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We continue working to enhance Salsa

This month I want to continue sharing good news for everyone in NY and in the Salsa world. On this occasion, Oscar Hernández and Spanish Harlem Orquesta join Spaha Salsa Gallery Museum. Oscar has donated an incredible piece that we will be exhibiting immediately.

Four times Grammy Award Winner, Oscar Hernández, has long been considered one of the most gifted and prominent pianist / arrangers on the contemporary Latin, Latin-jazz and salsa music scene. He has achieved legendary status for his prolific career spanning now over 40 years.

Hernández is the leader of the world renowned Spanish Harlem Orchestra. Won the Grammy for their second CD release, “Across 110th Street” and winning yet another Grammy with their 4th CD “Viva La Tradition” and won their 3rd Grammy with “Anniversary” in 2019. Oscar was the music producer as well as pianist / arranger on all CD’s.

Since the band’s inception in the year 2001, SHO has garnered numerous awards and world acclaim as one of the finest exponents of Salsa and Latin / Jazz music. Spanish Harlem Orchestra is generally considered one of the best Salsa & Latin Jazz Orchestras today and one of the finest music ensembles in the world.

The Bronx native has produced such artists as Ruben Blades, Paul Simon, Willie Colón “Carabali”, Daniel Ponce, Rafael Dejesus, Eddie Torres, Phil Hernandez, Steve Kroon, Juan Luis Guerra, etc.

In addition to being Rubén Blades pianist, arranger and musical director, Oscar Hernández has enjoyed a prolific musical career recording and performing with such world renown artists as Latin music king Tito Puente, Queen of Salsa Music Celia Cruz, Latin Pop Star Julio Iglesias, Juan Luis Guerra, Ray Barreto, Earl Klugh, Dave Valentin, Johnny Pacheco, Ismael Miranda, Pete “Conde” Rodríquez, Oscar De’ Leon, Luis “Perico” Ortiz, “Libre” “Grupo Folkorico Experimental “, Willie Colón, Kirsty MacColl, etc. Oscar’s musical exploits include working as Musical Director / Conductor, arranging and producing the music for “The Capeman,” pop-rock icon Paul Simon’s Broadway musical.

Oscar is also the music producer of “The Capeman” cast recording. Oscar was Musical Director / Arranger for the hit shows “Quén Mató a Hector Lavoe” and “La Lupe” at the 47th Street Theater. He was also, Music Supervisor / Arranger for the show “Four Guys named Jose & Una Mujer named María” Oscar also has released 2 CD’s as a solo artist, Oscar Hernández & Alma Libre, titled “The Art of Latin Jazz” and “Love The Moment ”on Origin Records. It is a true honor to have the donation of an incomparable musician like him in our museum. Thanks, Oscar!

Another of the great figures of the Spanish Salsa Harlem Orchestra is Luisito Quintero, the timbalero from Venezuela. Luisito Quintero was born in Caracas, Venezuela where he had his first contact with music. Cultural influences of Afro-Venezuelan rhythms were always present at home. His father, a highly respected percussionist, taught and encouraged Luisito to play the timpani in his teens.

Quintero continued to refine his playing level with the Venezuela Symphony Orchestra, where his technique for playing the timpani soon caught the attention of his colleagues. Subsequently, he joined the popular music groups Guaco and the Trabuco Venezolano and traveled with Oscar D ‘León with whom he achievedan important international projection. The live performances, recordings and projects in which he has participated are countless.

He has made his mark as a percussionist with figures such as Tito Puente, Eddie Palmieri, Marc Anthony, Gloria Estefan, Richard Bona, Jack Dejonette, Willie Colón, George Benson, Natalie Cole, Herbie Hancock, Nuyorican Soul, Masters at Work, and of course, The Spanish Harlem Orchestra. Luisito is part of the group Elements of life, with whom he has toured for the last years.

The band has shared stages with major artists in the market such as Robert Plant, Lauryn Hill and Alicia Keys, performing at festivals such as Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, North Sea Jazz Festival in Holland, Roskilde in Denmark, Blue Note in Japan, Jazz Cafe in London, England and the legendary New Morning Cafe in Paris, France. Without a doubt, an impressive and worth mentioning career.

And if we are talking about incredible careers in this edition, I can’t stop talking about Adalberto Santiago and the new projects of the 60th anniversary with great artists of the genre. This his time I can tell you about Cuco Peña’s string arrangements, the participation of Nelson Jaimes and, of course, the help of my friend Freddy Miranda. At 83 years old, he is still in the rumba. There is less and less to show the world this historical piece for the world of salsa.

Johnny Cruz and Adalberto Santiago - Salsa — Johnny Cruz and Adalberto Santiago – Salsa

I also want to remember Raphy Leavitt, on the fifth anniversary of her death on August 5. In 1970 Leavitt organized an orchestra that should have a different sound and style. He wanted to select the repertoire of songs of the orchestra with a particular, positive, social and even philosophical message; and founded “La Selecta”. Since its inception, La Selecta has featured Coamo-born Sammy Marrero as one of its singers.

Marrero, who has always been strongly influenced by the music of the Puerto Rican jíbaro, had an opportunity to teach his dramatic singing style in his first hits as the almost hymn “Jíbaro Soy”, a very patriotic and unusual Puerto Rican song, “Payaso”, and “The Good Shepherd”. However, it is in the band’s signature song, “La Cuna Blanca,” that Marrero’s voice is for the most part associated.

In the 1990s, he established his record recording company, R.L. Records. The company’s first production was the album titled “Provocame,” which became a hit in Puerto Rico, the United States, and South America.

In 1978, Leavitt discovered a young singer named Tony Vega, who became a legend among salsa singers on his own merit. Raphy Leavitt and La Selecta were responsible for the introduction of salsa in many countries. Raphy passed away in Miami as a result of an operation of the hip prosthesis that had been installed due to an accident in 1972, and that he had become infected. Leavitt passed away in his sleep. Raphy will always be endorsers of the Salsa Museum with the clown suit of its 25th anniversary.

I also want to thank the constant and significant support for the Museum, from my friend Sully Díaz, who as endorser of the museum, is always working to promote and make our work reach more people. Sully was born in New York, the daughter of Sephardic parents from Puerto Rico. She began her career as a model, and at the age of 17 she began acting in Spanish soap operas, making herself a well-known figure on television in Puerto Rico.

In 1983 she became popular throughout Latin America with the role of Coralito, in the telenovela of the same name. From that moment on, Sully was known as “the queen of Puerto Rican soap operas.” In the early 1990s, Sully moved to Hollywood and appeared on various television shows as a guest star and worked on a few movies.

In the mid-1990s, Sully joined four other Latina women (Dyana Ortelli, Marilyn, Ludo Vika, and Lydia Nicole) in a comedy group called “The Hot & Spicey Mamitas”. They sold out at several Los Angeles comedy clubs. They recorded a CD live called simply The Hot & Spicey Mamitas.

In 2002 Sully appeared in the play La Lupe: My Life, My Destiny, in which she played the Cuban singer La Lupe. Shortly after the execution of this work, Sully made her own production of La Reina, La Lupe. This work toured all of Puerto Rico and was a great success in Florida. That same year, she starred in the Puerto Rican thriller “Cuéntame tu pena”, in which she plays Isadora, a radio host who receives a call from a woman who is killed while on the air.

In 2004 Sully toured with Gilberto Santa Rosa in a play called “The True Story of Pedro Navaja.” In 2009 Sully appeared in the movie Princess Protection Program as Reina Sofía, along with Selena Gómez and Demi Lovato.

Papo Rosario and Isidro Infante - Photo — Papo Rosario and Isidro Infante

Recently, Papo Rosario released his new single “Gracias” produced by arranger and musician Isidro Infante. Rosario appreciates being alive and being able to walk after being bedridden as a result of a car accident. Papo Rosario is a world-class artist who has put the name of Puerto Rico on high. Rosario, who retired in 2019 from the group considered the “University of Salsa”, El Gran combo de Puerto Rico, after having an accident and presenting health problems, affirms that he already feels ready to resume his musical career with the Launch of his first solo production by producer Isidro Infante. I wish you success in this new beginning.

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

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

By Johnny Cruz, ISM Correspondent, New York, New York City

The 5 most famous Latin music DJs in USA

Latin music is characterized by its incomparable rhythm. Those who have Latin blood vibrate when listening to songs that remind them of their roots. However, Latinos are not the only ones who enjoy them, audiences of all ages and nationalities end up trying to dance to the tune of salsa, merengue or bossa nova.

Its growth has been increasing over the years and more and more Latino artists are performing on large stages; Important events in the United States and become the favorites of non-Hispanic people.

For this reason, it is very common to listen to these types of songs in different bars and clubs. Some DJs based in the US have wanted to enhance their roots and, even when they dabble in other genres, they are still famous for their Latin mixes .

Famous DJs of Latin music

DJ Deorro

Erick Orrosquieta, is a DJ and music producer, born in California but to Mexican parents. It is characterized by its inclination towards electro house. However, it does not neglect the Latin music sets. To his credit he has pieces such as “Bailar” with Elvis Crespo, where he did not hesitate to place his personal stamp.

He is working on a new album where he plans to gather more Latin songs and songs in Spanish. Even when he tours different countries, he always plays in his native USA again.

“I want to grab the sounds we used to hear when we were little, cumbia, merengue, mariachi, everything, in order to give them new music”

DJ Louie Vega

Luis Ferdinand Vega Jr. is an American with Puerto Rican roots. His uncle was nothing more and nothing less than the famous singer Héctor Lavoe. Little Louie Vega, as he is also known, grew up surrounded by Latin music. For this reason, his training and his passion for music of this style have always been noticed.

He is one of those artists who enjoy each show and immerse themselves in what they do. Dj Louie had his beginnings at parties in the Bronx and has not neglected his Hispanic side. Making different Latin mixes that he does not stop taking advantage of in many of his presentations. One of his most requested songs is “My people by Héctor Lavoe”. He has also participated in songs with a tropical rhythm like “Starring” with Roberto Roena and performed live with the accompaniment of different percussionists.

“Music comes from our hearts and we try to express it. We don’t look at the others, we just follow what we think is our path, ” he told estaybullshit.com.

DJ Buddha

Urals Vargas, born in the United States, is a renowned DJ, songwriter, producer and music publisher who has earned a good place in the industry. Recognized for including Latin music and dancehall among his mixes. He is one of the critics’ favorites and remains in constant innovation. DJ Buddha has an album called “Ultra Latino” that contains some of his most requested Latin tracks. In addition, it has countless tracks produced, remixed or written that today belong to renowned Latino artists.

“For me, success has been not putting myself alone in a genre because I make electronic music, … and yet, I have also made songs in the Latin market,” he said in an interview with Deyanira Martínez.

DJ Alex Sensation

He is a Colombian who grew up in the United States and from an early age began mixing at nightclubs. He also worked at the station La Mega 97.9 Fm, walking through different musical genres but not forgetting where he came from.

“I grew up listening to salsa and cumbia because of my roots. One of the first clubs where he played on the weekends was a Dominican club. There, I learned about the Dominican culture Bachata, Merengue, typical merengue when I was still very young. I made many Dominican friends and fell in love with their culture. I mix everything under that genre,” he commented for an interview.

He is considered a very valuable artist for music. In fact, he has participated in different festivals, parades in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico and has been awarded the ACE, an award from the Association of American Entertainment Critics.

DJ Cristhian Terán

This is a Venezuelan who has positioned herself in the city of the sun. Its proposal is based on Latin rhythms and is the favorite of most nightclubs. He has a history that has accompanied her since its inception in Venezuela. Caramelos de Cianuro, Chyno, Nacho and Guaco are some of the artists from her country with whom she has shared the stage. However, he has also managed to rub shoulders with singers such as Maluma, Alexis and Fido and Arcangel. Cristhian is one of the DJs who has managed to get the most out of the Latin genres and keep them present in the United States. His music is usually heard in the different clubs in Miami.

Interesting conversation with vocal coach and YouTuber Ceci Dover

Who is Ceci Dover and what she has done

Ceci Dover is a professional vocal coach and singer of Argentinean origin residing in Spain, where she has been dedicated to voice, music and technological advances that have emerged out in this world over the past few years. All this accumulated experience has made her worthy of sharing the stage with several of the most important Spanish-speaking artists such as Coro Kennedy and Alejandro Lerner.

In her talent and knowledge, we can notice that she has received a very solid training in the issues she always touches and two very important teaching centers in her academic life were the Manuel de Falla Conservatory and the singing academy Valeria Lynch, both of which contributed greatly to make Ceci the professional voice teacher she is today. Another important detail to highlight from her route is the Still Voice Training academy in the United States in 2020, which would complete her studies as a coach and professional singer.

Currently, Ceci is dedicated to perform vocal diagnosis for those who request it and she works as a content creator through YouTube, a platform on which she offers her analysis to well-known voices in the entertainment world so that the public can know a professional opinion on their quality or the absence of it.

In view of Ceci’s great career in the world of music, we wanted to talk to her and learn a little more about her career and experience from her own mouth.

How did your interest in music and vocal technique begin?

After thanking us for the space we gave her, Ceci went on to explain that it all started when she was in high school, which she combined with singing studies at a particular level since she turned 13 years old. Once she finished school, she enrolled in a conservatory and began studying lyrical singing full time for about 12 year until she chose to specialize in folk singing in order to achieve a change of range.

Throughout this process, she discovered that she enjoyed singing and teaching, although she would be dedicated exclusively to the latter.

Major references and inspirations

Her most significant influences are Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Mariah Carrey, Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, Freddy Marcury, Michael Jackson, among others. Ceci said to belong to old school because of her tastes, but it took a few years for her to start paying more attention to music in Spanish. It was in 2020 that she started paying attention to Latin voices such as Juan Gabriel, who has gone on to become one of her favorite artists worldwide. Although she has discovered a lot of talent in music in Spanish, she has been really fascinated by Mexican culture, which has given birth to several of the songs that did not have faces during her childhood.

Italian singer Laura Pausini and Ceci Dover

One of the things that has caught her attention the most about rancheras and boleros is that they allow artists to show all their talent and vocal ability. In addition, he says that these genres come from times when singers ”sang for real, excellence was demanded of them and had to be good in order to succeed”.

The industry dies not require artists to offer quality because it only focuses on creating characters and products carefully designed to make shows,” said the professional singer on this subject.

Importance of lyrics in culture

Ceci has been highly critical of everything related to the kind of lyrics that have been used in modern genres such as reggaeton and considers that so much vulgarity is not necessary to express what is wanted. In fact, he considers that these lyrical resources are an involution and a total reversal in music. Ensures that trap and reggaeton do not bother her, but she believes that explicitness, offenses and vexations used by many of its exponents do not send any positive message to the youth.

For the artist, this issue becomes even more serious and delicate when talking about young children as well, who are the primary audience of this musical content. She comments that her own son learns these lyrics at school and comes home singing them, something that makes her very angry and leads her to do everything possible to reverse the negative effects that this may have on his upbringing.

Peruvian composer and singer Eva Ayllón with Ceci Dover

It is possible to talk about heartbreak without being vulgar and degrading. I understand that this is what many young people like nowadays, but I think it is not a generational thing, but a matter of education. I have very young students who also disagree with that way of expressing music”, she added.

In that sense, he also points out that parents should instill other musical references and listen to other music so that their children get to know other voices and styles. Few people know Freddy Mercury or Michael Jackson, but everyone knows Bizarrap, Rosalia and Quevedo. That has to change” said the performer.

Vocal diagnosis and training

When Ceci was asked if a person without natural vocal talent could develop it, her answer was yes, although with several points to consider. A person without natural singing talent can develop his full potential and educate his voice. I know singers who don’t have good voice, but they strive to make good songs, write good lyrics and convey the listening audience special things” Ceci replied.

”I encourage everyone to educate their voice, even if they weren’t born with the natural talent that can make that process a little easier. I think we all can work on our voice and offer quality singing, but within our means. You can’t promise people that they are going to sing like Celine Dion in a year if they don’t have the conditions to do that. There are borders we simply cannot cross, but we can look for the best version of ourselves” she added.

Scenography and details unrelated to voice

Just as voice is a very important part of the analysis, there are other aspects that can distract Ceci from her analysis, such as lyrics, costumes and choreography. In that sense, she mentions the recent case of Shakira, whose story of heartbreak attracts much more attention than the technical details involved.

He also mentioned the case of K-Pop groups, whose choreographies, pirouettes and costumes stand out much more than their members’ voices. ”Before, the technical aspects related to voice were what stood out on stage, but now the visual part of the show is much more important than before,” said the artist. ”I was very much against backing tracks, but I have realized that K-Pop groups cannot achieve a perfect voice with such demanding dances and aerobics,” she concluded on this issue.

Salsa exponents

Although Ceci has focused on analyzing rancheras, boleros, pop and reggaeton, she thinks it is time to dedicate some of her material to analyze other more tropical genres such as salsa or merengue. In this part of the conversation, she expressed her admiration for stars such as Juan Luis Guerra, Marc Anthony, Celia Cruz and many more. There have been many followers who have asked her to react to voices of this genre, so she is considering making an exclusive special for tropical rhythms such as these and thereby appeasing the part of her audience that enjoys these styles.

Five Latin – Caribbean artists who triumph in Canada

Canada is another of the countries that has been influenced by the arrival of Latin music. Its beginnings are attributed to the immigration of Latin Americans to their lands.

By sharing borders, the United States and Canada tend to have similarities in the musical field. In the 90s, Latin music was present in Canada. However, Spanish pop singers such as Julio Iglesias and Gloria Estefan, as well as Lydia Mendoza, an interpreter of Tejano music, were already known.

Having Latin Americans started a kind of Latino roots, allowing Latin music to gain more ground on Canadian soil. Singers like Celia Cruz, Willie Colón and Rubén González made their songs sound in Canada. However, the beginnings of Latin music in the country are attributed to Ferdinand Morton, known in the artistic field as Jelly Roll Morton, an American jazz pianist.

Starting in 1999, Latin music had a greater growth, beginning to be heard on radio stations, events, festivals and national television stations. By that time singers like Ricky Martin were already being heard in other parts of the world.

Selena, Buena Vista Social Club and Jennifer López. Arriving in Canadian lands was no exception. In fact, Buena Vista Social Club’s album broke a record by becoming the highest-selling Latin album in Canada.

Surprisingly, Canadian artists were also captivated by the benefits of Hispanic countries, by the Caribbean flavor and the warmth of its people. Nelly Furtado, singer, songwriter and producer born in Canada was inspired by the island of Cuba for her album “Mi Plan”. Furtado recorded what would be his fourth album entirely in Spanish. It featured the participation of renowned Latin artists such as Juan Luis Guerra, Alejandro Fernández and the Latin American Julieta Venegas.

“I think this album has several of my first true love songs. They are not complicated. They were not over-thought and I discovered that it is liberating to be able to sing in a Latin language and express my Latin soul,” he said.

Mi Plan obtained great merits and was positioned as the album in Spanish with the highest sales numbers recorded by a Canadian singer. Undoubtedly, a suitable place for many Latino musicians of birth or descent who have wanted to try their luck outside their borders. Some have succeeded and today are among the most loved in Canada.

Some representatives of Latin music in Canada

Hilario Durán, Cuba

Photo by Hilario Duran

Hilario Durán

Hilario was born in Havana in 1953. He moved to Canada in the late 90’s, after touring the world with his band “Perspectiva”. He is a famous jazz pianist who fell in love with Canada and decided to live on its streets. He joined the Afro-Cuban jazz band “Spirit of Havana” belonging to Jane Bunnet, a Canadian lover of Cuban culture. In fact, Bunnet regularly travels to Havana to perform with Cuban musicians.

Hilario Durán has become known in Canada and other parts of the world thanks to his orchestra (Big Band), where together with his friend Roberto Occhipinti, a Canadian musician, they bring together Cuban and Canadian musicians. Leaving Latin jazz high. In 2007 he was nominated for a Grammy for his album “From the Heart”, along with Roberto D’Rivera. In addition, it obtained three Juno Awards and different awards in Canada.

Amanda Martínez, Mexico

Photo - Amanda Martínez in concert

Amanda Martinez in concert

Amanda Martínez was born in Toronto, Canada with Latino blood. His father is Mexican. Martínez studied biology and business administration but decided to take a course in his life and dedicate himself to what he really loved: music. The artist was not wrong in her decision. He has left his roots high by venturing into Latin jazz.

In 2007 and then in 2009 she was nominated for the Latin Jazz Artist of the Year Award at the National Jazz Awards in Canada. He has three albums to his credit and his first album “Sola” won the Best World Music award, selling around 6,000 copies.

Martínez has performed on famous stages and renowned events; she sang at the Winter Garden Theater, at the Koerner Hall in Toronto, the Festival Centro Histórico de México, at the Montreal Jazz Festival

Ogguere, Cuba

Ogguere's photo

Ogguere

Aka Edrei Riveri, is a Cuban singer and songwriter who resides in Canada. It has become famous for its musical fusions. He walks through rap, hip hop, jazz and la chacuba. A mix of cha-cha and rap. It is registered as the first mix between both styles.

Ogguere has two solo albums, “Solar” released in 2011 which earned two nominations for a Cubadisco award and “Raíces”. He moved to Toronto in 2010 and has since become an immediate reference in jazz and hip hop.

Natasha Roldán, Colombia

Photo by Natasha Roldan — Natasha Roldán

Born in Colombia and based in Toronto, Canada, Natasha Roldán breaks stereotypes in the musical field. She walks between jazz and bossa.

The artist has a fair complexion and very light eyes. From what anyone would believe, she is a native Canadian singer. However, her Colombian roots run deep in her career.

For Natasha it is important that the musical boundaries collapse. It promotes pattern-free Latin music.

“I think that above all I break many stereotypes because people in Canada whenever they think of Latin music, identify it directly with salsa or bachata. Well, and now reggaeton (laughs). And everything is linked to a super sexy image of the Latin woman, who dresses spectacularly and clearly I am not like that.

Therefore, it is very gratifying to share another type of music that people do not know such as bambuco, cumbia, Argentine zamba, Brazilian music aside from bossa nova … and whenever I talk to someone and they discover that I am always Colombian They ask me why I don’t play such music or dance this.

Suddenly I break with the stereotype but not because it is a bad stereotype but because other things have to be shown as well ”, she expressed in an interview for the Hispano Phone portal.

Her music has allowed many Canadians to have access to the Latin culture and to experience sounds with different influences.

Henry Vivel, Colombia

Photo by Henry Vivel

Henry Vivel

Henry was born in Colombia but moved to New York and later to Toronto. In New York he had the opportunity to study music with Enrique Gil, musician and composer. After his arrival in Toronto, he worked in Sky’s Banda, a group that performed at weddings and different events. He sang Latin music.

In 2009 he became the leader of the Tropicanada Orquesta. Pioneer Latin Orchestra in Toronto. They have participated in different salsa festivals and radio stations. Henry and the band have also been a part of different charities in Canada and other countries. In the same way, Henry has joined social causes for the inclusion of immigrants, he has taught them English and part of Canadian culture.

In 2013 he was nominated for the Oye Awards and 10 Most Influential Latinos in Canada. The singer is very pleased with the affection of the Canadian public.

“The chemistry is so great, especially with those who don’t understand my songs in Spanish, which makes the language barriers dissolve into enjoying themselves, dancing and having a good time. With the orchestra I have been able to witness how people enjoy the beauty of Latin music and it makes me very happy to be a Colombian who sings to Canadians and who puts up our musical roots ”, he commented

Toronto has been a city with great Latin influence. Canada has received mixtures of different cultures and they have formed a variety of styles that locals and visitors enjoy. It has been one of the countries that receive the foreign musicians as part of a great family and give them the opportunity to present their work. They have a great affection for Caribbean music.

Honor to whom honor is due – Johnny Cruz

This month I hope to be able to pay tribute to great figures of our Latin music, who have worked tirelessly for years to make our music very high.

I want to greet my great friend Larry Harlow and wish him a speedy recovery. Larry Harlow is an American artist and performer, composer and producer of Cuban son, Montuno, Afro-Cuban jazz, mambo, guaracha, cha-cha, and salsa, hailing from Brooklyn, New York. Harlow, who is known for his mix of Afro-Cuban jazz and piano playing styles, studied music in the 1950s in Cuba, but was unable to complete his studies before the 1959 Cuban Revolution, forcing him to leave the island.

The Harlow Orchestra was the first to sign with Fania Records, Harlow has also produced more than 106 albums by various artists and more than 50 albums of his own authorship, in addition to those he produced for Fania. Among his most popular albums were “Abran Paso” and “Tributo a Arsenio Rodríguez” with Ismael Miranda as the vocalist. He also appeared with La Fania All-Stars, in the film, Nuestra Cosa Latina.

Harlow recorded one of his most momentous albums in just two days. Under the simple title of Salsa, it pays homage to the Cuban roots of tropical music, combining the sound of trumpets and trombones with two violins that evoke the aesthetics of the charanga of groups such as Orquesta Aragón.

With “The portfolio”, a version of a song by Arsenio Rodríguez, Harlow finds his greatest success. Thanks to the singers Adalberto Santiago and Junior González, the nickname “the wonderful Jew” arises. In 1972, salsa was in full swing. Larry Harlow, meditates on a musical concept for the Afro-Caribbean music market. Inspired by the success of the Anglo-Saxon opera, “Tommy”, Harlow was preparing for the launch of a similar concept, aimed at the salsa market.

For 1973 the opera Hommy, using the lyrics of Heny Álvarez, tells the story of a boy who, although blind and deaf, had a great talent for percussion. The outstanding musicians of the time and singers such as Justo Betancourt, Cheo Feliciano, Adalberto Santiago, Junior González, Pete “El Conde” Rodríguez and Celia Cruz joined.

The combination of musicians and voices achieved its goal with a recording that established a lecture in the history of Afro-Caribbean music with a radiant exhibition that captured the airwaves and the imagination of the salsa audience. The songs “Es un Varón”, “El Día De Navidad”, “Quirinbomboro”, “Gracia Divina”, “Cari-Caridad” and “Soy Sensacional” were undoubted radio hits that became themes of dance and discussion among all the salseros.

It was the first time that an opera, Spanish-speaking, and in the salsa guild, was directed to the populace. Salsa got dressed up and that legacy opened the doors for the Afro-Caribbean musical tradition to now visit the most prestigious venues in the world.

That is the legacy of “Hommy”, one of the best recordings of the time, which brought together the best musicians of the moment in an expression that transcended time; and, in turn, he brought Celia Cruz to the salsa market and placed her in a seat of honor which she never left. But more importantly, “Hommy” took Salsa to a new place among audiences. What a contribution from Larry Harlow!

I also want to send my regards and appreciation to Ralph Irizarry. Recognized as one of the timpanists with the greatest “swing”, Ralph Irizarry has a distinctive style that has allowed him to leave an indelible mark in the groups where he has played. Born in Harlem Latino New Yorker, Ralph is a self-taught musician who learned his trade by listening to his brother’s records and the music of his idols in nightclubs, where he used to sneak into when he was 16 years old.

His family moved to Puerto Rico when Ralph was in his teens; There he acquired his first professional experiences with La Terrífica, El Gran Combo, La Sonora Ponceña and many other groups. After three years on the island, Ralph returned to New York, where he began playing with local groups.

One winter night in 1978, he met the legendary Ray Barreto at Manhattan’s Corso Nightclub and began a productive working relationship that would result in five extraordinary recordings. Ralph has recorded with David Byrne, Paul Simon, Harry Belafonte, Earl Klugh, Juan Luis Guerra, Cachao, Celia Cruz and Yomo Toro, although he is widely recognized for his musical relationship with Rubén Blades and Seis Del Solar, with whom he remained. recording and performing internationally for 13 years.

His musical contributions have also been fundamental in the recording of two Latin jazz albums made by Seis del Solar for the Messidor Records label. Currently, he is one of the most sought after musicians who has kept working on commercials and film and television soundtracks.

His charisma also allowed him to develop an unexpected acting career: he acted in The Mambo Kings, playing the role of Pito Fernández. In the summer of 1996, Ralph participated along with Tito Puente in the show Master Timbaleros, presented at S.O.B.’s in New York. This historic concert was the culmination of 26 years of dedication, practice, and love of music. He founded the group Timbalaye, a septet with a strong big band sound.

The group combines contemporary Latin jazz with diverse tropical rhythms (timba and songo) and traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms (bomba, cha cha chá and son montuno). Their innovative sound has allowed the group to perform weekly at various venues in New York. Among his most recent projects is a recording at Birdland for a compilation to be released by the RCA Records label. Timbalaye is considered the force of Latin jazz. My hug and respect to you Ralph!

I am happy to express my gratitude and admiration to a powerful woman, Director of Taínos Tower and Vice President of the Museum of Salsa: María Cruz.

María Cruz was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico. In 1966 she came to New York looking for new opportunities. While studying at Manhattan Community College, she began working with the East Harlem Pilot Block Redevelopment Project. Although she may have had no idea at the time, that job was the beginning of her career as a community activist and advocate for social services. As a community worker at the East Harlem Pilot Block, she helped design and offer a tenant orientation in preparation for the occupation at Taino Towers.

Later, she became a Building Representative and worked with tenants regarding apartment issues, rent, social service issues, and Section 8. Maria Cruz has been involved in many community activities:

From 1984 to 1989; She served as president of the Tenants Association of her apartment building. She was vice president of the East Harlem Little League Baseball organization. In her spare time, she organized bus trips for neighborhood children to amusement parks and ball games. Encouraged and assisted several tenants to return to school and continue their education, so that they can be trained and empowered to return to the workforce and leave Public Assistance. Ms. Cruz earned her RAM (Registered Apartment Manager) certificate from NYU and is registered as a Certified Leasing Professional.

Currently, Ms. Cruz is the Executive Director of ARCO Management Inc. / Taino Towers. She has always been a strong activist for the community. In the summer of 1999, Ms. Cruz organized the first annual Taino Family Day. Day in which all residents and members of the East Harlem community participate and celebrate a day of unity. On Taino Family Day, residents rent “kioscos” food stalls and sell various ethnic foods, dance to the rhythm of various musical bands, and children enjoy activities such as face painting, puppet theater, and a petting zoo.

Each year, Ms. Cruz focuses on a different topic such as: education, music, tributes, and family values. As Executive Director, one of her greatest accomplishments was the renovation of the Touro College building. She is currently a board member of the East Harlem Council for Human Services and works closely with local politicians and representatives.

In 2002, Ms. Cruz along with Irving “Magic” Johnson opened the Magic Johnson Computer Learning Center. This program provides computer classes to Taino Towers and the East Harlem Community. As Executive Director, she was also able to oversee the completion of the Senior Park at Taino Towers.

In the summer of 2003, voted by the majority of the tenants, the Park for the elderly was renamed the Maria Cruz Park for the elderly. In September 2019, she was honored with the Eugenio María de Hostos Award from the Puerto Rican National Association for her commitment to the East Harlem Community. People like Mrs. Cruz are exemplary citizens of the Latino community in the United States, and in New York.

Do not stop listening to the new single: “Gracias”, and the first solo production of Papo Rosario, produced by the arranger and musician Isidro Infante. Rosario is grateful to be alive and to be able to walk after being bedridden as a result of a car accident. Papo Rosario is a world-class artist who has put the name of Puerto Rico high. Rosario, withdrew in 2019 from the group considered the “university of salsa”, El Gran combo de Puerto Rico, after having an accident and presenting health problems. Now, he affirms that he already feels ready to resume his musical career with the launch of his first solo production by producer Isidro Infante. Much success in this new stage.

I highly recommend that you follow the track of Quintero’s Salsa Project, a Venezuelan salsa group based in New York, nominated for a Latin Grammy and led by cousins Luisito and Roberto Quintero, released an album in which they pay tribute to the work of La Dimensión Latina, the orchestra that represented a before and after in the history of this musical genre in Venezuela.

The band wanted to go back to the 60s to remember that particular style with which La Dimensión Latina championed Venezuelan salsa: “Many of the world’s salsa players and Venezuelans identify with this rhythm. We, the Quintero, have always been loyal fans of these great teachers. With this album we wish to pay tribute to those who today are a world icon of salsa ”, they said through their networks. “Ya tú lo verás”, promotional single from the album composed by Oscar D’León, was arranged by the legendary trombonist and director of La Dimensión Latina, César Monges, better known as “Albóndiga”.

The album is the second released by Quintero’s Salsa Project, following their debut project, Nuestro Hogar, which was nominated for the 2019 Latin Grammy for Best Salsa Album. In that same ceremony, Luisito Quintero, one of the great Venezuelan percussionists who make a professional life in the United States, received the gramophone as a member of the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, which was recognized for his Anniversary album as Best Latin Tropical Album. Quintero is also a member of the group of the great pianist Chick Corea. Do not miss it!

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

At the Spanish Harlem Salsa Gallery Museum we are happy to say that we are gradually returning to our activities and we will be opening the gallery sporadically. We do not stop, we continue to work for our music and we will always keep you informed through our social networks. We hope to have more news shortly and that we can return to normal soon.