Mambo In The City Salsa Podcast

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Episode 56: Luisito Ayala l 
In this captivating episode of Mambo in the City, host Adrian Montanez sits down with the legendary Luisito Ayala, the musical powerhouse behind The Puerto Rican Power. Established in the 1970s, this iconic orchestra has shaped the salsa landscape, especially under Ayala's direction as trumpeter and musical director.

Join us as Luisito reflects on the band's rise to fame, from accompanying salsa giants like Héctor Lavoe and Cheo Feliciano to their milestone album Con Todo El Poder, which launched the unforgettable hit “¡A donde irás?” Tune in for an inside look at their golden era with Tito Rojas and the orchestra’s continued legacy as ambassadors of Puerto Rican culture.

With a rich history of accolades—including multiple Billboard nominations and recognition at the Latin Grammy Awards—this episode celebrates the enduring impact of The Puerto Rican Power. Whether you’re a salsa aficionado or new to the genre, you won't want to miss this deep dive into the rhythms that have captivated audiences around the world!

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Ready to get lost in the rhythm of Latin percussion? Legendary Latin percussionist Eric Velez steps into the spotlight in this Part 2 episode, taking us back in time to his early days with Marc Anthony's band, the thrill of performing at iconic clubs, and ultimately making the life-changing decision that would change his life musically forever. Listen in as  Eric paints  a vivid picture of a young musician exploring the world at just 18 years old.

We continue our journey through Eric  illustrious career, from his life moments  with the incomparable Tito Puente to his insights into preparing for a world tour. Eric  generously shares his experiences with us, including career highs of performing alongside Puente at Madison Square Garden!  This Part 2 episode is a treasure trove of Salsa tales and tips from someone who has lived through the evolution of the Latin music scene.

But that's not all; we also have Eric Velez, another trailblazing Latin percussionist known for his work with Marc Anthony. Eric gives us a glimpse into his life on tour, sharing his rituals for preparing for performances and the importance of hand care for a musician. As an added bonus, he also shares his experience of playing for two American presidents as part of Marc Anthony's band. So, tune in and let's immerse ourselves in the beats, the rhythm, and the stories of these extraordinary musicians.

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Eric Velez is one of the most respected Latino percussionists of his generation. He is of Puerto Rican descent, and was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. Eric learned to play congas, bongos, and timbales at the young age of three with the assistance of his brother. His first musical performance was with Grupo Fascinacion at the age of fifteen.  At the age of seventeen, Eric played with Eddie Palmieri and in 1993 made his first recording with Marc Anthony for the movie soundtrack “Carlito’s Way.”  In 1996, Eric continued to record under RMM Records with producer Isidro Infante. Eric also traveled with the RMM Band, featuring Tito Puente. In 1997, Eric joined Marc Anthony’s band and later that year performed for President Clinton’s 1997 Inaugural Ceremony.  A year later, Eric recorded with Celia Cruz.  In 1999, Eric joined D.L.G. and also recorded with various artists under record producer Sergio George.

Between 2000 and 2004, Eric performed with Marc Anthony on two tours, several TV shows, including Jay Leno, as well as the HBO Special: Marc Anthony the Concert. In 2005, Eric joined the “Juntos en Concierto Tour” featuring Marc Anthony. Later that year, Eric and his brother, Joe Juicy Jusino recorded a Salsa CD titled, “Juicy and Eric – Huracan.” In 2006, Eric went on another “Juntos en Concierto Tour 2” featuring Marc Anthony.  In October, Eric recorded with Marc Anthony for “Marc Anthony in Tenerife.”  In 2007, Eric continued to play with Marc Anthony and also began playing percussion with Jennifer Lopez and appeared on American Idol and David Letterman.  The following year, Drum! Magazine named Eric “Runner-up for Percussion Rising Star.”  

In 2009, Toca Percussion launched the Eric Velez Signature Series Congas and Bongos. In October, Eric returned to the White House and performed with Marc Anthony for the “Fiesta Latina” performance. Eric has received many renowned distinctions, including another award by Drum! Magazine in 2009.  He was named “Live Percussionist of the Year,” “Runner-up Percussionist of the Year,” “Runner-up Latin Percussionist of the Year,” and “Runner-up Percussion Product of the Year.”  In 2010, Eric’s influence was significantly recognized once again when he was awarded Drum! Magazine’s “Runner-up Live Performer of the Year” and “Runner-up Latin Percussionist of the Year.”  In May 2011, Eric performed with Marc Anthony during the season finale of American Idol. Once again, his accomplishments were recognized when Eric received the award for “Runner-up Latin Percussionist of the Year” by Drum! Magazine.

In 2012, Eric performed with Marc Anthony during the finale of Q’Viva: The Chosen. In June, Eric played for President Obama at the “Latinos for Obama Fundraiser” at the Jackie Gleason Theater.  That same year, Eric received an award by Drum! Magazine as “Runner-up Latin Percussionist of the Year.”  Eric toured this summer with the “GIGANT3S Tour” featuring Marc Anthony. He will be ending the year in Latin America with the “GIGANT2S Tour” featuring Marc Anthony. Eric is currently on Tour w/ Marc Anthony!

Hosted by Adrian  Montanez!

Bio Credit Toca Percussion 

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It’s 6:30 p.m. on a beautiful Thursday evening in New York City, moments away from El Rumbero del Piano, Eddie Palmieri, taking the stage to perform at Bryant Park. I run into my friend, longtime promoter and music aficionado Manny Soba, and we chat about his years in the industry. Soon after, we are joined by fellow promoter Izzy Rodriguez, "Pequeño Johnny" Rivero, and pianist Marcus Persiani. We have a quick conversation just before Eddie Palmieri greets New York City live!

**The thoughts views and opinions shared on this podcast as well as its host are for entertainment purposes only.**

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Get ready to dive into the heart of Puerto Rico with me as I take you on a whirlwind journey back to la Isla de Encanto! 🌴 In this episode, we’re reliving one of the year’s hottest concert events: “Los 100 años de Willie Rosario” at the legendary Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan. 🎶

Imagine this: April 27th, 2024 – the air is electric, and the excitement is palpable as the crowd gathers to celebrate the iconic Willie Rosario's century-long impact on the music scene. 🌟 But that’s not all – the night also featured unforgettable performances by the incredible Tony Vega and the charismatic Gilbertito Santa Rosa. Trust me, this was a concert you didn’t want to miss!

And guess what? It almost didn’t happen for me – yep, there was a moment I thought I’d miss out on this epic night. 😱 But, spoiler alert: I made it, and it was nothing short of spectacular! 🎤💥

Tune in to hear all about the thrilling performances, the electrifying atmosphere, and some behind-the-scenes stories you won’t want to miss. Grab your headphones and join me for a night of music, passion, and pure Puerto Rican magic! 🇵🇷🎶

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you love what you hear – your support keeps the music playing! 🎧✨

Que Viva Rosario!

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RAY SEPÚLVEDA was born into a Puerto Rican family that settled in New York. The salsa singer was inspired by Latin artists at a very young age, learning from his father, Ray Sepúlveda Sr., a bolero singer and recording artist with the Trío Los Románticos. He later performed with Frankie Ruíz in La Dictadura. In 1977, he joined Sociedad 76 Orchestra, and in 1983 joined the Adalberto Santiago Orchestra. In 1988 he formed the Johnny and Ray Orchestra with fellow Sociedad ’76 alum, percussionist Johnny Ray (Zamot), and recorded two albums. Sepúlveda went on to release five solo albums, and in 1992, his album, “Con Sabor” reached the Latin Billboard charts.



Hosted by Adrian Montanez 

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Jimmy Bosch is a world-class salsa and jazz artist Trombonist, Director, and Vocalist,  Performing in over 100 countries, and has been revolutionary in the New York style Afro Caribbean music known as

 “Salsa Dura” or Hard Salsa. Salsa Masters is performed by Bosch and his incredible band, Adan Perez, with Piano, and Background Vocals. Alex Apolo Ayala, Bass. Brian Pozo, Bongos, Bells, Background Vocals. Ricky Rosa, Timbales,Background Vocals. Jesus Muñoz, Congas. Daniel Arboleda, Tenor Sax. 

Jorge Castro, Baritone Sax. Guiro Gonzalez, Trumpet. Dan Lehner, Trombone.  Bosch has worked with Eddie Palmieri, Ruben Blades, Ray Barretto, Mambo Legends, and Pete El Conde Rodrigez.

Jimmy Bosch joins us for an extraordinary salsa podcast and will be Performing at SING AND SWING on Sunday, February 25th at 4 PM!   The concert is a celebration of the Great American Songbook featuring the spectacular trumpet and vocal talents, Bria Skonberg and Benny Benack III, with the opening act, the legendary salsa and jazz trombonist, Jimmy Bosch with his band Salsa Masters! 

Event: Lehman Center for the Performing Arts proudly presents Jazz at Lincoln Center SING AND SWING on Sunday, February 25th at 4 PM.

Tickets: at LehmanCenter.org
Sponsored by: Lehman Center!

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🎙️ Welcome to another exhilarating episode of the Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast! Get ready to journey back in time with me as we flip through the golden pages of the Copacabana and dive into the enchanting world of salsa. This time, our spotlight is on none other than the Fania Legend himself – Pete El Conde Rodriguez!

🕰️ Join me on a nostalgic ride as I recount the unforgettable moment of meeting Pete El Conde in the south Bronx back in 1995. Picture the energy, the rhythm, and the magic that unfolded as I connected with the salsa royalty in the heart of it all later having an opportunity meet some incredible musicians and later, dare to play a song or 2 in his band!

🔥 Expect stories that will transport you to a time when the salsa scene was at its peak, and the Copacabana 57th street was the epicenter of it all. Get ready for a salsa-infused adventure that will have you tapping your feet and yearning for the golden days of this iconic era!

Tune in and let the Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast whisk you away to a world where the rhythm is infectious, the memories are unforgettable,  and the Icons of salsa live forever! 🌟💃🎶

Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast is sponsored by
 Lehman Center for the Performing Arts!
Please visit: LehmanCenter.org for upcoming Salsa Concerts!

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GRAMMY AWARD NOMINATED Percussionist Wilson “Chembo” Corniel was
born in Manhattan on November 22, 1953 of proud Puerto Rican parents; Chembo
was raised in the humble streets of Red Hook, Brooklyn. It was during these years,
as a quick-witted youngster, that he had the privilege and honor to study with such percussion luminaries as, Tommy Lopez Sr., “Little Ray” Romero, Louie Bauzo, and Cachete Maldonado.Chembo honed his skills at The Harbor Conservatory for the Performing Arts in New York, and also at the prestigious La Escuela Nacional de Arte in Havana, Cuba under the direction of the great Chucho Valdés. 

In Cuba Chembo studied with Roberto Vizcaino Guillot, Jose Luis Quintana “Changuito”, Papo Angarica,
Alejandro Cavajal Guerra, Lazaro Poderoso, Julito Fantoma, Sandy Perez
(Grupo Afro Cuba De Mantanzas).

His intense studies with such legends noted above channeled his energy onto a path where Wilson “Chembo” Corniel has now created a reputation for himself among musicians and the public. Today, he is considered as one of the best hard-hitting, versatile percussionists around!

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