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Search Results for: Son

DJ. Andy and his Salsa Council

I have known DJ. Andy since he was the resident DJ. at the Embassy Suites in Isla Verde (Puerto Rico) for the salsa nights that I remember attending religiously every Saturday.

However, everything changed when one Saturday night we went to the weekly event as usual.  There we realized that DJ Andy was no longer there.  They say that necessity is the mother of invention.  It must have been out of sheer necessity that the man who would later become DJ Louie Love suddenly learned to play records on his own and without having planned it quite abruptly.

So, years later, destiny took me to the American capital because of a highlight of which there is no longer only the memory.  From that highlight that I would like to forget, in Washington, DC I remember with a deep affection to have met again with the one who had already been called “the most danceable”: DJ Andy.  Life and its twists and turns, we lost track of each other again until one day during one of my missions to New York I decided to go for a little dance without knowing that there I would meet again with DJ Andy.  Andy was already making his way in the Big Apple, the same place where salsa was cooked more than half a century ago.

Anyway, what we came to, to share with you my impression of the third album in which DJ Andy immerses himself in a parallel way in his facet as executive producer.  So, I am reviewing this catchy collection of fifteen tracks because I loved the programming and the variety of what I consider a very complete album, while achieving a first class musical performance.

Consejo Salsero (Venezuela All Stars)

Consejo Salsero (Venezuela All Stars) Despite being performed by Venezuela All Stars, the arrangement of this salsa song is in the best New York style and very well done.
DJ. Andy and his Salsero Council

Despite being performed by Venezuela All Stars, the arrangement of this salsa song is in the best New York style and very well done.  The title track opens the listener’s senses in an invasive but good way; something like a sure way to arouse curiosity about the production and the tracks that follow it.  Marcial Istúriz is as always a sure shot.  Good voice, impeccable rhythm and one of those sonorous sounds that could make him the new owner of sonorous music.  I summarize here from my corner without offending anyone, Marcial is a great sonero.

The son came to the city (Secreto a Voces)

If not the most, one of the most danceable songs of the production. Bravo!

Como se atreve (Renzo Padilla y su orquesta)

The singer’s voice is fresh and synchronized with the kind of lyrics that ask for another chance and shout sincerity.  Before the second minute, the bongo takes over the transition announcing the mambo and the take-off of the “trip” injected by the pregones and the play on words in the soneos.  The winds are carried by a trombone played with cleanness and precision.  The end is announced with a percussive interplay between the winds and the piano, which almost takes center stage without dulling the leather beats.

Señora Rumba (Julio Cortez and his court)

The singer, once again, fits the theme like a glove, since his voice recalls the metallic melody that a bravo theme requires.  The piano harmonizes perfectly with the coros and percussion.  Here there is a perfect harmony between piano, conga and timbales. It seems to me that I hear a xylophone flirting with the conga, without detracting from the piano.

Mary Juana (Carlos Guzmán y su orquesta)

The introduction of the song reminds me of the arrangements of the glory days of Orquesta La Solución, but with a bongó playing in the arrangement.  The trombones announce themselves early on and ask the bongo for permission to join them around the first minute.  The piano harmonizes and gives way to the brass without conflicting with the musical change that around the third minute adopts a style of those with which Wayne Gorbea established his sound.  Masterful the way in which the arrangement moves through varied styles without running over the flow of the music.

Salsa pa’ ti (Grupo Tahona)

This is a very heavy song, one of those that starts with the chorus without shyness.  The boldness of the arrangement threatens to go straight to the mambo in a very elegant way.  A gentle piano solo crosses over from a minute and a half in.  The piano solo gives way to a melodic trumpet solo that doesn’t allow screaming.  The conga takes the lead from just before the third minute, making sure that the brass does its thing, in anticipation of the return of a piano that dictates the chords of the distant line.  All in all, this is a very tasty track.

Quiéreme (Gumby Navedo and his orchestra)

The interpretation sounds great and the singer’s voice is one of those indisputable and unforgettable ones.  The lyrics are worthy of the interplay between the saxophones and the rest of the wind instruments.  At three and a half minutes the pregón changes with a lot of class and distinction before handing over to the saxophones at the end to give way to the closing, which the cueros make precise.

I come from New York (Son del monte)

The flute enters quite early and quite forcefully.  The violins match the flutes and the typical charanga bell ringing.  I imagine that Andy wanted to include a variety of rhythms within the range of Afro-Caribbean rhythms and manages in the process to give us a complete collection.  Even dancing pachanga doesn’t let us forget. Thank you!

Vengo del Congo (Julio Estrada y su orquesta)

The arrangement of the song is one of those classics that could be used as an example to demonstrate the salsa sound without pretension or fuss to anyone who has never heard salsa before.  At two and a half minutes, Julio Estrada plays a heavy piano solo before the mambo enters in all its splendor.  Winds, timbales, conga and piano come together to take us on a journey into a synchronized, non-competitive melody.

Pa’l bailador (La Negramenta)

The introduction of this unquestionably salsa song gives prominence to the baritone saxophone in a flirtation that walks between salsa and boogaloo. However, the boogaloo sound is short-lived, giving way to a well-defined, traditional salsa.  At the third minute, the trumpets enter in correspondence with the percussion. At minute 3:45, the conga takes over the distant line, giving way to the trumpets and timbales, announcing that the song is elegantly descending in intensity.

El rumbero (Leo Pacheco Jr. y su orquesta)

This song wants to highlight the essence of African music within the salsa music made in Venezuela.  This arrangement seems to be inspired by the evolutionary inventions that today are a winning formula.  I am referring to the adjustments that Bobby Valentín made, at the request of maestro Willie Rosario.  The big difference is that this arrangement is somewhat louder than the ones that started this formula several decades ago.  The trombone and conga take over, anticipating “salsa, guaracha y bembé” as the song says.

Nací pa’ cantar (Wiwi Buznego y su orquesta)

The song is pure salsa, conga, pregones and lots of rhythm for the dancer who responds to a fluid arrangement without much distraction.  The first significant percussive cut that captures the dancer’s attention hits the senses at minute fifteen (1:15).  From then on, the performer plays between conga beats, trumpet blasts, pregones and soneos.  The mambo is unforgiving and if the dancer lets himself be carried away by the music, he can feel it to the last drop of blood running through his veins.

Camina y ven (Charanga Masters)

A Cuban song from the heart made in the best charanga format, taking into account that technology allows to improve the sound of the past.  The flute and violins play with the percussion in a daring way, modernizing what was the charanga in its original form.

Mi propuesta (Robert Burgos and Descarga Zason)

The closing track travels to Cuba in pure timba sound.  The singer harmonizes perfectly with the arrangement and the execution of the orchestra, his voice being the typical Cuban voice that stands out in timba format.  Very successful to close the trip of the compact disc with timba.  Very well achieved farewell.

Although the release of this CD was in 2019, for me it is new.  So I take the trouble to assure you that if you listen to it you will love it.  If you dance, you’ll wear out your sole.  And if you don’t, you’ll be encouraged to learn to move your skeleton to the rhythm of this tasty treat.

DJ. Andy el mas Bailable de New York
DJ. Andy el mas Bailable de New York

 

Thanks, Andy, congratulations!

Facebook: Andy Rodríguez

By: Bella Martinez “La Escritora Irreverente de La Salsa”

Puerto Rico

WebSite: Bella Martinez

Article of Interest: From Italy Albert Giorgio Giovanni DJ. Lindo Salsa and Bachata

Tribute to Jerry Gerónimo García and other things to come

Ray Carrion & The Latin AllStars at the tribute to event promoter Jerry Geronimo Garcia 

Poster for the tribute to Gerónimo García
Poster for the tribute to Jerry Gerónimo García

On September 12 this year, the steak house Steve’s Steak House & Seafood House meat restaurant put on its finest to receive the tribute to the great event promoter Jerry Geronimo Garcia, who is highly respected in the entertainment industry. Garcia has been in charge of hosting all kinds of concerts and musical events at the aforementioned venue, so the place presented a tribute to both this important figure for the restaurant and his family. 

The celebration of the life and legacy of this promoter was highlighted by the presence of the noted musician and event organizer Ray Carrion & The Latin AllStars. Both Carrion and his band once again showed how talented they are on stage, letting us see their gratitude to the promoter for each and every one of the artists and groups he made famous by keeping them in mind for any of the performances planned for the restaurant.   

Garcia gave many the opportunity they needed to shine on stage when no one else would. As the promotional poster indicates, it was time for him to be compensated for what he has done for so many people. 

This is Ersi Arvisu
Ersi Arvisu performing

Conversation with Ray Carrión about this and other upcoming projects 

During a telephone conversation with Carrion, he said he was honored to be part of the event and highlighted the great role that Jerry has had in the emergence of new generations of Latin music artists in recent years. He also spoke of other projects to be undertaken for the coming months. One of them is a concert entitled Ladies Rule, which will feature a group of famous female performers whose talent will vibrate the audience at the VFW Hall Post 1944. 

Among the stars who will be present that night, one in particular stands out and that is Ersi Arvisu, the leader of the group El Chicano. This rock group has also mixed their work with jazz, R&B and Latin rhythms of East Los Angeles, which is why they have always been well-loved and well received by the Latino community in the aforementioned city. That is why there is no doubt that the public will open its arms to her in this and all the presentations that are to come. 

The concert will also have the participation of other great talents such as Brittany Nicole, Elvia Cadena, Nira, and DJ Arlene Soulera. It was reported that Nira will be sharing the stage with Ray Carrion & The Latin AllStars at the same time to perform a common song. 

It was also announced that the general admission will be $40 and the VIP ticket will be $50. It is important to note that returns will not be accepted because the sale of tickets is final, so attendees are asked to plan accordingly in order to avoid any inconvenience at the gates of the show.   

This is Ray Carrion
Ray Carrion with his guitar

For more information about this and other events related to Carrion and his band, please visit his website www.carrionevents.com or call 323-895-2836. 

By: Bryan “scorpio” Astrachan correspondent of International Salsa magazine Los Ángeles, California

Dallas becomes the capital of bachata in October 2021

What the Dallas Bachata Festival is

Dallas Bachata Festival Logotype
Dallas Bachata Festival 2021 logotype

The Dallas Bachata Festival is a celebration in which Latin music and dance have a leading role, but there are so many other things to see besides that. Among the many things that this great event offers its assistants, we can include amazing dance workshops that specialise in salsa, bachata, kizomba, zouk, and many other dancing musical genres. That is why its organisation team has made a genuine effort to get the best instructors to teach the best classes their students have ever had. 

There was a lot of doubt about the realization the festival for the year 2021, as the Dallas Bachata Festival had previously been suspended last year. However, it was recently announced that its organizers have decided to hold it this year without any further delay. All efforts have been made to carry out this great set of activities, including the obedience of all the protocols required by the health authorities in order to avoid the spread of COVID-19 among those attending. 

People dancing at the Dallas Bachata Festival
Some dancers at the Dallas Bachata Festival

what about costs and dates?

Given that the event already has specific scheduled dates, costs, guests and activities have been announced via the festival’s official Facebook page. According to the information published on the aforementioned social network, the general admission ticket is $125 and gives you access to all programmed activities during the three days of the event. Taking into account that all this will take place in a luxurious hotel in the city, those interested can also book a room, which will cost $109 per night. In case they want to pay for a double room, the price must be over $129 per night.   

As of now, those who want to live the unwinding experience will be able to reserve their places at the event during the days of its realization, even if it has to be postponed once again. As it happened once before, the festival had to be postponed due to the spread of the pandemic, but the organizers were fast enough at the moment of responding to the return of the money invested by the attendees or using the payments made for the new dates. Now the same thing will happen here. If the event is canceled for any reason, buyers can be assured that their money will be refunded or pledged to the new dates. 

On August 8, the organisation team made some major announcements about the event. One of them refers to the overwhelming speed with which the remaining passes are selling, so those interested have to hurry up to get one. October 4 will be the day when the sale of tickets will close, as there will be no sale at the doors to the event.   

Another of the announcements made was the implementation of a health protocol for the protection of attendees from COVID-19, which includes a negative PCR result or a rapid antigen test to detect the presence of the virus.   

Students ina dance class
Some students in a dance workshop

Further information can be found on the official Dallas Bachata Festival website at www.dallasbachatafestival.com or call 956-497-3450. 

Frequency 432 Hertz and what experts say on this issue

Some initial ideas about the frequency of 432 Hertz

The stress of daily life is extremely harmful to the health of any human being who gets it, so that is an issue that should be dealt with the seriousness it deserves. Fortunately, there is plenty we can do to combat this problem such as meditation, yoga or music. Concerning this last point, we can mention the frequency 432 Hertz, which has already been shown to have certain effects on sleep quality. There is still a lot of misinformation spread and incorrect data in respect of it, but here we will try to shed some light on this interesting topic. 

After a lot of research in this regard, it is already known that music can decrease the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which, in turn, results in a significant reduction in anxiety, blood pressure, heart rate and breathing. In addition, muscles relax considerably and the mind is distracted from the frantic thoughts that does not let it rest. It is thought that this set of tones has sleep-inducing properties, but there is still a lot to discover about this. Some musicians only refer to this frequency as a  calm, soft tone. 

Some frequencies
Here are some musical frequencies

What is the tuning of 432 Hertz? 

The tuning of 432 Hertz is name after the 432 oscillations it produces per second. The sounds that comprise the frequency tend to be a little deep and the link of the harmonics is carried out to perfection.   

It can also be defined as a clean frequency that has been widely used to break down mental barriers and promote a much deeper and more restful rest. Its greatest proponents claim that this combination of sounds has the ability to synchronize with the Universe’s energies, leading to a much healthier life for those who listen it. 

Studies done on the frequency 432 Hertz 

The miraculous frequency or frequency of happiness as some call it, has been extensively studied by the Department Physiology at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, which was based on the hypothesis that the 432 Hertz frequency induces sleep and decreases REM (Rapid Eye Movement) phase.   

According to the conclusions presented by the experts responsible for carrying out the experimentation necessary for the study, the tone showed promising effects on the electroencephalographic activity of the brain during a daytime nap period. The decrease in REM sleep latency suggests that the already mentioned musical frequency has a rather significant relaxation effect on a sleeping brain.  

a woman who sleeps
A lady who is sleeping

What the experts say 

To bring a clearer notion and a broader perspective on this topic, we have contacted M.D. Argelia Melet who is going to offer us her views on this frequency and the effects that it can have on those who ever listen to it. 

This is our conversation with her regarding this issue:  

What is the frequency 432 Hz? 

I would like to fisrt remember what a Hertz is, since the frequency 432 Hertz is expressed in that unitof measurement: A hertz is the frequency measurement unit of the electromagnetic field, including, of course, the acoustic one. These are waves that are propagated in space, carrying energy, but not matter. A Hertz measures how many times these waves repeat themselves in one second. So, then, the frequency 432 Hertz is nothing more than a 432-wave frequency in one second. In recent years, one issue that emerged among scholars of musicology, musicians, and academics who proposes 432 hertz as a frequency that is more “attuned ” to our physiological structure. Many people are in favour of this and also many others deny that there could be a difference. 

Having said this, the music industry uses the standard note A as tuning in the frequency of 440 hertz, but this was not always the case. Because it was in 1953 when the International Organization for Standardisation (known as ISO), imposed it as a pattern to tune and build most of the musical instruments. 

As for the frequency 432 Hertz, “it has been gaining popularity among the performers, because as it is played, it emits twelve harmonics, which involve the 12 notes of the chromatic scale. In the case of the frequency of 440 Hertz, it is although brighter, but involves only 8. Many early music interpreters, I among them, use the frequency 432 hertz. And the difference can be noticed” (personal communication). (*) 

What effects could you see? 

I am not an expert in music therapy, which has become a specialty discipline that includes many fields linked to the health profession and obviously much more to psychology and psychiatry.  But I have used certain Barroque pieces, particularly (Mozart, Pachelbel, Vivaldi) in some therapies known as “desensitization in fantasy”, which uses the patient’s imagination in a relaxed state to deal with situations that leads to anxiety with very good results. It has been successfully used in carcer patients or people with severe sickness to deal with these coplicated cases that create suffering.It is also used in pediatric dentistry and geriatrics. 

Differences between the Frequency 432 Hertz and others

I do not think I am capable of answering a question concerning a very specialized subject as is music …. Those who are in favour of the frequency 432 Hertz criticize the standard and explain that it increases tensions and fatigue in the listener. Instead, the frequency 432 Hertz can help to balance the mind causing further relaxation by listening to it and thus help to prevent future diseases. But controlled studies would be necessary to prove this statement. 

What kind of therapies with this frequency are used in people? 

Although I am not clear about this question, I assume that you are talking about which patients would benefit from these music therapies. At present, there is widespread use of music therapy (and I am talking about this and not about a particular frequency): its value in anxiety disorders, phobias, and dysfunctions such as attention deficit disorders is well known, and it is even starts being used in people with Alzheimer’s. Today, it is an important tool and it is believed that it will be useful in the future. There are even studies that link it to brain neuroplasticity. And here I would like to anwer tthe following question: yes, there are positive results in many areas of emotional, work, and social life. 

Would you recommend this therapy in insomnia and other sleep disorders? 

The question is whether I recommend it as a unique therapy or as a complementary therapy. In medicine you cannot act in a “religious” way and in this regard I mean discard any belief other than your own. Music therapy promotes relaxation, serenity, inner peace and, in that sense, it helps to reduce insomnia, nightmares or night terrors. But a lot of times, it will be necessary to combine it with other treatments. This always depends on the seriousness of the problem. 

As a doctor, would you consider that this frequency raises consciousness or achieves effects at levels higher than simply sleep improving? 

As to whether the frequency 432 Hertz raises consciousness, as the question puts it, I am not in a position to affirm or deny it. It may be necessary to specify that in our brain there are many types of waves of different frequencies.  

As to whether the frequency 432 Hertz raises consciousness, as the question puts it, I am not in a position to affirm or deny it. It may be necessary to specify that in our brain there are many types of waves of different frequencies. Brain waves regulate our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. They are measured in hertz or cycles per second and these electrical patterns are divided into five in human beings: gamma, beta, alpha, theta and delta.  For purposes of this presentation, I will just talk about alpha waves. The so-called Alpha waves predominate when the Central Nervous System is at rest, relaxed but awake and alert. If there is an alpha deficit, the individual has trouble relaxing. We would say that the brain is idling, relaxed and at rest, but ready for action if necessary at the same time. This frequency helps mental coordination, mind/body integration, calmness and alertness. Music therapy has been linked to the stimulation of alpha brain waves. 

However, we got a long way to go. The brain, the grand master of our lives, seems opposed to being discovered in all its magnificence. It is our “Moon’s far side”.  

(*) Professor Oscar Battaglini Suniaga. Msc in Musicology 

This is Dr. Argelia Melet
Psychiatrist Argelia Melet

What are the brain waves? 

As Dr. Melet has told us, brain waves play a fundamental role in the behavior of our brain and the way it works. Then we will classify brain waves according to their different types: 

  • Gamma: of all the types of brain waves, gamma brain waves are those that appear more frequently, but with a much smaller amplitude. Their most common presentation is 40 Hertz and it is believed that they are the waves that most relate to the process of conscious perception, although there is not yet wide agreement betwween scholars on the subject. 
  • Beta: these electromagnetic oscillations are those that are activated when the brain is in a certain kind of awareness in which a certain degree of attention is required, such as a speech delivered before an audience or a hard test. During this stage, waves have an greater frequency than the rest of its types. 
  • Alpha: these waves are usually more frequent than theta waves, but are related to a state of relaxation where the body has its eyes closed, but not asleep. They slow down when sleeping, but are altered when opening the eyes or thinking about doing it. 
  • Theta: Theta waves are generally associated with the early stages of sleep. Contrary to the case of beta waves, they make the body relax either when awake or when sleeping. 
  • Delta: these waves have an extremely low frequency, which means the brain is asleep and may even dream off in some cases.  there is potential for them appearing while in a coma or severe brain damage.
These are the brain waves
Classification of brain waves

Neurolinguistic programming and its use as a tool for mass manipulation 

It is the interchange of thoughts and habits through a set of techniques that involve perception and communication. It is also known as a branch of neuroscience that studies the connections between behavior, thought and language. There were many political personalities who saw huge potential in this tool and one of them was Josehp Goebbels, who soon found out that culture and language were two fundamental aspects in the achievement of his political objectives. 

It was this infamous character who gave rise to the study of what is now known as neuromarketing, in which seemingly insignificant details such as voice, tone, gestures, body language and even sounds are absolutely controlled. It is no coincidence that Goebbels took over German radio as a whole in order to monitor the programmes at will. Soon it becomes clear that the aim of this measure was not just to inform, but also to manipulate people’s thoughts and, as a reult, their way they talked and behaved in everyday life. 

One of the best examples was the installation of loudspeakers in various crowded public spaces such as squares or markets. As a result, those who were not attracted by the official programming ended up listening to it against their will. To that is added a loud siren that sounded each time there was an important announce to make, so everyone had to get closer to loudspeakers to hear what was being said. Anyone failling to do this was heavily criticized. 

The programming included Hitler’s speeches alternated with an set of cultural and cultural programs. There were not few state officials who insisted on the multiple mood benefits of listening to them, when the reality was that they sought to modify and manipulate people’s psyches by alternating musical pieces and sounds pleasant to the ear with the political statements they wanted to etch on the minds of citizens. Had the Nazi regime been pioneer in the use of certain sonic frequencies to generate reactions in brain waves? Had we ever been the victims of this type of manipulation without even noticing it? Only time and science will tell. 

Hitler and Goebbels
Joseph Goebbels, the man who took over German radio by order of Hitler

 

Broadcaster and event promoter Jesús “Chuy” Martínez’s life and career

Conversation with Jesús “Chuy Martínez

I had recently spoken with broadcaster and event promoter Jesús “Chuy” Martínez about his beginnings, career, experiences, unpublished facts and other details concerning his brilliant career in the entertainment world. Without further delay, we will carefully read his words and enjoy the stories he has to offer. 

This is jesús “Chuy Martínez
Jesús “Chuy” Martínez some years ago

Good morning, this is Karina Garcia, North America director for International Salsa Magazine. I am very happy today to have a very special guest, who is none other than broadcaster, promoter and organizer of events born in the Dominican Republic, specifically in the city of Pacheco, Jesus ¨Chuy¨ Martinez, with whom we will have the pleasure of talking. How are you today, Mr. Martinez?  

Very well. I am here ready for your interview. 

Okay, Mr. Martinez. You have a long and successful career in the world of the arts. Could you start telling us how it all started and what made you turn to the entertainment world? 

It all started in New York City in 1970 when I began to do activities in lakes. In New Jersey, there were many lakes and we started doing dances with Pete ¨el Conde¨ Rodriguez and many other orchestras. After doing a few activities in New York, I moved to the city of Los Angeles, where I worked for a radio station called 107.1 FM KMAX starting with two hours of tropical music and we lasted about three years. We started with two hours and then we had five hours per day. We were supported by some record labels that gave us all the music, especially Fania Records and TH Company. We brought all the music to Los Angeles, which was practically in its infancy. There was no tropical music. There were only three stations that were only dedicated to playing norteño music, so we were an option for the California audience. We had salsa, Merengue, Colombian, Venezuelan, New Yorker, and Puerto Rican music. We started the program with two hours a day, came to have five hours a day and it was a success for the public, but at that time, FM radio stations were only present in the houses. At that point, FM did not yet exist, which started appearing in cars and cassettes in 1979 or 1980. Prior to that, a thing called cartridge was used, but with the coming of FM stations in cars with cassettes, this frequency began to become stronger because people could still listen to the radio in their vehicles and homes. That was a process that in which made the radio strong and able to work with FM. I worked at KMX radio for about three years and then I went to other places like Radio Cali KLOVE as an account executive before I started a new program at KFOX 93.5 FM in 1982. At that time, we did activities in nightclubs like Virginia, Los Globos, Sombrero, among others, and we used the different orchestras of the time like the Siba orchestra and Azuquita Y Su Melao. All that was a process in the 70s. Then, we started in the 80’s to do FM radio with all the guarantee of the radio in the cars, which was when we began to work in discos like Candileja, La Bamba, and Escondite. Something important was the experience gained and, in view of my studies as a sound engineer, I learned a lot about equalization and all that stuff. I went to Cali, Colombia a few times and then to Venezuela, where I learned equalization and the system for discotheques. We had not only the 80’s, but many South Americans in Los Angeles like Venezuelans, Colombians, Ecuadorians, Peruvians, and Central Americans. Something that helped to internationalize the rhythm in Los Angeles was to take Saturdays and most Sundays to make projections at KFOX 93.5 FM. In the case of Saturdays, we had four hours of Central American music, we had a large audience of Salvadorans, Guatemalans, who listened to our program.   

Chuy Martínez interviewing
Jesús “Chuy” Martínez interviewing Oscar D’ León at Kfox 93.5 fm in 1990

All right. Taking into account the emergence of the FM frequency in cars, playback devices, the internet, and digital media, could you say that people like you have had to modernize and reinvent themselves to stay relevant in the market? 

That’s right. At the time of the existence of record companies like Fania, Sony, RMM, MP, everything was easy and everybody could project their music in the 80s and 90s. First, people used LPs and cassettes, but the first CDs began to appear in 1986, so no one wanted the old LPs and cassettes anymore. Music was played on the radio where I did my show and at KLOVE, where salsa artists like Grupo Niche with their song Cali Pachanguero were played. Then Marc Anthony and many other artists appeared, so record companies promoted you and you had the ease of projecting a singer, but by the year of 1996, people no longer wanted CDs because modern technology came in and everyone started downloading music with the new internet system. All of this has contributed to a total change and it is the same thing that exists now, which makes it difficult to project an orchestra or a soloist. There is no longer the question of radio promotion and now everything is digital, so we have had to adapt to the new technical internet system with all its means of communication. 

Would you consider that this new system has been beneficial to fans and detrimental to artists at the same time? 

That is right. They do not have the opportunities they had before. In the late 80’s and early 90’s, there were many record companies with which everyone could be promoted, facilitating the projection of an artist in the market quickly. Now it is different and a determining factor was the death of most of the good artists from Fania and other companies like Pacheco and Larry Harlow, so young people who want to project themselves do not have the record label and the CD. They have to use other methods such as the internet, the downloading songs, and the sale of songs. There are some DJs who are experts at downloading music and there are many channels focused on providing DJs with both video and audio. 

Poster announcing Oscar D' Leon and Grupo Niche's concert
Poster announcing Oscar D’ Leon and Grupo Niche’s concert at the Palladium Hollywood in 1987

There are many web portals dedicated to offering music through which people can get songs without even spending a cent, so the artist makes nothing to offer his art. 

That is true, but there are companies dedicated to selling songs on an individual basis. They can charge up to 99 cents per song and different things that have been invented. There are artists who gain some profit from selling their songs, but it is not what it used to be. In times gone by, people used to buy CDs, but now there are some DJs who are specialists in downloading music and connected to sites which offer the possibility to download videos and songs in exchange for a monthly allowance. I know about five DJs who have the ability to download songs, but it is not the same as before. We are in the year 2021 and things are not easy for new artists who are making themselves known because they no longer have so many benefits.  

Modern salsa and memorable experiences

What do you think of current salsa?  

There are quite a few orchestras here in Los Angeles, which perform at the Mayan, the Granada and Steve’s Steak House. There are many orchestras that project themselves through their performances, but with COVID-19, everything has gone way down in terms of concerts. We are doing concerts, but in a very limited way because the community had great fear of going to the venues, especially now that there is talk of the Delta variant. People are really scared and it is unbelievable what is going on in the California artistic scene, the world with the COVID problem and people’s fear of getting infected. That is why a large part of the population does not go to concerts, except for the youth that defies the moment and is not afraid. 

Poster made by KFOX 93.5 FM
Poster made by KFOX 93.5 FM, the radio station where Martínez worked

Could you tell me which venues are open for dancing salsa in Los Angeles? 

Granada, Steve’s Steak House and the Mayan are the most active for tropical music. The Mayan is hosting the largest number of concerts. Toño Rosario’s was a success and Jerry Rivera will come soon, so let’s see what happens. Other promoters are going to bring La Sonora Ponceña and different singers, but there is no certain that people will come for all that has happened. 

Could you tell me which is the most memorable experience you have had in your career? 

The most memorable experience was when Frankie Ruiz had a concert at the Bonaventure Hotel and the man went to jail the same day (laugh). That was the greatest trouble because there were so many people interested in seeing him and he never came. That was a really bad experience in life. I did a lot of dances with Oscar D’ León, Eddie Santiago, La Orquesta Inmensidad. The first time Grupo Niche came here in 1986, with whom we did dances with Oscar D’ León and La Misma Gente at the Hollywood Palladium. We also worked with Ray Barreto, Pastor López, Santiago Cerón, La Orquesta Inmensidad, Andy Montañéz, Lalo Rodríguez and many other artists. Before there were many orchestras in a single event, but now people get used to one orchestra and several DJs.  

A final message to those who go into the arts 

Tenacity and perseverance at work, Hard work, hard work, hard work. You should study the field when you want to do something, be sure that your idea is good and avoid failing.

Poster announcing Frankie Ruiz's concert
Poster announcing Frankie Ruiz’s concert at the Bonaventure Hotel in 1989

Website: Chuyradio.com 

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