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Ángel “Cucco” Peña and a great legacy

Cucco Peña has donated his emblematic tuxedo to the Spanish Harlem Salsa Gallery Museum

By Johnny Cruz

News from NY City

Who is Cucco Peña

The emblematic tuxedo — Ángel “Cucco” Peña

On September 1, 1948, Angel ‘Cucco’ Peña was born, someone who from elementary school showed his interest in music and as the years passed, showed that there were little flashes of that brilliant talent he had. His talent and passion were aligned, so he always spent his life surrounded by music. Today he could be considered an icon of Latin music thanks to his achievements as an artist and thanks to everything he offered to the industry; he has managed to trace a career full of successes, one that today continues to inspire many people.

Peña’s talent led him to interact in many music-related activities, not only did he graduate from the Puerto Rico Music Conservatory, but also, after graduation, he joined the Pan-American Orchestra, starting with what would be a career full of reached goals. In the orchestra, he would familiarize himself with many different styles that would help him as a musician, since in the orchestra he played a wide variety of music, from bolero, blues and jazz, to pop and even rock.

Cucco Peña’s path

Cucco Peña is a great artist

Cucco left the band and began to trace his own path with everything he learned, he didn’t just become a music director, but a producer, composer, and arranger for many internationally famous artists such as: Ricky Martin, Chayanne, Ricardo Arjona, Olga Tañon, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Luis Fonsi, Franco de Vita and many other artists; despite each artist’s very different styles, Peña’s talent has allowed him to understand perfectly what all of them needed. In his own words, “it is important to see that music has three perspectives: the artist perspective, the company’s perspective, and my own.” Finding a perfect harmony between these three perspectives, Peña has participated in the creation of great themes.

Achievements

The North American has not only managed to collaborate with a large number of renowned artists, but has also achieved a lot of recognition for his work, he is a two times Grammy winner, the first is the Grammy for the best tropical album contra la corriente, Marc Anthony’s album (1999), the second is Latin Grammy for best musical production, this thanks to Olga Tañón’s album, Yo por ti. Grammy is not the only award he has won, he also received a total of 60 Cuspide awards and 40 Addy awards, plus 20 awards from the New York Theater Festival and an “Agüeybaná de Oro” for Director of the Year.

The awards are not everything, he has been both the director and the composer of the Central American games’ opening and closing ceremonies, and the composer of two movie soundtracks (“La Gran Fiesta” and “Nicolás y Los Demás”); Plus, he has produced more than 100 compositions, not to mention that he also worked as a producer for important figures in the industry, such as Lunna, Jerry Rivera, Chayanne, and many others.

Without a doubt, Ángel “Cucco” Peña is a very important figure for the industry, and after a long career dedicated to music, he has shown that his talent is worthy of being recognized.

The invitation to tune in to the new Fm / Internet radio station on Live365.com: Salsagallery continues. Great music, artist interviews and much more.

At the Spanish Harlem Salsa Gallery Museum we are happy to affirm that New York City is preparing to resume its activities little by little. We hope to have more news soon and that we can return to normal soon.

The Museum is open free to the public. We wait for you!

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 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.

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.

“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.

“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 ”.

“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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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!

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Daniela Darcourt and Tony Succar together for a charming photo

Daniela visits Tony on her trip to Miami

While she was in the United States, the artist visited the renowned producer, in what was a nice surprise for the fans of both of them. The news was released by the singer herself through her Instagram, where she told a small but motivating story while sharing a photograph of both posing together with the talented Peruvian-American producer’s Grammys.

Daniela mentions the first contact she had with who is her friend now, Tony, saying that five years ago she wrote to him to express her admiration for the producer’s work; she also added that she would love to meet him one day, which happened, for 4 years after that message was sent, they played together at a huge concert in Peru.

Daniela’s touching words

The words dedicated to Tony Succar by the artist are overflowing with love, the second we read them, we realize how happy she felt about the visit. “You know better than anyone how much I adore, love, and respect you, your family, your work, your heart”. All of these words, accompanied by the two big smiles in the picture.

Daniela Darcourt and Tony Succar together.

She concluded her post with a nice message and an ambitious promise, “You can count on me forever and always (I promise that in the next photo we take, my Grammys will be there too) I love you with all my heart!” she said in a cheerful tone.

Not only Daniela made a post about the reunion, but Tony also posted another photo of them together in his studio with a shorter but just as loving message. “It was an honor to have you here for the first time! You have too much talent. I am super proud of what you are achieving”.

As expected, as a result of these events, rumors of a collaboration between the two of them did not take long to arrive, not only due to their reunion, but also to the photograph published by Tony, where Daniela is seen with an expression that suggests that she is singing, which is enough reason to put all the fans of both artists to the expectations of what may happen between them, although it is important to note that until now there has been no statement by either of them that confirms or denies the rumors.

Whether there is a collaboration between the two artists or not, what is clear is that Daniela Darcourt is at a great moment in her musical career, and her ambitions are not low, she has made clear her intentions to apply to the Grammy awards and get one, a dream that can be achieved if she continues to grow as an artist.

Despite how problematic the year has been for everyone, the interpreter of ‘Señor mentira’ has had a couple of remarkable moments in 2020, one of them is her nomination for the Heat Awards with her song ‘probabilidad de amor’ ; also, her music has been widely heard on Spotify, which is quite significant, especially when we take into account her obvious intentions to internationalize musically.

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