Enrique Romero “El Molestoso” RIP
My esteemed colleague and friend, Enrique Romero died last week at the age of 58 of Cancer. Enrique was a great catalyst in the European Salsa scene. He was established as an important journalist, record producer, radio producer, host, publicist, dj’, graphic artist and event producer. He was known as “El Molestoso” (named after the Eddie Palmieri tune) for his notoriously wicked sense of humor and critical opinions that left no holds barred. He would give you the brutal truth which endeared him to some and offended others but that was part of his unique personality. His brilliant but short lived 90’s magazine “El Manicero” was beautifully done with great graphics, insightful interviews with Cachao and Eddie Palmieri among others and was considered essential reading for Salsa aficionados. He produced a series of compilations for Musica Del Sol which celebrated the work of great artists such as Joe Cuba, Benny More and brought attention to unsung heroes such as Rene Grand. He was a PR wunderkind for such media outlets as the progressive Radio Gladys Palmera in Spain and the Antilla News for many years. He also worked as an artistic advisor and featured dj with Tempo Latino, the largest outdoor music festival in Europe devoted to Salsa, Musica Cubana and Latin alternative music. Enrique was also host of his radio program “Picadillo” which featured his eclectic taste from Salsa to the new fusions in Latin music. His DJ sessions at Tempo Latino and a whole host of venues in Barcelona were instrumental in keeping Salsa and related music alive in Europe. I last saw him this past August. He was recovering from surgery. My wife Isidra and I spent the afternoon with him. We had some great laughs over lunch. I said what would be my last goodbye to him. The European music and literary community are in morning and so am I. He will sorely be missed. Enrique has gone to join the big descarga in the next dimension. Adios, dear...
Read MoreCuban Music Explosion in the SF Bay
The San Francisco Bay Area is enjoying a Cuban music explosion during the next few months. Popular Cubatoneros Los 4 packed Roccapulco this past Saturday. The John Santos Sextet performed a Sacred tribute to the drum featuring special guests Orestes Vilato and Bobi Cespedes on Sunday. Now the Bay Area is going to be visited by the likes of the new Havana Cuba All Stars, the new Chucho Valdes/Joe Lovano Quintet, Chucho’s son Chuchito Valdes, David Calzado & Charanga Habanera, Los Van Van, Alexander Abreu & Havana D’Primera during the new month and a half! San Francisco Bay Area’s own Tito Gonzalez Y Su Son De Cuba, Miguelito Martinez “Cuba Le Canta A Mexico Project”, Fito Reinoso’s Ritmo Y Armonia and Clasicos De Cuba bands, Rumbache and Orquesta La Moderna Tradicion have been performing the popular sounds from Son to Timba in the local festivals, clubs and venues. A lot of DJ’s have been incorporating Cuban music into their repertoire including long-time stalwarts DJ Walt Digz and DJ Dark Rum. Popular DJ Leydis has recently played the White House as an invited guest for National Hispanic month. And I have always incorporated the intoxicating sounds of Timba and Son into my DJ sets for los bailadores! I will keep you posted on future happenings in the SF...
Read MoreFernandito Junior-On His Way Up!
SF Bay Area based vocalist Fernando Wilkins a.k.a. Fernandito Junior has just put out his debut release “Un Nuevo Capitulo”on his own PE Entertainment label. Wilkins went to Puerto Rico to collaborate with Salsa star and composer Nino Segarra on his new recording that features 8 sparkling tracks full of heartfelt lyrics, swinging arrangements and catchy hooks. “Un Nuevo Capitulo” is the latest evolution of this artist who has several recordings under his belt as part of a duo with his former partner, Neftali Rosado of the band “Pa’l Bailador”. Wilkins left to pursue his artistic vision and desire to penetrate the Salsa market under his own persona. He has recently performed as part of percussionist Cafe August’s Orquesta De La Isla orquesta. Wilkins/Fernandito Jr. celebrated the release of his recording with a huge party at the new Sunday hot spot, Boogaloo Sundays at Gordon Biersch Brewery in San Jose. The party featured Wilkins, the powerful Orquesta De La Isla orchestra and special guest Nino Segarra flying in from Puerto Rico to play the show. There were plenty of explosive music moments throughout the show! I had the pleasure of emceeing the show and performing as DJ for this special evening! The cd is available at most digital platforms including Itunes, Amazon and CD...
Read MoreMill Valley Film Festival…Viva El Cine!
The Mill Valley Film Festival is offering an impressive slate of Latin films among their diverse offerings from big, potentially huge blockbusters to tribute nights to stars such as Nicole Kidman to Gael Garcia Bernal to a daily schedule of music events covering the gamut from Americana to Gospel now through October 16th. Alejandro Escovedo will be a featured artist during their musical schedule of events at the Sweetwater night club on Friday, October 14. Highlights include the acclaimed Sonia Braga starred vehicle “Aquarius”, the new Pedro Almodovar film “Julieta”, the new film “Neruda” featuring Gael Garcia Bernal, “Monday Nights at Seven” featuring Edward James Olmos (who also is executive producer of the film) and other great offerings. For more information, please visit...
Read MoreLive Appearances
Follow Luis on
Follow Luis on