Que pasa in Los Angeles

Latin Beat Magazine, Sept, 2003 by Rudy Mangual

The news of the passing of "The Queen of Salsa" evoked an immense sense of grief to Angelinos familiar with her as well as a kind of stupefaction and awe to those who didn't. She graced the stages of Los Angeles at least twice a year, sharing her divine gift of song through commanding performances. In appreciation for all the love and joy that she brought to LA through her wonderful music, numerous tributes were held in her honor throughout the city. Radio salsa programs Alma del Barrio (KXLU 88.9 FM) from Loyola Marymount University and Canto Tropical (KPFK 90.7) paid tribute to the "Guarachera del Mundo" with radiothons of her music aired on Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20. Even commercial Spanish radio that normally ignores her music joined in the dedication as well. Every Latino artist, musician, entertainer, and DJ in town paid tribute in one way or another to the person and the music of Celia Cruz.

The renowned House of Blues nightclub in Hollywood, in association with Albert Torres Productions, paid tribute to the Queen of Salsa with an evening of live music honoring the late legendary Cuban icon. The event was held on Wednesday, August 6, 2003 and showcased the music of top local acts Odara (featuring Lázaro Galarraga, Guillermo Céspedes and Nengue Hernández), Orquesta Son Mayor, and Johnny Polanco and Conjunto Amistad, plus Super DJ Robby, DJ Frank and DJ Saoco.

Upcoming events include Latin Roots and Rock Concert with Los Lobos, Café Tacuba, and Kinky at the Hollywood Bowl on Sunday, September 7. Also on September 7 at the Ford Amphithearre ah evening of Fiesta Mexicana: Bailes, Sones y Cantares.

On Sarurday, September 20 you can enjoy "A Tribute to Poncho Sánchez," and on Saturday, September 27 "Boleros Under The Stars" featuring the legendary Trio Los Panchos, both events at the Ford Amphitheatre in Hollywood.

From New York City and coming our way is the group Son Boricua, who will be performing at the Sportsmen's Lodge in Studio City on Friday, October 10.

On Friday, October 31 Albert Torres Productions in association with Latin Beat Magazine will present a "Halloween Salsa Bash Party" featuring Johnny Polanco y su Conjunto Amistad and DJ Frank. There will be a costume contest with cash prizes. No masks please.

Congratulations to the local artists and bands enjoying new and debut recording projects: Ricardo Lemvo y Makina Loca (new) Ay Valeria!; Odara (debut) Odara; The L.A. Mambo Combo Latín Jazz Ensemble (debut) El Robo; Yari Moré (new) Con Todos Sus Exitos; Long John Oliva's AC Tiraba Jazz (new) Buscando La Ortografía; Querzal (new) Worksongs; Katia Moraes & Sambaguru (new) Live at La Ve Lee; Michael James Turre (new) Compositions; Tres Dos (debut) La Zona Ritmo; and Pablo (debut) Pablo.

The latest and the greatest of late for salsa dancing and dining is Mama Juana's in Studio City. Its intimate upscale ambience is a refreshing switch from the run-of-the-mill nightclubs around town. The venue features live salsa music throughout the week as well as disco and other clever-catchy theme dance nights. Check with club for calendar of events.

Our neighbors on the big island of Hawaii will be celebrating their annual "2003 Latin Salsa Music Festival" at the Ala Moana Hotel on Friday September 26. This year's event will be headlined by the San Francisco group Mystique plus local favorites Rolando Sánchez and Salsa Hawaii plus Conjunto Tropical. For more information rail 808-342-0911.

September is Hispanic Heritage Month. Many cities and town ships will be honoring the efforts of outstanding Latinos in their communities. Check your local City Hall for more information in your area.