the single “Deja Vu” for Prince Royce and Shakira. In 2018 he got three awards at “Premios Soberanos”.

Manny has specialized in merengue and pop-ballad, he is a singer and songwriter. “Santo Domingo” is his latest music video, which has gained more than 2 million of views on YouTube. More and more are the singers that want to share their works with him, and of course have the opportunity to count on him as a songwriter. He is one the young musicians that are here to stay, and he is now well placed among the american audience, and spanish speakers.

Nathy Peluso

Another singer that has broken barriers, and has gained a position within the industry is Nathalia Dora, better known as Nathy Peluso. Even when she is only 25 years old, she is already a trendsetter in different musical genres. She is acclaimed for her fusions with rap, hip-hop, jazz, and salsa, a combination that is only possible for a woman like her. She was born in Argentina, and she was one of the honor guests invited to this year Latin Grammy.

She is a singer, songwriter, and started her career from very young. She studied theater with teachers from Dominican Republic, Cuba and Colombia. That way she took their accents, and it can be noted on the majority of her singles. She is inclined for blues and jazz styles.

Even when she is living in Spain, it has surprised the acceptance of her music in Latin America and the USA. 2020 has been her year, she released her first single of her next album: Business Woman, with which she wants to continue showing her strong side, and consolidate her place within the industry. Plus, she got her very first nomination to the Gardel Awards, and two nominations to the Latin Grammy in Best New Artist and Best Alternative Song categories.

Peluso has become one of the most important latin artists of the musical scene. She sings about feminism, sex, and even politics.

“Women let me know that I am an inspiration to them”, expressed the artist.

Prince Royce

Prince has been another musician that hasn’t stopped this year. He has topped the first places on Billboard, and was nominated to the Latin Grammy 2020 as Best Contemporary Album / Tropical Fusion. Alter Ego is the double album that makes him stay on everybody’s minds. Many important talents participated in this album, around 60 songwriters, 21 musicians, 23 songs, 18 musical producers, and it has obtained different golden and platinum records around the world. Beside that, it was the only album to debut on the number one of the latin Billboard list of 2020.

The Latin Music Academy considered him as one of the most consistent artists that has been kept loyal to his fans and his origins. The bachata singer has evolved over his career, and he keeps showing his versatility on the market. Geoffrey Royce Rojas de León is an American singer, songwriter, and music producer with Dominican origins.

Tonny Succar

Antonio Guillermo Succar better known as Tonny Succar is a Peruvian-American songwriter, arranger, percussionist, band leader, and producer. In 2019, he received the Latin Grammy for Best Salsa Album, and a second award as the Producer of the Year. As a young boy, he auditioned for a latin jazz ensemble in his school, and of course he got his desired position. Then, he went on to assume the family band’s Musical Director position, which was named Mixtura. After graduation he continued as an artist, and teaching other music students.

His talent went beyond borders, and had the opportunity to work with renowned artists such as: La India, Tito Nieves, Michael Stuart, Jon Secada, Obie Bermúdez, and Kevin Ceballo. He was also the crucial piece in a tribute to Michael Jackson, this project was a great chance for him to be close to artists that he admired. Succar is still forming, and is planning to be part of a musical legacy that goes beyond borders.

“If you don’t take the opportunity when it has to be, the train will leave” he commented after getting the Latin Grammy.

Tito Puente Jr.

He always knew that his career would be compared to his father’s, and he was very clear that it won’t be easy to reach that level. For that reason he decided to make his own name with his own identity. From very young he participated in different bands including a rock one. That way Tito Jr. formed his own trajectory and now is well known within the industry.

However he is continuing his father’s legacy at performing several of his most famous songs. He also has never doubted making tributes to his father, with different events for youngs and children where they learn to play different instruments. Tito was born in New York on June 2nd,1971, he is 49 years old, and has several albums of his own. He is very proud of his origins, but at the same time he has created his own name.

“I have my father ‘s spirit”, he said proudly.

This new generation is promising to hold their countries’ names high with passion, enthusiasm, and so much commitment.

Home

Rueda de Salsa Casino – Vzla

Venezuela land of the “Rueda de Salsa Casino”

Venezuela could be known as the country with the largest number of Cuban-style Salsa Schools (the so-called Salsa Casino) in the world.
In its territorial division, more than 18 states of the country register a hundred schools dedicated to the teaching of the “Rueda de Salsa Casino” as an elementary basis for the diffusion of dance. Fashion came to us in the 90s and to date it has been maintained, having a huge boom in children, youth and adults, some by training, others by distraction, registering to date more than 160 formal academies established throughout the world. national territory, for this element, could be counted more than three thousand people dedicated to this discipline.

The development of the Casino has reached a very professional level, to its credit Venezuela has high-level dancers, some who have managed to bring to this area of the Caribbean prizes from other latitudes, not in a round but in pairs and soloists, the first obtained in 2007 by Ana de la Torre and Leonel Villarreal at the Miami Rueda Congress in 2007 as a couple, in 2009 by Nathaly Navarro and José Manuel Pérez from 1st place as a couple and 1st in the GandPrix of the winners in Primavera Salsa Open in Wroclaw – Poland where Sandra Batista and José Castro also obtained the 2nd place, that is to say Creole sweep, closing in 2014 with the 2nd place obtained by Raimond Madrid in the Columbia competition and the 4th place of María Alejandra and Arturo Reyes in They are Cuban, both from the Guaguancó Festival in Barcelona.

Competencia de Casino - Venezuela — Practicing Salsa Casino

On May 15, 2016, a national Casino Rueda proposal was carried out, in which 16 states were able to participate, including the Capital District, Miranda, Aragua, Anzoátegui, Nueva Esparta, Lara, among others. We can highlight the best participation in the Carabobo state, achieving a national record of 1480 dancers with only 23 academies or schools in the state, among which stand out, Saoco Latino, Ashe roots and culture, Kimbara, Es Latino, passion and rhythm among others, unofficial record for record, but boy, how intimidating.

In the same order, there are already formal institutions that join forces to make improvements in the cooperative work of schools in Venezuela, there have already been about 6 associations or unions formed in some states of the country, this is the case of the newly born Federation Venezolana de Salsa Casino FEVESALCA, an entity that among its projects seeks to project the work of the Venezuelan Casino Wheel to the whole world, an example of them is one of the many articles that we will be reading about this great project.

Venezuelans are going for more and for 2017 they have prepared something very big, in November they were for the Guinness Record attempt for the longest Casino Wheel in the world, they have relied on their record of the largest and longest cable car to back this attempt, soon the state of Mérida could register a second Guinness, we will be closely monitoring this event, for the date the organizing academy could not be contacted, you are invited to be part of this attempt, do not stop writing to josemanuelperezchavez @ gmail .com and we will keep you informed.

Rueda Casino Elegant Competition Academies — Rueda de Casino

Due to the above, Venezuela seems to be the country with the greatest diffusion of this genre, everyone is invited to join this trend, a Casino Rueda in Venezuela is tempting, we all go together to dance to the sound of Venezuela.

Home