From the editor … - Editorial

Latin Beat Magazine, June-July, 2002 by Rudy Mangual

Another summer season is upon us with the promise of good weather, longer days, outdoor activities and the return of music festivals everywhere. This is the best time of the year to enjoy live music in outdoor settings, relishing in the beauty of nature. With the aid of efficient sound systems and knowledgeable sound personnel, outdoor concerts can be incomparable musical experiences. The sensation of sitting on the grass or in your favorite beach chair, under a clear sky, listening to live music is exhilarating. For some reason, outdoor concert and festival audiences seem friendlier, livelier and more animated. Perhaps it's because the cost of most summer shows is usually reasonable, fair, or, in many cases, free of charge. Big corporations sponsor numerous events to promote their products to the large crowds, therefore allowing for most of these events to be free to the public. A call or web visit to your local parks and recreation agencies will provide you with a schedule of the performances taking place in your area. Also check your local newspapers and publications for upcoming schedules of concerts, festivals and tours heading your way. This is a great time of the year to spend outdoors with the whole family.

For a bit of industry news, Univision Communications Inc., the leading U.S. Spanish-language broadcaster, recently acquired the Fonovisa record label. Fonovisa, who had been the leading regional Mexican label in the country, will now be under the Univision Music Group (UMG) empire. After several other recent acquisitions by Univision (programming from Mexico's Grupo Televisa and the purchasing of 50 percent of Disa Records, which focuses more on tropical acts) the Univision Music Group will have control of three different Latin music-recording labels. What all this means is that UMG will be holding about 35 percent of the Latin music market in the United States and Puerto Rico. The new headquarters for UMG will be in Woodland Hills, California.

To complete the ultimate Latin music summer experience, we present the June/July 2002 issue of Latin Beat Magazine. On the following pages you can find great information about some of your favorite Latin music artists and bands of the past as well as the present. This summer's feature story is Part I of Eddie Palmieri: The Sun of Latin Music, written by our contributing writer from New York City, Louie Laffitte. From the pen of senior editor Max Salazar you can enjoy Machito's Legacy, a short article highlighting some of the achievements of this extraordinary singer/bandleader. Contributing writer/author Frank M. Figueroa brings to the forefront an important piece: The Cuatro: Puerto Rico's National Instrument, a brief history on this popular string instrument from Borinquen. Plus much more great music news, information and CD reviews.

Have a great and safe summer season.