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César Tafur “Rocoto” an excellent Peruano illustrator

César Tafur “Rocoto” is a Peruvian illustrator, who does truly impressive vector portraits.

Illustrator Cesar Tafur “Rocoto” is Today with us in International Salsa Magazine / www.SalsaGoogle.com.

What a tremendous honor and pleasure to tremendous to be interviewed. Thank you very much for the consideration and appreciation for my work.

César Tafur "Rocoto" is a Peruvian illustrator, who makes some really impressive vector portraits. — César Tafur “Rocoto”

Let’s begin with the first question: How would you describe your illustration style?

They are 100% vector illustrations marked by an obsession with the details and the follow-up on a realist tendency. Agile strokes with varying thicknesses. The painting is mostly based on plain colors, trying not to use many gradients.

At what point in your life did you start liking the world of illustration?

Since I was a very young child. My parents say I spent a lot of time scribbling on everything I found.

The freedom I got from them contributed a lot since they never reproached me for scratching everything: photos, walls, t-shirts, etc. (laugh)

What did you study, César? Where and what did you learn there?

My dream of youth was to be an architect. I studied Graphic Design, as a consolation at not being able to enter the university. Unfortunately, my training as a designer was not the best one. But all clouds have a silver lining. I met and learned a lot from people who loved drawing and strongly influenced me in this institute. They taught me the proper use of drawing tools and materials.

My tendencies to drawing started to increase. I also learned the software (Adobe illustrator) that I could use to do what I do now.

How were your beginnings in the world of digital illustration?

At the beginning, it was a bit frustrating. I had already seen the work of some illustrators, and by comparing them with mine, well… the difference was catastrophic. What impotence! But the practice is everything. I’m self-taught, nobody taught me how to do what I do now. It is gratifying.

What were you thinking of making illustrations of famous people?

César Tafur "Rocoto" — Tito Rojas 1955 – 2020
César Tafur “Rocoto”

I always try to mix things that I like and make me happy. The characters I draw are mainly characterized by two things: they are either salseros or Football players. Salsa (music) and football (even though I am really bad at football) are things that fascinate me. Besides, when drawing famous people, I test the quality of my work because, this being a public figure, it will be easier for others to identify. If it is not, it is not well-illustrated, and that, for me, is a failure.

Can you enumerate some of the famous people you have drawn? Singers, athletes, musicians…

The list is quite long. Singers like Celia Cruz, Rubén Blades, Héctor Lavoe, Lennon, Paul McCartney, Michael Jackson, Mick Jagger, Pavarotti, etc. Sportsmen: Ronaldinho, Zidane, Messi, Ronaldo, Buffon, Rafael Nadal, Jordan, Pirlo, The Rock, etc. Some, I have even drawn on more than one occasion, such as Ruben Blades, Messi, or Roberto Carlos, just to cite some.

Which illustration or illustrations are you most proud of and why?

Not so much proud. I could tell you about the illustrations that make me the happiest. One of them is the one I made of Maestro Eddie Palmieri ho was a salsa legend. It was so well received in the salsa world that many of those spoken to on this subject congratulated me because it was a good image. But the thing that moved me the most was that Maestro Palmieri himself posted this illustration to his Instagram account. Wow! Another one that makes me feel very happy and for which I received many congratulations is the one I made for my mom on her birthday.

What has been the most successful illustration?

That of Maestro Eddie Palmieri, thanks to it I made a lot of friends who love salsa.

What illustration required the most from you?

The one I made of a Harley Davidson motorcycle, ufff, you have no idea the trouble I had making that illustration. The idea of discarding it crossed my mind because of the complexity of its details twice, but I decided to continue it and then… I think it worked out in the end. I love that illustration.

What commissions have you done in the world of illustration?

I made some drawings for a friend who was a promoter of salsa events, with which he promoted his events. I’ve also done some for other friends as a token of appreciation. I do this more for a hobby than generating income.

What material, tools, and programs do you use to make your drawings?

I use a graphic tablet (Wacom Intuos Pro). All my illustrations are made in Adobe Illustrator. I also use Photoshop to modify the image to be illustrated if necessary.

We have seen that anyone who wants to get an illustration with your style, can you tell us about the steps to follow to order you an illustration?

I merely ask one thing: Send me an image with good resolution to my email: [email protected]. The rest is on me.

How far would you like to go in the world of illustration?

I haven’t thought about that. Like I told you already, I do this like a hobby. I feel happy doing this, it pleases me and it fulfills me.

Although (it may sound a bit arrogant) I would like my style to get marked and above all recognizable.

We have seen that all your works are signed with the name “Rocoto”, where did this artistic name come from?

It’s a nickname I’ve had as far as I can remember. Rocoto is a pepper (chilli) very spicy. It turns out that my physical characteristics (according to my father) were similar to those of that fruit of nature in my first days of birth. He made that comparison in front of his friends (which aroused laughter and guffaws) and I stayed with that nickname still today.

What future commissions or illustrations do you intend to do?

Many things go through my head. One of them is to create collections of characters based on characteristics in common with others. For example: World champions, musical legends, sporting legends, etc. Each collection has different graphic styles, but I still keep my illustration style.

What does César do on a normal day?

I try not to be a man of habit, but most of the time, that desire is not realized. Many factors adversely affect. Luckily my job allows me to do stuff I like: drawing and reading. However, I’m surely in front of my PC sketching or planning what to draw in the afternoon.

What are your hobbies? What do you like to do besides illustration?

Another of the things I love the most is reading and doing crossword puzzles. And if there’s a salsa concert in the capital, I’m always going there no matter what! I am passionate about live music.

Many people say that everyone draws according to his personality, do you think your drawings are looked like the way you are?

In some aspects. I think the simplicity of the final drawing resembles the way I am: clear and simple. I consider myself a detail-oriented person (it sounds a bit kitschy hahahaha, but it is the truth) and this is something related to my illustration style: I have an obsession with details in my work.

Could you tell us about other illustrators or artists you admire, know or follow consistently?

I follow many illustrators and cartoonists (I would give anything to make cartoons). If I had to mention just one name, I would choose Cristiano Siqueira, a MASTER of vector illustration. My style arose precisely thank to some of his work. In the world of caricatures, I have a homeboy of mine called Walter Toscano and Jean-Marc Borot as references, two real geniuses, I admire (and envy) them very much!

And someone you admire outside the world of illustration?

I admire many, but I’m a fan of is Rubén Blades. A Panamanian singer-songwriter that is considered a reference in Latin music. It seems to me that think the lyrics of his songs are fabulous.

What music do you listen to?

I’m a music lover and I listen to a little bit of everything, depending on the context. But I love Salsa. When I draw, I listen to romantic salsa and ballads. When I’m with my friends while sharing moments between drinks, I listen to hard salsa and cumbia.

What are your favorite movies or series?

I am not fond of the seventh art. Regarding the series, I love and enjoy La Familia P. Luche, which is a Mexican comic series by comedian Eugenio Derbéz.

Any book that you have read lately, or one that you especially liked.

I really liked these two novels: The Boys From Brazil (Ira Levin) and Le Solitaire (Guy des Cars). I recommend them to everyone!

Any person you would like to thank especially for what he/she has given you in the world of illustration.

Many people influenced and encouraged my love of drawing, it is difficult to mention just a few. Friends from the neighborhood, from high school, my parents, I feel a deep and sincere gratitude for all of them.

Is there any person who is special to you and who to thank in life in general?

Infinite thanks to the person who motivates and gives meaning to my life: Trinidad Callirgos, my mother.

To conclude, We would like you to tell us how we can see your work on the internet. What social networks do you use?

I have accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Behance. There you can visualize all my illustrations.

Apart from my work, you can also see one or another post of my social life on Facebook.

Date of birth: August 3, 1989

Place of birth: Chiclayo, Peru

Facebook: Facebook.com/cesarangel.tafurcallirgos

Instagram: Instagram.com/cesar.tafur_rocoto

Behance: Behance.net/cs_leo200450ad

Source:

Legal Authorization: César Tafur “Rocoto”.

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Orlando Poleo a teacher from Sarria direct to France

Virtuoso Multi-Percussionist Orlando Poleo from Sarria to the World.

Orlando Poleo with a long trajectory in Venezuela, he has been standing out for his talent with a music that develops between jazz, Cuban son and Afro-Venezuelan rhythms.

He learned to master the Afro-Venezuelan percussion of Barlovento with one of his best disciples, the great percussionist Miguel Urbina.

In 1987, he moved to Cuba, where he deepened his knowledge of Afro-Cuban rhythms, with emphasis on bata drumming.

Orlando Poleo a teacher from Sarria direct to France — Virtuoso Multi-Percussionist Orlando Poleo from Sarria to the World

Orlando Poleo learns to play Afro-Puerto Rican percussion, bomba and plena with Cachete Maldonado, Giovanni Hidalgo and Anthony Carrillo.

Descarga y Alegría with Poleo in 1991, Orlando arrives in Paris where he is requested by well known orchestras of the local Latin scene: Alfredo Rodriguez, Azuquita, Ernesto “Tito” Puentes, and at the same time he is invited by international artists touring Europe: Eddie Palmieri, Arturo Sandoval, Mongo Santamaria, Kip Hanrahan, Archie Chepp, Chico Freeman.

He meets the French singer Danny Brillant who proposes him to accompany him on his tour in France and French-speaking countries.

With his group “Chaworo“, created in Paris and joined in 1997 by the Venezuelan vocalist Carlos Esposito, Orlando Poléo plays in many festivals, including the famous “Jazz in Marciac”.

The famous French singer Bernard Lavilliers invites him to the “Francofolies de Spa”, Belgium, and to the Arenas de Nîmes. On December 10, 1998, he participates with Tracy Chapman, Youssou N’Dour, Peter Gabriel, Bruce Springsteen, Kassav’, among others, in the great celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of Amnesty International in Paris-Bercy.

He performs with Chaworo at the Midem in Cannes in 1999 and obtains a real triumph. In Deauville, he shares the bill of the festival “Swing in Deauville” with Joe Cocker and Joan Baez.

VirtuVirtuoso Multi-Percussionist Orlando Poleo from Sarria to the World — Learn to master the Afro-Venezuelan percussion of Barlovento with one of his best disciples, the great percussionist Miguel Urbina.

He also has a long experience in pedagogy since he taught for ten years in Conac from 1981 to 1991 and in Fundarte from 1992 to 1991 in Caracas until his departure to Paris France in the same year, in France and internationally he has given master classes of Latin percussion in conservatories, schools of different styles of music, he has also been a jury of final exams in different institutions.

Since 2001 he has been part of the teaching staff of the prestigious Music School (CMDL) of the great French violinist Didier Lockwood, recently deceased.

Orlando Poleo, is considered one of the best percussionists of the Latin jazz movement worldwide and has recorded three albums distributed by Sony France: “El buen camino“, “Sangre Negra” and “Lo bueno de la vida” and the fourth album “Curate” distributed by the Cacao Musica label.

In France, in a town two hours away from the capital, Saint Cyr Sur Loire, there is a percussion classroom in a classical music school that bears his name.

He meets the French singer Danny Brillant who proposes to accompany him on his tour in France and French-speaking countries. — Multi-Percussionist Orlando Poleo from Sarria to the World

Orlando, continues to teach Afro-Caribbean percussion in France and also in the whole world he is requested to give master classes, workshops, etc.

In 2004 Orlando creates Afrovenezuelajazz to continue evolving in the fusion of various styles of traditional Venezuelan music such as La Fulía and Quitipla de Barlovento, Joropo, La gaita de furro de Maracaibo and other Latin American styles with Jazz and other musical horizons using traditional Venezuelan percussion instruments and other Caribbean countries, most of the repertoire of the group is completely original and that is another interesting feature of this project.

It is important to highlight that in 2012, the Amphitheater “ORLANDO POLEO” was inaugurated in the Endogenous Nucleus “Tiuna El Fuerte” located in the parish of El Valle de Caracas.

In that same year he was invited by the Tokun Orchestra to accompany figures of the stature of Larry Harlow, José Alberto “El Canario”, Tito Allen, Luigi Texidor and Alfredo De La Fe for two memorable concerts.

Orlando Poleo receives on May 16, 2016 another great recognition from the French Senate (Senate medal) for his eminent contribution to the relations between Venezuela and France and is invited along with the other awardees from the other Latin American countries to a reception at the Palais de L’Élysée (presidential palace) by the former President of France Francois Hollande.

Since 2015 he is part of the famed group of the great Cuban flutist Orlando “maraca” Valle and his Latin Jazz All Stars and have toured the United States, France, Lithuania, and Havana Cuba.

He is currently recording his fifth album and is scheduled for release in summer 2019.

Orlando was invited to give a musical conservatory on March 2, 2018 at Unearte.

A teacher from Sarria direct to France

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Professor MSc. Carlos Colmenárez and his “WRITTEN SALSA”

By: Professor MSc. Carlos Colmenárez (Barquisimeto, Venezuela)

Hello there, regular Salsa Escrita readers, here is your ever friend, Professor Carlos Colmenárez MSc, greets you from Barquisimeto, the musical city of Venezuela. In this edition, we are introduing three vocalists and an orchestra with a great trajectory at a national and international level, who have done a great job on behalf of Latin music and we want to continue projecting them worldwide on these pages.

Among these names are: Jorge Luis Suárez, Cheo Valenzuela, Gustavo Gerardo and the orchestra “Negramenta”, si I certainly hope the written interaction between you and us is to your liking.

Jorge Luis Suárez, “Pride and Symbol of Afro-Caribbean Music”

In Venezuela, the musical talent is undoubtedly first line and proven quality on any stage nationally and worldwide. Specifically in the state of Lara and in the city of Barquisimeto, a great number of artists with category and hierarchy have emerged and been born, exalting our Latin rhythms. — Jorge Luis Suárez, “Pride and Symbol of Afro-Caribbean Music”

In Venezuela, musical talent is without a doubt top of the line and of proven quality nationally and globally. A great number of artists with seniority and status have emerged and born in Barquisimeto, Lara, exalting our Latin rhythms.

For this edition of “Salsa Escrita”, we are honored to have as a special guest the vocalist Jorge Luis Suarez, pride and symbol of Afro-Caribbean music and diverse genres, who has showed his class and professionalism for years.

Jorge Luis is a singer, musician and multi-faceted artist; he was born on August 7 in the city of Maracaibo, the son of parents from the city of Carora, where he spent the most of his childhood in the state of Lara, began to lean towards music, and was largely influenced by his father, who played the guitar and sang romantic music.

At the beginning of the 80’s, he moved to Barquisimeto to attend university and was discovered as a singer and bass, cuatro and guitar player. Welcome to “Salsa Escrita”, through International Salsa Magazine, Jorge Luis Suarez.

To start this pleasant, enjoyable and long-awaited meeting, we would like you tell us your experiences about your artistic career, which has been very successful nationally and globally to make everyone who knows you very proud.

Thank you Professor Carlos Colmenárez for inviting me to your widely read and recognized salsa column, unique at a national and international level and in which you project Venezuelan musicians.

Jorge Luis, with which groups did you start your journey of this wonderful art in which you have demonstrated versatility, perseverance, discipline and quality? Well, let me tell you that I started my musical activity professionally, being part of groups of regional standing like “Las Estrellas del Momento”, “Orquesta Alegría” and then “Venezuela en Gaitas”, “Sason Latino” and at the end of the 80’s and beginning of the 90’s, I joined the staff of the orchestra “La Banda Actual”, a salsa icon in the state of Lara.

By the way, Jorge, we remember your beginnings with “La Banda Actual” and it was an obligatory reference for private parties, night places and of course sharing stage with great artists and Latin and Caribbean music luminaries.

In which groups did you have the joy and the pleasure to sign with national and international stars? In fact, Professor, when I was part of La Banda Actual, we performed with Héctor Lavoe, Wilfrido Vargas, Las Chicas del Can, Porfi Jiménez, Guaco, Los Melódicos, Hermanos Carruyo, Billos Caracas Boys, Orquesta La Crítica and many more during their visits to Barquisimeto, having the Bolivarian Dome and the Trade Fait Complex as locations.

In fact, Jorge Luis, due to your outstanding vocal capacity, gave rise to the call of Luis Frómeta, Billo Frómeta’s son, to join the ranks of Billo’s Caracas Boys. With them I learned to have more artistic discipline and gain experience during 4 years, managing to record three musical productions and traveling through Latin America, the US and Europe; precisely in the Tenerife carnivals we achieved the Güines Record related to public attendance to a dancer, sharing the stage with Celia Cruz and Oscar D’León.

Jorge, tell us about your entry into the orchestra of the world’s leading sonero Oscar D’León. Professor Carlos, precisely as a result of that event in the Canary Islands, Oscar called me and told me that he needed a vocalist of my characteristics to accompany him in his shows and international tours and honestly, it was a difficult decision because with Billo’s Caracas Boys, I was well established along with other Barquisimeto artists: Ely Mendez and Wolfang Perdomo, integrating the line of vocalists for that time, it was all “guaros” (nickname received by the Barquisimeto people).

Jorge Luis is a singer, musician and multifaceted artist, born on August 7 in the city of Maracaibo, son of parents from the city of Carora, where he spent part of his childhood in that entity larense and began to lean towards music, having as main influence his father, who played the guitar and sang romantic music. — Jorge Luis Suárez, “Pride and Presidium of Afro-Caribbean Music”.

But I found Oscar’s offer interesting and finally I said yes. With the Word’s Leading Sonero, to whom I owe a lot, because thanks to him I established myself even more as a performer and especially in salsa, bearing in mind his recommendations to the letter and of course it was an unforgettable experience, since with his orchestra we traveled many countries and performed on stages such as: Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden, House off Blue in Los Angeles, Orange Ball, jazz festivals in Europe, sharing with established artists.

Professor, while I worked with Oscar’s orchestra, I recorded my production “Una Tercera Persona”, in mid 1992, which spawned the hit single “Niegalo Todo”, obtaining the first places in the hit parade.

In that production, I was accompanied by renowned musicians, such as Luisito Quintero, Roberto Quintero, Robert Vilera, Raúl Agraz, Yorman León and the Nicaraguan Luis Enrique.

Jorge, how many years did you work with Oscar and why did you decide to leave his orchestra? I worked with Oscar for approximately four years and I decided to leave the group due to force majeure such as business and commercial commitments that I had and still maintain to this day in Barquisimeto.

For those who do not know, Jorge Luis is a multifaceted artist and has managed to enter in different musical genres as a vocalist, from salsa, bagpipes, tropical dance, guaracha, merengue, Venezuelan and boleros; becoming the musical arranger and producer of the trio Carora International at the end of 2014 in the last one.

At the same time, he produced and performed 19 Venezuelan music songs with arrangements by Jean Piero González, which will be released soon.

Jorge Luis, when you settled again in the musical capital of Venezuela, who did you record with? Professor, in Barquisimeto I have been invited to record with the following groups: Venezuela Somos Gaita, Nikitao, Amantes de la Gaita, Venezuela en Gaitas, Unión Gaitera, Rafa y sus Diamantes, Grupo Colorama, Con Klase, Orquesta Variación, Orquesta la Mayor, Orquesta la Gran Premiere, Venezuela Rumba, La Orquesta Raza Caribe, recording 8 songs with this last one in the production that is also about to be released.

Likewise, I was invited to record with the Son Colón Orchestra from Maracay and the Latin Grammy nominees, our Grupo Santoral from Barquisimeto, participating with them as a special guest in the show “El Amor se Canta” during Valentine’s Day, touring and starting in Juares Theater and other cities in the country, and private presentations.

Regarding current projects, what can you tell Salsa Escrita readers? Currently, my second solo production in the gender of salsa is about to be released with arrangements by Barquisimeto multi-instrumentalist Taylor Aranguren and myself.

We are releasing the album this June with the promotional track “No lo beses”, a song that was interpreted by Alejandro Fernández and by Mexican composer José Luis Roma. The production is called “Jorge Luis Suarez Covers”, which includes songs that have been hits around the world, such as: Cobarde cobarde, Escándalo, La bomba, Cuatro rosas, Darte un beso, El amor más grande del planeta, Bailando, No lo beses, among others.

In this production, I am accompanied by my nephew Taylor Aranguren and the musicians: Carlos Giménez, Rómulo Paiva, Jeison Marchán, Wílner Navas, Freddy Adrián, in the master and mixes: Latin Récods Digital.

Sound engineer: René Zerpa and in the general production: Jorge Luis Suárez. Jorge Luis, what are your social networks or digital platforms to interact with your followers? My contacts are, Instagram: @jorgeluissuarezoficial, Youtube: Jorge Luis Suárez Oficial, [email protected].

Jorge Luis, finally, we want to congratulate you for your consistency in music and wish you continue to fresh triumphs, because you have quality and to spare. Salsa Escrita “La Columna Salsera”, will be at your disposal to support you in your present and future projects, at a good time… Thank you professor and personal friend, Carlos Colmenárez, for offering me your support in your salsa column, allowing me to reach your regular readers all over the world; once again a thousand thanks, blessings and long live Venezuela!.

Cheo Valenzuela, “El Sonero de la Dulzura”

At the age of 7 he moved with his family to the city of Caracas, settling in one of the most popular parishes: La Pastora. Welcome Cheo to Salsa Escrita, "La Columna Salsera" and the International Salsa Magazine. — Cheo Valenzuela, “El Sonero de la Dulzura”

We are pleased to have as a special guest in our salsa column one of the vocalists who has a unique, admirable and respected quality of interpretation, which has been highlighted in our country and abroad and took his flavor and swing with great professionalism and hierarchy. We are talking about Cheo Valenzuela, “El Sonero de la Dulzura”, born in Cantaura, Anzoátegui on January 24th.

At the age of 7, he moved with his family to the city of Caracas, specifically in one of the most popular parishes: La Pastora. Welcome Cheo to Salsa Escrita, “La Columna Salsera” and International Salsa Magazine. Thank you, my friend and professor Carlos Colmenárez, for giving me the opportunity to be present in this tribune of our Afro-Caribbean music, which serves us to make known our talents and musical projects and thus be able to interact with its ragular readers in Venezuela and around the world. Cheo, to begin with, we would like you to tell us how your beginnings in music were. Carlos, at the age of 14 I began my career as salsero and eventually I was called to join quite renowned orchestras.

Such as? I belonged to the Latin Dimension, then Oscar D’León called me nd I was at his side with his orchestra; later I joined “Nuestra Orquesta la Salsa Mayor”; later I was called by “La Sonora Antillana”; then I joined the following groups: Rumbero Menor, Venezuelan Master Orchestra, Orquesta los Latinos, among others. Nowadays I have my own salsa orchestra “Cheo Valenzuela y su Orquesta” and also my own bolero group, called “Cheo Valenzuela y su Ensamble”. It is amazing, Cheo, we really admire your work, which has been persevering and constantly on the up over the years with national and international projection. Yes, Carlos, let me tell you, apart from thanking you for inviting me to your salsa column, I was launched as a soloist some time ago and I currently have two musical productions, the first one entitled “Cheo Valenzuela y su Orquesta eres tù”.

I belonged to Dimensión Latina, then Oscar D'León called me and I was at his side with his orchestra; then I joined "Nuestra Orquesta la Salsa Mayor"; later he called me "La Sonora Antillana". — Cheo Valenzuela y su Orquesta

This CD is composed of traditional salsa, romantic salsa, bolero, son and ballads. Dear salsa lovers and consistent readers, let me tell you that Cheo, every time he gets on stage, shows off all his musical talent with total stage control, since he is a sonero backed by multiple experiences acquired in his presentations, both in Venezuela and in the different countries he has visited.

Cheo, what can you tell us about your current musical situation? Professor Carlos, at present I am presenting the new promotional theme to all music lovers, which is part of my second musical production called “Salsa buena”, a theme of my own with musical arrangements by Venezuelan pianist, trombonist and singer Mauricio Silva, which we hope will lead to your full satisfaction.

Of course, it will be a success, my friend Cheo, because your productions always carry an indisputable seal of quality. By the way, what are your digital platforms and contacts? You can get me as Cheo Valenzuela in all social networks, you can also do it by email: [email protected] and [email protected] and for bookings by phone +58 424 1044822 and +58 416 6388420.

At the end of the interview, let me say that it was an honor to have you in Salsa Escrita “La Columna Salsera” and wish you continue to succeed inside and outside our country, so that we all enjoy Cheo Valenzuela “El Sonero de la Dulzura”.

A thousand thanks, Professor Carlos Colmenárez, for your unconditional friendship and for giving me a space in your column through International Salsa Magazine, I also predict successes to bulk and that you continue to support us in order to make our productions and presentations known very soon in the name of the lord. Blessings to you Carlos and count upon the Cheo Valenzuela’s friendship “Con Dulzura” and a lot of salsa…!

Gustavo Gerardo

“Singer and composer from Venezuela to the world”.

Today’s character is the extraordinary vocalist Gustavo Adolfo Gerardo González, artistically known as Gustavo Gerardo: singer and composer. He was born in Caracas, Venezuela, on September 12, 1972.

He began his career in July 1990, studied theory, solfege, and lyrical singing at the José Reyna School (CONAC). He has participated in different orchestras and accompanied more than 90 artists or orchestras of Venezuela, and almost 60 of other countries live and/or in record productions, on backing vocals or as a soloist.

His voice has transcended boundaries of his land, as he has sung on stages in Panama (Chiriqui and Panama City), Colombia (Cali, Bogota, Manizales, Medellin, Quibdó, Apartadó, Barranquilla, Supía, Istmina, Pereira, Necoclí, Marmato), France (Marseille and Dax), and Mexico (DF).

He has already recorded his first album, which will be entitled “Valió la Pena Esperar”, under the musical production of Víctor “Piolín” Gámez, of which 3 songs are already known, and at the same time he is working on what will be his second album, still without a name, produced musically by Irving Manuel, of which 2 releases have also been made: his first single as a soloist, “Volveré a nacer en ti”, to be released in October 2015, with lyrics and music by Sonsireth Perdomo and arrangements by Alexis Sánchez.

His second promo single “Manos Negras” was released in May 2016, a composition by Pedro Linares, and an arrangement by Víctor “Piolín” Gámez. In February 2017 he presented his third proposal, “Lo que me quedó”, a composition by Colombian singer-songwriter Santiago Cruz, with an arrangement by Irving Manuel; all accompanied by video clips made by Montmadfilm and Jam Producciones.

In October 2017, in Medellín, he released his fourth single, “Se me acabó el amor”, whose authors are Karen Loewy and Ricardo Prado, arrangements by Irving Manuel. February 2018 was the month chosen for several Youtube channels (Venezuela, Colombia, Mexico, Ecuador and Peru) to make public their fifth theme, “Me extrañarás”, again with arrangements by Irving Manuel, and authorshipof lyrics and music by Sonsireth Perdomo; both accompanied by audiovisuals in photo format made by Jam Producciones.

There is particular focus on featuring or collaborations in productions by other artists: “Cuando una madre se va”, (Los Andrade ft Gustavo Gerardo / May 2017); “Homenaje a Leo” (Luis Ángel Tovar y su Distrito Salsa ft Gustavo Gerardo / 2017); “Ángel o demonio” (Carlitos Flores ft Gustavo Gerardo / December 2017); “007 Mambo” (Orquesta Siguarajazz ft Gustavo Gerardo / September 2018).

Among the songs recorded as the leading voice in recordings by Venezuelan artists are: “Plazos traicioneros” (Reinaldo Torcatt y su Orq. “La Manzana”), “Mujer sensual” (Pedro Méndez y su Orquesta), “Vuelve” (Pedro Méndez y su Orquesta), “Sueño enamorado” (Pedro Méndez y su Orquesta), “Ahora Dios sabe” (Pedro Méndez y su Orquesta), “Ven tú” (Machado y su Orquesta 210), “Esa mujer” (Machado y su Orquesta 210), “Dudo” (Machado y su Orquesta 210), “Marijuana” (Carlitos Guzmán y su Orquesta), “La lluvia” (Carlitos Guzmán y su Orquesta), “Me falta todo” (Carlitos Guzmán y su Orquesta), “De jean y franela” (Carlitos Guzmán y su Orquesta), “Nunca dejé de amarte” (Frank Márquez y su Orquesta) “Dancing was dancing” (Sabadonga), “At Maria’s house” (Sabadonga), “Thirsty for rumba” (Sabadonga), “Paint your lips Maria” (The Constellation “Wladimir Lozano”), “Llanerísimas 1” Popurri (Los Eléctrikos del Vallenato), “Burial night” (Los Eléctrikos del Vallenato), “Nobody is eternal” (Los Eléctrikos del Vallenato), “The Testament” (Los Eléctrikos del Vallenato), “The Old Men are in charge” (Los Eléctrikos del Vallenato), “Your love is good for me” (Los Eléctrikos del Vallenato), “Back to the Amazon” (Kenny su Orquesta El Trovador de la Salsa / September 2018.

Venezuelan artists or orchestras that has been accompanied by Gustavo Gerardo live and/or in record productions, on background vocals or as a soloist:

His first album, "Valió la Pena Esperar", is already recorded, under the musical production of Víctor "Piolín" Gámez, of which 3 songs are already known, and in parallel he is working on what will be his second album, still unnamed, musically produced by Irving Manuel, of which 2 releases have also been made: his first single as a soloist, "Volveré a nacer en ti", was released in October 2015, with lyrics and music by Sonsireth Perdomo and arrangements by Alexis Sánchez. Her second promotional single, "Manos negras" was released in May 2016, a composition by Pedro Linares, and arrangement by Víctor "Piolín" Gámez. In February 2017 he presented his third proposal, "Lo que me quedó", composed by Colombian singer-songwriter Santiago Cruz, with arrangement by Irving Manuel; all accompanied by video clips made by Montmadfilm and Jam Producciones. — Gustavo Gerardo Singer and composer from Venezuela to the World

Marianella (La Rubia de la Salsa), 2. Salvador Pino, 3. Naty y su Orquesta, 4. Wladimir Lozano, 5. Hildemaro, 6. Erick Franchesky, 7. La Salsa Mayor, 8. Paquito Barón, 9. Mariana (La Sonera de Venezuela), 10. Los Generales de la Salsa, 11. La Dimensión de Siempre, 12. La Constelación, 13. Magia Caribeña, 14. La Orquesta de Franklyn y Alonso, 15. Cheo Valenzuela, 16. El Pavo Frank Hernández, 17. Canelita Medina, 18. Trina medina, 19. Rodrigo Mendoza, 20. Cesar Monges (Albóndiga y su Pandilla), 21. Roxana, 22. Wilmer Cobos, 23. Jimmy (El León), 24. Mundito y su Orquesta Celestial, 25. Edgard Rodríguez (El Abuelo), 26. Orquesta Caché, 27. Pasión Juvenil, 28. Wilmer Lozano, 29. Wiwi Buznego, 30. Orquesta Filarmónica Nacional, 31. Argenis Carruyo, 32. Julio Moreno, 33. Pedro Santana, 34. Reinaldo Torcat (Orquesta la Manzana), 35. Pedro Méndez y su Orquesta, 36. Tommy Mata, 37. Descarga Criolla de Pibo Márquez, 38, Orquesta Los Satélites, 39. Wilman Cano, 40. Bazil Alexander, 41. Oscar D´León, 42. José Madera Niño (3er Mundo), 43. Machado y su Orquesta 210, 44. Orquesta La Negramenta, 45. Carlitos Guzmán y su Orquesta, 46. Frank Márquez (El Ingeniero del Timbal), 47. Los Soneros de La Calle, 48. Orquesta Calle Luna, 49. Lisandro Torres y su Orquesta, 50. Luis Conny, 51. Adrián Marchán, 52. Roberto Antonio, 53. Mireya, 54. Marco Toro y su Ensamble, 55. Orquesta Selecto, 56. Orquesta Puerto Rico es Salsa, 57. Charanga Cien Fuegos, 58. Orquesta Tierra en Trance, 59. Swing Band, 60. Orquesta Camagüey, 61. Tito Gamero y su Orquesta, 62. María José Estrella y su Grupo, 63. Milenio Banda Show, 64. Orquesta Entre Panas, 65. Orquesta La Trayectoria, 66. Orquesta Los Latinos, 67.?Mayito Rivera, 68. Louis Cuellar, 69. Wito Rodríguez, 70. Jairo Andrade y Charlie Andrade (Los Andrade), 71. Siguarajazz Orquesta, 72. Alejo Beltrán, 73. Mauro Mosquera, 74. Sammy Marrero y su Orquesta El Trovador de la Salsa, 75. Mario Kaona y su Orquesta, 76. Diego Velasco (D´Velasco), among others.

Currently, he records songs for his solo record productions, teaches vocal technique classes in Medellin, Colombia: vocal coach and recordings vocals or leading voice for other artists.

He participated in the symphonic Latin concert of radio station Latin Stéreo Medellín, in which he interpreted the work Hommy of master Larry Harlow and the always cheerful theme by Raphy Leavitt, accompanied by the Symphonic Orchestra of the University of Antioquia. Finally, Gustavo Gerardo reiterated the invitation to the Gala Night this Saturday, November 2 at the Santo Juan Nueva Era club in Medellin.

For bookings, please contact him at +57 323 5116736 with his legal representative Sonsireth Perdomo. From “Salsa Escrita” the salsa column and from this servant Carlos Colmenárez, we wish all success to this extraordinary Venezuelan vocalist.

Negramenta Orchestra

One of the Venezuelan salsa bands with greater international projection "La Negramenta", an orchestra formed in 1998 by Pedrito Linares and Willians Castillo, with the idea of highlighting all the contribution that Barlovento has given to salsa. In 2008 they recorded their first production "Cosas de negros". "La Negramenta" has its origin in the "Orquesta Magistral", founded by Pedro "Saba" Linares. The name of the group "Negramenta", is given to highlight the gentilicio, ideals and feelings of its people. — Negramenta from Barlovento and its black guy stuff

Negramenta from Barlovento and its black guy stuff.

It is the turn of one of the most onternationally recognized Venezuelan salsa bands “La Negramenta”, an orchestra formed in 1998 by Pedrito Linares and Willians Castillo, with the idea of highlighting all the contribution given by Barlovento to salsa. They managed to record in 2008 their first production “Cosas de negros”. “La Negramenta” has its origin in the “Orquesta Magistral”, founded by Pedro “Saba” Linares. The name of the group “Negramenta”, is given to highlight the kindness, ideals and feelings of its people.

They have recorded the following productions: “Cosas de negros volume 2”, “Otra cosa”, “Pa’los cuatro vientos” and “Libre”. The list of their successes includes: Aquí no se rinde nadie, Música negra, No me caso, La ley y Pedrito el lento; by the way, these last two songs reached the top ten brands in the Latin environment of New York, Miami, Peru and Colombia.

The staff of “La Negramenta” is made up of: Wiwi Buznego, Anthoni Ramos and Noel Alexánder Machado (vocalists), Heyzer Cabrera (bongo and chorister), Renzo Hernández (tombales), Mauricio Landaeta (timbales), Willie Melo (piano), Franklin Rodríguez and Joel Brito (trombones), Luis Allen and Ignacio Blanco (trumpets), Wílmer Maestri (sax), Willians Castillo (bass and musical direction), Pedro Linares (composer and general director), Celedonio Martínez (production and animation).

La Negramenta’s contacts for booking are: +58 414 2988874 and +58 426 5132334

Orquesta Negramenta Los Buenos — Negramenta Los Buenos Orchestra

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Gerardo Rosales meets Orlando Poleo, who invites him to study Afro-Caribbean percussion in Caracas

Gerardo Rosales was born on July 6, 1964, in Caracas, Venezuela. He has been living in the Netherlands since 1993.

At the age of 8 he started studying piano and at the same time he became interested in playing congas and bongo.

In 1977, at the age of 13, he met Orlando Poleo, who invited him to study Afro-Caribbean percussion at the “Taller de Arte” in the Sarría neighborhood in his hometown Caracas.

From 1977 to 1980, he studied congas and bongo with Orlando Poleo, and timbales with Alberto Borregales.

In 1985, he studies Afro-Venezuelan percussion with Alexander Livinali at the “Fundación Bigott”.

In 1987 Gerardo starts his career with very important figures such as: Soledad Bravo, Cecilia Todd, Canelita Medina, Alberto Naranjo y el Trabuco Venezolano, Maria Rivas, Joe Ruiz, Ilan Chester, Orquesta Café, Trina Medina y Yarake, Victor Cuica among others.

At the same time, Gerardo began his own orchestra called “Salsa 70” and with it he toured the neighborhoods, theaters and night spots of the capital.

In 1992, he receives an invitation to participate in the Expo Sevilla in Spain, with the group ‘Caracas Son 7’.

From that moment on he decided to settle in Europe. In 1993, he releases his first CD “Gerardo Rosales y su Salsa Pa’lante”, in Spain, which was recorded in Venezuela.

At the same time, Gerardo started his own orchestra called "Salsa 70" and with it he toured the neighborhoods, theaters and nightclubs of the capital. — In 1992, he received an invitation to participate in the Expo Sevilla in Spain, with the group “Caracas Son 7”.

From this moment on he is invited to work in France with Alfredo Rodriguez and Orlando Poleo; in Germany with Conexión Latina and Nicky Marrero and in Holland with Saskia Laroo, Jose Avila y su Quimbombo and Cedric Dandaree. In 1995, Paquito D’Rivera invited him to participate in the recording of the CD “Bebo rides again” together with the legendary Cuban pianist Bebo Valdés.

From 1996 until now, Gerardo Rosales has been touring Europe with his own salsa and Latin jazz projects. Gerardo has earned the respect and admiration of the public through his concerts and recordings, managing to spread and project rhythms from Venezuela, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Peru, Curaçao, Suriname and the Caribbean.

In 2002, he produced the music for the film “Madamme Jeanette” directed by Paula van der Oest which was nominated for an Oscar as a Dutch film.

These are the titles of his CDs: “Salsa pa lante” (1992), “Venezuela Sonora” (1996), “Señor Tambó” (1998), “El Venezolano” (1999), “Rítmico & Pianístico” (2001), “La Salsa es mi Vida” (2001), Tribute to Fania all stars (2003), Charanga La Crisis “Salsa Antigua” (2005), Mongomania “Tribute to Mongo Santamaria.

Gerardo Rosales has accompanied on tours, recordings and performances in Europe artists such as:

Dee Dee Bridgewater, Benny Bailey, Paquito D Rivera, Bebo Valdés, Toots Thielemans, Jimmy Bosch, Juan Pablo Torres, Herman Olivera, Oscar D’León, José Alberto “El Canario”, Andy Montañéz, Meñique, Edy Martínez, Carlos “Patato” Valdés, Conexión Latina, Orlando Valle “Maraca”, Alfredo Rodríguez, Armando Peraza, Luisito Quintero, Robert Quintero, Ramón Valle, Larry Harlow, Adalberto Santiago, Frankie Vázquez, Oscar Hernandez, Africando, Chamaco Rivera, Luisito Carrion, Jorge Herrera, Edgar Dolor, Dorance Lorza, Ajo Porro, Luisito Rosario, David Cada and Tito Allen.

Discography by Gerardo Rosales:

Gerardo Rosales has accompanied artists on tours, recordings and performances in Europe — Discography by Gerardo Rosales:

2019 Gerardo Rosales “Cachandera and Singapore Vibes” (Single)

2016 Gerardo Rosales “Salsa Vintage” (Download – CD )

2014 Gerardo Rosales “Son Del Sofa” (Single) ITunes

2013 Gerardo Rosales “Síguelo” (CD)

2011 Gerardo Rosales “Chano Pozo’s Music” (CD)

2011 Gerardo Rosales “30 Aniversario” (CD)

2010 Cachao Sounds “La Descarga Continúa” (CD)

2010 Gerardo Rosales “Buscando Chamba” (CD)

2009 Venezuelan Masters Orchestra “Toros y Salsa” (CD)

2008 Gerardo Rosales “Salsa Mundial” (CD)

2007 Our Latin Groove “Bringin’ it All On Back” (CD)

2005 Gerardo Rosales “Mongomanía” (CD)

2005 Charanga La Crisis “Salsa Antigua” (CD)

2004 Gerardo Rosales “Tribute to Fania” (CD)

2001 Gerardo Rosales “La Salsa es mi Vida” (CD)

2001 Gerardo Rosales & Edy Martínez “Rítmico y Pianístico” (CD)

1999 Gerardo Rosales “El Venezolano” (CD)

1998 Gerardo Rosales “Señor Tambó” (CD)

1996 Gerardo Rosales “Venezuela Sonora” (CD)

1992 Gerardo Rosales “Salsa Pa’lante de Venezuela” (CD)

1991 Gerardo Rosales “Salsa Pa’Lante de Venezuela” (33 RPM Vinyl)

Discography of Gerardo Rosales with other artists:

Orquesta Cafe “Criollisima” 1987 (Fama) Venezuela ( Salsa )
Joe Ruiz – Javier Plaza – Jose Torres – Gerardo Rosales

Bebo Valdes “Rides Again” 1994 ( Messidor) Germany ( Latin Jazz )
Bebo Valdes – Paquito D Rivera – Patato Valdes – Amadito Valdes – Gerardo Rosales

Conexion Latina – “La Conexion” 1996 (Enja) Germany ( Salsa )
Rudi Fuesers – Leslie Lopez- Anthony Martinez – Nicky Marrero – Gerardo Rosales

David Rohschild “Looking Up” 1997 (Via) The Netherlands ( Salsa )
David Rothschild – Adalberto Santiago – Banjamin Herman – Gerardo Rosales

Leslie Lopez “Bomba Moderna” 1999 (Buitenkunst) The Netherlands (Latin Jazz)
Leslie Lopez – Ramon Valle – Joe Rivera – Nils Fischer – Gerardo Rosales

The Rosemberg Trio “Suenos Gitanos” 2001 (Polydor) The Netherlands ( Latin )
Rosemberg Trio – Toots Thielemans – Leonardo Amuedo – Gerardo Rosales

Ronal Snijders “Bijlmerjazz 2004 (Independent) The Netherlands (Jazz)
Ronal Snijders – Randal Corsen – Jesse van Ruller – Gerardo Rosales

Cubop City Big Band “Arsenio 2004 (Tam Tam) 2004 The Netherlands (Cuban)
Lucas van Merwijjk – Edy Martinez – Nelson Gonzalez – Gerardo Rosales

Drums United “World of Rhythm” 2006 (Tam Tam) 2004 The Netherlands (World Music)
Lucas van Merwijk – Nils Fischer – Aly N ‘ Diaye Rose – Gerardo Rosales

Samba Salad – Metropol Orkest “Live Vredenburg” 2006 The Netherlands (World Music)
Herman Link – Dick Bakker – Maurice Luttikhuis – Rita Iny – Gerardo Rosales

Aquilez Baez “ La Patilla” 2007 (Cacao) Venezuela (Latin Jazz)
Aquilez Baez – Anat Cochen – Huascar Barradas – Diego Alvarez – Gerardo Rosales

Maria Catharina “Obsecion” 2010 (Independent) The Netherlands (Jazz)
Maria Catharina – Adinda Meertins – Thomas Bottcher – Marc Bischoff – Gerardo Rosales

Masalsa “Resurreccion” 2012 (Independent) The Netherlands (Salsa)
Soeshiel Sharma – Ray de La Paz – Marcos Bermudez – Cachito Vaz – Gerardo Rosales

Izaline Calister “Kandela” 2012 (Coast to Coast) The Netherlands (Latin)
Izaline Calister – Yumarya – Vernon Chatlein – Larc Alban Lotz – Gerardo Rosales

Africando “Viva Africando” 2013 (Sterms Music) France (Salsa)
Boncana Maiga – Oscar Hernandez – Doug Beavers – Luisito Quintero – Gerardo Rosales

Mezcolanza “Headbanger” 2015 (O.A.P Records) The Netherlands (Jazz)
Peter Wenk – Chistof May – David Barker – Mick Paauwe – Gerardo Rosales

Tango Extremo “ Havana” 2015 (JWA) The Netherlands (Latin)
Ben van den Dungen – Rob van Kreeveld – Tanya Schaap – Gerardo Rosales

Orquesta La Potente “ Potente “ 2018 (Independent) Colombia (Salsa)

Coco Ramirez – Guarnizo – Gerardo Rosales

Barry Hay & JB Meijers (Universal Music Group) 2019 The Netherlands ( Pop)

Barry Hay – JB Meijers – Gerardo Rosales.

Gerardo Rosales

( Salsa – Latin – Jazz – Cuban )

Bands – Percussion Workshops – DJ – Percussionist – Shows

+31627862001

[email protected]

The Netherlands

Professor MSc. Carlos Colmenárez and his “WRITTEN SALSA”

By: Professor MSc. Carlos Colmenárez (Venezuela)

Greetings, dear and consistent readers of Salsa Escrita, from this server, your longtime friend, Professor MSc. Carlos Colmenárez. It is a great satisfaction for me to be able to reach all of you through International Salsa Magazine, to whom I am very grateful for your trust and thus be able to make known the Venezuelan salsa talent and also from other countries, where Afro-Latin music continues and will continue to be projected and promoted with much professionalism in its prestigious pages.

In this issue of Salsa Escrita, we bring you four exponents of Afro-Caribbean music, born in Venezuela, who exalt the genre with great class and success, earning the respect and admiration of all its followers. So, ladies and gentlemen, we present to you in special reviews Hildemaro “El Sonero del Amor”, Mariana “La Sonera de Venezuela”, Édgar “Dolor” Quijada and Héctor “Malecón”. We hope you enjoy the written interaction between you and International Salsa Magazine.

Hildemaro “The Sonero of Love”

On this occasion we will mention a vocalist who has stood out for his excellent interpretive quality and professionalism during his long and successful career, both in Venezuela and abroad; we refer to José Hildemaro Hugas Amarista, better known as Hildemaro “El Sonero del Amor”.

The Venezuelan singer-songwriter, born in Caripito, Monagas state, on November 10, 1957, told us that his musical interests came from a very young age, participating in festivals in his home state and musical groups in that locality, until he was presented with the opportunity to go to Caracas in 1976 and join the orchestra “Los Satélites”; Then in 1979 he joined the “Orquesta Ideal”; later he worked with the “Súper Combo los Tropicales”, “Noche Caliente” and the “Orquesta de Porfi Jiménez”; and finally in 1985 he joined Renato Capriles’ orchestra “Los Melódicos”, which gave him the greatest and best experience.

The following year,” Hildemaro continued, “he decided to definitely make his way as a salsa performer, recording his first LP under the TH label, thanks to his music producer, José “El Flaco” Bermúdez, and since then he has remained in his project of a fruitful singing career.

In 1988 he recorded his album “Amanecí contigo”, propelling it into the international market, hitting his songs with great acceptance, both in Venezuela and abroad, showing his face in the country as a salsa performer before the world.

Peru was his first point of attack, as well as the United States, and with that goal he was always renewing his repertoire.

In 1989 he recorded the production “Sin Tabú”, winning a gold record and triumphing on stages in Panama, Mexico, Colombia and New York; In 1990 he recorded the acetate “Romántico y sensual”, with which he demonstrated once again that he has one of the best voices in Latin American and Caribbean salsa, qualities that were also captured in his 4th album entitled “Lo mejor de mi” in 1991, later in 1993 he released his 5th LP “Al natural”, two years later the long play “Lo que siento” in 1995 and in 1996 the album “La mejor salsa con Hildemaro”.

In 2002 and 2003, he burst again into the radio stations nationally and internationally with 2 singles: “Corazón loco” and “El celular”, with which he once again demonstrated his great vocal capacity.

Among his best known hits are: The first time, Hola, Amanecí contigo, Desde el fondo de mi corazón, Negra, Agua caliente, Sin tabú, Al natural, Apago la luz, Como nadie, Cabalgaremos, Lucero and many more.

At the present time it comes from succeeding in Peru, Colombia, Spain, Italy and Sweden. In Venezuela she works with her own orchestra “Caripito all Stars”.

Finally she told us “El Sonero del Amor” that she registered her foundation “Hildemaro Hugas”, a non-profit organization to help children, elderly and people who deserve it.

By 2020, with God’s favor, he returns to the United States, where he is acclaimed by romantic dancers, just like in Peru, his second homeland. Hildemaro’s social networks are: Instagram @sonerodelamor, Facebook: José Hildemaro Hugas, phone: +58 412 2934606 and +58 416 0580079 for bookings.

Edgar “Dolor” Quijada

Édgar José Quijada, from January 23, Caracas. The man of "Pain", a name given to him by his brothers — Edgar “Dolor” Quijada

Sonero from A to Z, it’s that simple. Not everyone can be graded that way and not everyone has the privilege of being so. It is a title that must be achieved “on the go”, working very hard day and night. The “Masters” in sounding were Benny Moré and Ismael Rivera, to name the most significant.

In this regard, we must mention other vocalists of the stature of Cheo Feliciano, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Pete “El Conde” Rodriguez, Chamaco Ramirez and others of renown who took the baton; in the courtyard, Oscar D’Leon, Orlando Watussi, Mariana Guevara, Marcial Isturiz, Charlie Guzman, Ronald Gomez, among others, each with his own style and particularity. The one we will talk about today, has already occupied that place for years, I am referring to Edgar José Quijada, from January 23rd, Caracas. The man of “Pain”, an appellation given to him by his brothers.

In all his life he has not stopped singing and that comes from his mother. The trajectory of Édgar “Dolor” Quijada, born on March 21, 1954, dates from more than 40 years ago, since he began with the Yacambú Orchestra and later he was called to accompany national and international singers and to integrate orchestras such as: Década, Federico y su Combo, Los Incorregibles, Repicao, Soledad Bravo, Naty y su Orquesta, Guajeo, Cheo Feliciano, Celia Cruz, Johnny Pacheco, Pete “El Conde” Rodríguez, Adalberto Santiago, Ismael Miranda, Ismael Rivera, Larry Harlow, Héctor Lavoe and Justo Betancourt.

Since the founding of Cheo Navarro’s Orquesta Bailatino 23 years ago, he has been one of its performers along with Rónald Gómez and Francisco Rojas. His hits include: Mi vecina, Tengo la piel cansada de la tarde, A donde está Margot, Loco en la vía and many more. He is also the vocalist of El Guajeo de Alfredo Naranjo, Orquesta Tributo, Los 12 Apóstoles; as well as his solo performances in shows at the national and international level.

Finally, Edgar “Dolor” Quijada told us that he is currently based in Bogota, Colombia, with new musical projects. Social networks: Instagram @edgardolor; Facebook: Édgar Quijada, telephone for bookings: +57 301 6593904.

Hector “Malecon”

Héctor Luis Montes González, artistically known as “Héctor Malecón”, born on April 3, 1988 — Hector “Malecon”
of Barquisimeto

In Barquisimeto, a city known as the “Musical Capital of Venezuela”, there are musicians and vocalists of extraordinary quality, and on this occasion we will mention the singer, sonero and composer, Héctor Luis Montes González, known artistically as “Héctor Malecón”, born on April 3, 1988 and since his childhood he has lived in the El Malecón neighborhood of our twilight city; His musical beginnings were inspired by the composition of songs and by the mythical-religious influence, they motivated him to write and to interpret his first single titled “A la Reina”, in honor to María Lionza.

In April 2012, he decided to gather a group of young musicians from his neighborhood and formed a salsa group, calling it “Orquesta Malecón”, thus beginning his successful career with musical director César Salas and arranger Rubén Levy.

Some songs from their first recording production and authorship are A la Reina, Acepto mi error, Flor de mayo, Qué es lo que te pasa, Mejor plato, Castillo de arena y el Despojo; which you can enjoy on Youtube.

Likewise, he has shared the stage with the Lebrón Brothers, the Dimensión Latina, Bailatino, Orquesta La Salsa Mayor, Grupo Mango, Porfi Baloa y sus Adolescentes, Mariana La Sonera, Édgar “Dolor” Quijada, Hildemaro, Rónald Gómez, among others.

In 2016, he obtains the 1st place in the contest “Dile no a la Payola” of the PDVSA La Estancia Salsa Festival in Caracas and is later applauded by the Caracas salsa sovereign in the Diego Ibarra Square and El Poliedro.

Currently, Héctor Luis, becomes known with his project “Héctor Malecón” and from his own inspiration is promoted with his song “Quieres volver”, through @hectormalecon.

Finally, he declares that he was temporarily based in the city of El Callao, Peru, demonstrating his talent and affinity as lead vocalist of the orchestra “Son D’ Kalibre”, performing group songs and great salsa hits, under the direction of Rubén Medina and integrated by Venezuelan and Peruvian musicians.

At present, already in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, he has planned to structure his new orchestra, with new themes of his own inspiration, to put all salsa lovers to dance. His social networks are: Instagram @hectormalecon; Facebook: Héctor Malecón, for bookings by phone +58 412 7720290.

Mariana “La Sonera de Venezuela”

One of the most emblematic characters of Venezuelan salsa is Janett Guevara García, known artistically as Mariana “La Sonera de Venezuela”; she was born in Caracas and currently lives in La Guaira. Since she was a child she showed her taste for music; activity that has been her eternal passion and has led her to make 12 record productions.

Mariana started with Naty Martínez’s Orchestra and has been supported by the Fania Stars, José Alberto “El Canario”, the Gran Combo of Puerto Rico and her great friend Oscar D’León, who has advised and helped her so that, throughout her career, the responsibility of being the sonera of Venezuela falls on her.

Mariana has had the opportunity to alternate with groups of the stature of the Orquesta de La Luz, Grupo Niche, Guayacán, El Canario, Gran Combo de Puerto Rico and la Sonora Ponceña. Among her songs are: Frases hechas and Eres más fuerte que yo.

It is worth mentioning that, among the numerous recognitions received, he was awarded directly from Miami and presented in Caracas by Richard Roman and Nohemy Chavez, the “Salsa Superior” prize, which among those who have it, are Luigi Texidor, Roberto Roena, La Dimensión Latina and Rubén Blades, among other salsa figures. The sonera is worthy of this plaque thanks to God and her public who have supported her during her 30 year artistic career.

The “Sonera” is part of the orchestra “Rumberos del Callejón”, “Los 12 Apóstoles” and also has its own group. Incidentally, she was honored in the city of Barquisimeto in 2018 with the unveiling of a mural in her honor on Oscar D’Leon Boulevard.

She will soon be making musical tours throughout the country and abroad. Among his latest works, he recorded the song “Mulata guerrera”, by Puerto Rican composer Eduardo Zayas, included in the production “Entre Titanes”, which featured the participation of figures such as Marcial Istúriz, Rodrigo Mendoza, Édgar “Dolor” Quijada, Efrén Avellaneda, Noel Machado, Choco Orta, Yomar Méndez “Caballo”, Leo Pacheco Jr.

For hiring Mariana “La Sonera de Venezuela”, you can do it by: +58 414 2921521 y +58 416 0580079. Her social networks are: Instagram @sonsonera1, Facebook: Mariana La Soner