Search Results for: charanga

Long live music! Repeat after me: “Long live the musicians so they can keep making it”. And I add: “Long live SALSA”.

With a full tank, Transition by Tito Rodriguez, Jr.

Bella Martinez, International Salsa Magazine by the hand of www.SalsaGoogle.com presents and highly recommends this formidable and exquisite production of Tito Rodriguez Jr. The firstborn of the unforgettable Pablo “Tito” Rodriguez.

Long live music! Repeat after me: “Long live the musicians so they can keep making it”. And I add: “Long live SALSA”.

As soon as I got my hands on it I listened to it, many times. Not that I needed an explanation, but I could not stop listening to it and go off to take care of my duties.

So much so that I had to send the radio station of the Puerto Rican salsa singer on vacation for a few days until I finished writing the note that had chosen to write itself. The CD cover – showing the photo of Tito Rodriguez, Jr. settled on my desk for several weeks as if it belonged to the surface in front of which I sit every day. Until one fine day I said to myself: Today I hope to be able to understand the instrumental pairing of everything that happens in this piece.

Here I go…

In the first cut (Bailando con la más fea) there were several bars after the first minute, that transported me to my days of partying in New York during the bravo launch of that orchestra that I haven’t heard for a long time.

Of course, while that orchestra sounded bigger than it was, this one I’m examining today – Tito Rodriguez, Jr.’s – sounds bigger than it is and on steroids; among other reasons because the baritone enhances the personality of this serious sounding arrangement, albeit hand in hand with a jocular lyric.

During the second theme (El vive bien) we experience a very Cuban theme of those that sandungueando the waists of those who follow the leather beats to’ fuete.

Shortly before entering the third minute, the interplay of saxophones and twists in which the baritone and bongo play suggest to me that this song shares the flavorfulness of the pregón that says “Salsa ahí na’ma’ como me gusta a mí…” from one of the tracks on Gilberto Santa Rosa’s production Colegas (2020). In fact, Gilberto collaborates in this production, specifically in the song Volver.

In the third cut (Ándate nena), the trumpet solo stands out within an arrangement for large orchestra and allows the performance to be sprinkled with conga, marking the nostalgia of the memory of those geniuses that the traditional big bands left us as a legacy. The saxophones sound like those of the Palladium orchestras.

The 4th track (Volver) is an arrangement where the influence of Bobby Valentín’s inventions is evident. The track starts like the romantic arrangements of the 1990’s, although with a heavy and dominant piano, prior to the alto saxophone playing that opens the way for the rest of the saxophones in perfect synchrony with the conga, timbal and bongo. This cut features Gilberto Santa Rosa, although the song didn’t need Santa Rosa to shine.

Tito Rodriguez, Jr. gave way to the most prolific salsa singer in commercial salsa to perform a song that was already the polished diamond of this collection.

Tito Rodriguez, Jr. Timbalero, Arranger, Composer, Producer and Bandleader, Tito Rodriguez, Jr is one of the leading

I found it to be a classic big band arrangement with an avant-garde touch where the saxophones give way to a touch of a musical arrangement that wants to be a sonorous orchestra. However, the perfection of the thing doesn’t let the sonorous touch tuck in the modern big band concept. Well, I understand myself. “Afinca y echa pa’ lante…” said Santa Rosa.

In the fifth track (Con el tanque lleno) the orchestra starts off powerful in sound and playfulness. The song is about a “convertible, colorado y con el tanque lleno”. The pregón reads: “Soy soltero y con el tranque lleno” (I’m single and with a full tank). I don’t think you will be surprised when I confess that this is my favorite song in this collection. The lyrics are funny, but the arrangement is a smashing one.

The conga’s correspondence with the melodic trombone solo by Alex Zapata’s blows sets the stage for a masterful closing by the saxophone ensemble under the leadership of Ismael Vergara’s baritone.

The sixth track (No vale la pena) is evidence of the chameleonic capacity of Sammy Gonzalez, Jr.’s voice, which can be used to proclaim, to sound, to become the most romantic rogativo in the middle of a heavy song, all within a romantic lyric full of feeling. Well, rarely does a man play the “victim” of a sentimental breakup.

This is one of those few times, a situation that makes the pregones both jocular and nostalgic at the same time. The contradiction of suffering and laughing is also visited at the end of the mambo, which makes the theme one of general interest in addition to the musical interest it awakens.

The seventh track (Pa ti morena) is a very brave Cuban son. I don’t know if this son is played in that unlikely combination of the style of Tito Puente, Machito and Tito Rodriguez knowingly or if it was pure chance. I felt like I was reaching for heaven while listening to Sammy Gonzalez, Jr.’s vocal performance when the alto saxophone solo brought me back to reality.

The beginning of cut #8 (Para los bailadores) marks the change of tempo to an aggressive one where the bongo is the one telling where the baritone is going. When the vocalist suggests to Tito Rodriguez, Jr. to enter the mambo with an anticipatory “y nos fuimos”, no one doubts the greatness of the orchestra’s sound.

The timbal solo by Tito Rodríguez, Jr. declines when the performer requests “mambo otra vez”. It is in this track that the distinctive sound of this orchestra is most noticeable, one inspired by the traditional big bands, although influenced by the advanced currents. In short, this is real salsa and it is salsa to enjoy. As promised in the lyrics, this song brings to the arena a very cool rhythm that is not to be confused with charanga.

After I finished writing this note, having already listened to the complete production, I was tempted to ask Tito for an audience and ask him “a couple of questions” according to me. That brief call went on and on and I asked him everything I could, taking advantage of the nobility of the timbalero heir to the musicality and name of one of our greatest musical glories….

During the “cañona” that I wanted to call an organic interview, Tito confirmed that Transición is his fourth album and the first to be titled in Spanish. Let’s go well, Tito.

This album was preceded by Curious? (1978), which featured José Alberto “El Canario” and Rubén Blades; Eclipse (1995) and The Big Three Palladium Orchestra live at the Blue Note (2004).

Why the title Transición? I’ll tell you about it next time. Obviously, Tito deserves another chapter in my salsa journey. Talk to you soon and I’ll tell you about his 2009 adventure when he was in Puerto Rico fulfilling one of his musical dreams.

Tito Rodríguez, Jr. Transición

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

Puerto Rico

As soon as I got my hands on this album, I listened to it many times. Not that I owed an explanation, but I couldn't stop listening to it and go off to take care of my duties. So much so that I had to send the radio station of the Puerto Rican salsa singer on vacation for a few days until I finished writing the note that I had chosen to write itself. — Bella Martinez “The Irreverent Salsa Writer”.

WebSite: Bella Martinez

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Javier Plaza “With Coconut Flavor”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Johnny Pacheco founder of the Fania All Stars says goodbye

This Monday Cuqui Pacheco announced the news

Johnny Pacheco, one of the great Latin musicians, died this Monday, February 15 at the Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, New Jersey because of pneumonia, which he had already suffered for several days and for which he was hospitalized. Called one of the creators of salsa, Johnny left this world at 85 years of age, but his legacy will live forever not only in the hearts of Latinos, but also in the history of music.

A short statement was released by what is now his widow María Elena “Cuqui” Pacheco and the rest of his relatives:

“With great pain in my soul and an emptiness in my heart I inform you that the teacher Johnny Pacheco with much peace passed away this afternoon. Thank you so much for all the prayers from him and all the love you always gave him. At this time we ask for privacy and prayers. “

There were and still are many reactions around the departure of the founder of Fania. Salseros around the world have mourned the news and many musicians who in one way or another knew Johnny have expressed their sadness:

Rubén Blades published on his Facebook account: “I just received information indicating that Dominican Johnny Pacheco, flutist, arranger, composer and leader of the group “Las Estrellas de Fania”, has just moved “al otro barrio”. At 85 years of age, Pacheco leaves us an important musical legacy, represented by all the collaborations that he made during his distinguished career, with figures like Celia Cruz … To his family and loved ones we send our condolences . Have a good trip Johnny and “Simá!”

On his part, Marc Anthony took to Instagram to dedicate these words to him: “Teacher of Teachers and my good friend! Rest in peace! You were there for me from day 1. Your sense of humor was contagious and I am forever grateful for your support, for the opportunity to be in your presence and for your amazing legacy. “

Maelo Ruiz also left his words: “Today a giant left us ? We regret his physical disappearance! Thank you maestro Johnny Pacheco for everything you did for salsa, you left an insurmountable legacy for future generations! God receive you in heaven ? #QEPD #Rip #JohnnyPacheco #FaniaAllStars ”

Puerto Rican Victor Manuelle also used Instagram to remember Johnny: “Thank you teacher. I had the honor of honoring you in life. Your legacy will not die. Your music will live forever in our hearts. We are going to miss you, Master Pacheco. R.I.P.”

And another was El Caballero de la Salsa Gilberto Santa Rosa: “Today Salsa and music in general are in mourning. One of the pioneers, creative genius and in my personal case an exquisite person said goodbye … Rest in peace master Johnny Pacheco.”

And these are just an example of the many reactions that Latin musicians left when they heard the news. Johnny Pacheco definitely left his mark and a legacy that was difficult to emulate, but which gave the foundation to one of the most listened to genres in the world, of which Latin America is extremely proud.

The incredible career of Johnny Pacheco

Juan Azarías Pacheco Knipping was born on March 25, 1935 in the city of Santiago de los Caballeros in the Dominican Republic. His father was Rafael Azarías Pacheco and thanks to him his love for music arises since he was a clarinetist and a famous conductor. On his part, his mother was Octavia Knipping Rochet, who brought Pacheco a mixture of cultures, since she was the granddaughter of a French colonizer and great-granddaughter of a German merchant who married a Dominican woman of Spanish family.

Johnny moved to New York with his family at the age of 11, where he continued his studies, especially music, managing to enter the prestigious Juilliard School to study percussion. In 1960 he founded his first band: Pacheco y su charanga, after working in several Latin bands. With this band Pacheco achieves success by signing with Alegre records, and presenting a dance rhythm which he called the pachanga, in this way he becomes a star touring the United States, Europe, Asia and of course Latin America.

La Fania first started out as a record label, with a partner who was not thought to be interested in Latin music Jerry Masucci, a former policeman who became a lawyer, but fell in love with this music on a trip he made to Cuba. This foundation occurred in 1964, between Harlem and the Bronx where the productions were sold from the trunks of their cars. But the Fania legacy was only taking its first steps by giving an urban touch to Latin music using the term salsa to sell its releases.

With Pacheco, Fania achieved a new rhythm based on the existing ones of Caribbean music, especially the Cuban son, but by putting a faster tempo. One of the things that stood out in Fania’s music was the lyrics, which were used to talk about somewhat sensitive issues, from racism to the political problems of the time, without neglecting pride in their Latino origins.

During the ‘60s and ‘70s, Fania had under its wing many singers who today are considered the best in Latin music and the promoters of the salsa genre: Héctor Lavoe, Willie Colón, Celia Cruz, Rubén Blades to name a few, not counting the musicians who have been part of the band that accompanied the stars in their presentations. Practically the Fania All Stars became the school of many musicians.

Fania Records was called the Motown of salsa, becoming a music powerhouse, which led his band the Fania All Stars to tour around the world filling arenas and selling many records. Featuring never-before-seen collaborations such as Willie Colón, one of the best salsa composers, with Rubén Blades, a lyricist focused on the social part. Hector Lavoe was also a cult singer who made music history but whose career was very short and was marked by addiction problems which led to an early death at 46 years old.

During the ‘80s, Fania saw its end when facing many problems due to royalties and lawsuits, working with many artists was not easy and at that time there were many dark moments focused on addictions and monetary problems. In 2005 Fania returned to the spotlight as Emusica bought their catalog that was getting lost in a warehouse in Hudson, New York. Many hits were remastered and re-released in 2006.

Johnny Pacheco will always be remembered as the father of salsa, who with Fania managed to leave his mark on Latin music, rest in peace maestro.

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Written Salsa, Barquisimeto’s Salsa Column presents Pamir Guánchez

By: Professor MSc. Carlos Colmenárez (Venezuela)

Pamir Guánchez, brilliant Venezuelan singer, flutist, saxophonist and arranger.

The special guest of this edition of Salsa Written is the brilliant Venezuelan singer, flutist, saxophonist and arranger Pamir Guánchez, born in Caracas, who began his artistic career at an early age.

Welcome Pamir to the Barquisimeto salsa column, we would like to know how were your musical beginnings? Thank you Professor Carlos for inviting me to your column, which has won praise both in my country and here in the United States of America. I received formal training in my beginnings at the National Conservatory of Music “Juan José Landaeta” in the city of Caracas, where I studied for 10 years, graduating as a flutist.

I studied theory and solfeggio, harmony and music history, I received saxophone lessons with Maestro Rolando Briceño in New York City for 5 years, I was also part of the Youth Symphony Orchestra with Maestro José Antonio Abreu and also in the Caracas Chamber Orchestra for 3 years.

Written Salsa, Barquisimeto's Salsa Column presents Pamir Guánchez — Pamir Guánchez, brilliant Venezuelan singer, flutist, saxophonist and arranger

Which orchestras have you belonged to? I belonged to different orchestras and tropical groups such as Orquesta La Bronko, Los Melódicos de Renato Capriles, Orquesta La Magnífica de Elio Pacheco, Tabaco y sus Metales, Orquesta Amistad de Chuito y Rodrigo, Orquesta Fascinación de Maracay.

Excellent Pamir, by the way, how did you join the orchestra of the Sonero del Mundo? In 1989, while I was with the Fascinación Orchestra, I was discovered by maestro Oscar D’León, who recognized my talent and opened the doors of his orchestra for me to enter as a flutist and saxophonist. I was there permanently for 15 years, where I was able to travel the world and experience some of the most important moments of my career, such as playing at the famous Carnegie Hall and Madison Square Garden in New York City. Guanchez thanks to his preparation, experience and artistic career with Oscar D’Leon, went on to join one of the iconic orchestras of salsa, as is the Orchestra of the Queen of Salsa Celia Cruz, where he remained for 2 consecutive years, performing as a flutist and baritone saxophonist, experience that marked his artistic career, to live very emotional moments next to the “Guarachera de Cuba“.

Pamir, I understand that you also participated with maestro Tito Puente Jr? Indeed professor, I was also a flutist and saxophonist, making myself known during my time with the orchestra of Tito Puente Jr., with whom I recorded his penultimate musical production “Siguiendo los pasos de mi padre” alongside Latin Jazz stars such as the sax master Mario Rivera and I also accompanied him in his presentations around the world.

In terms of recordings, what can you tell us? In 2004 I began recording my first musical production entitled “Pamir con alma de protón“, which with the song “La Charanga de Pamir” won the Estrella award, an award given to local artists with international projection, the CD was signed by the company Protel and was distributed by Universal Latino, with this CD I begin another facet of my career and it is as a singer.

In 2006, seeking to attract and enter the Anglo-Saxon market, I recorded my second CD called "Via Miami", completely instrumental and with the Latin jazz cut, a production that has had great acceptance among jazz lovers. — Pamir Guánchez brilliant Venezuelan singer, flautist, saxophonist and arranger

In 2006, looking to attract and enter the Anglo-Saxon market I recorded my second CD called “Via Miami“, completely instrumental and with the Latin jazz cut, a production that has had great acceptance among jazz lovers.

In 2009 I recorded my third musical production entitled “Pamir inconfundible“, with the promotional number “El soñador“, lyrics, music and composition by Oscar D’León, and also with the participation of former Fania All Stars bassist Salvador Cuevas in a tribute to Jhonny Pacheco, director and flautist of Fania, This CD was on the list for the Latin Grammy nominees, I also counted with the participation of the musicians of the Oscar D’León Orchestra with whom I have a magnificent relationship both professionally and as a friend.

Professor Carlos, I also had the honor of recording with José Alberto “El Canario”, the song “El canario y la flauta”.

Also, with Oscar D’León the song “Baila apretao“, both compositions of the maestro Víctor Gámez.

Pamir has received certification of participation in the 11th annual Latin Grammy Awards, for his participation as a musician in the winning recording, “Tesoros de la música venezolana” (Treasures of Venezuelan music), as he accompanied Ilan Chester.

I was part of the Youth Symphony Orchestra with Maestro José Antonio Abreu. — Pamir Guánchez, born in Caracas, began his artistic career at a very early age.

He has appeared on numerous television programs such as “Despierta America” on Univision, Azteca TV, America TV, interviews on different radio stations in Venezuela, USA, Colombia, Peru, Europe, where they have given him the opportunity to make himself known and continue advancing in his artistic career. Recently he was promoting his fourth musical production called “Se pega“, which has its promotional video. With this production Pamir & La Pachanguísima has won for two consecutive years the 3rd Annual Legends Award and 4th Annual Award as best flutist, at the same time when he is requested by maestro Oscar D’León he accompanies him on stage.

Congratulations Pamir for your extraordinary artistic career and from International Salsa Magazine and from www.salsagoogle.com and from this server Carlos Colmenárez, we wish you to continue reaping success, putting the name of Venezuela on high. Thank you very much Professor Carlos for giving me the opportunity to make contact with my country through your column and I hope to be with you again, blessings, a hug in the distance.

Pamir Guánchez, brilliant Venezuelan singer, flutist, saxophonist and arranger.

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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.

Salsa Escrita, in charge of this server, your friend of always, professor MSc. Carlos Colmenárez — Professor MSc. Carlos Colmenárez (Venezuela)

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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