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It has long fascinated me that Italy boasts great talent in salsa music production -- whether by Italian musicians, musicians based in Italy but of a different heritage, or Italian DJs who make music. Spotlighting "Italian salsa" is the theme of Episode 42. Although I once visited Italy to run the Rome Marathon several years ago, unfortunately I did not attend any Italian salsa events. Therefore, I am certainly not an expert on Italian salsa, but in my attempt to compile a list of Italian musicians and DJs (as defined above), the result was certainly a very long list which remains unfinished (see here ). Clearly, music production in Italy really shines when compared to other countries where salsa is not mainstream. So I have ventured to go through my collection and sample a selection of songs to represent Italian salsa. This is no easy task, especially with a 2-hour show limit. Nonetheless, it is an interesting challenge. My choice of songs avoids obvious anthems and leans towards lesser known material while also limiting the share of the pie by certain prolific artists. As a bonus, appearing on the episode is Francisco Rojos, a pioneering DJ, music producer, and creator of the Latin web magazine and music label Salsa.it . In an interview, he will share his thoughts and I hope to spotlight the following points with listeners. a brief history of salsa in Italy an introduction to several salsa songs which come from Italian popular music an overview of his own pioneering role in the Italian salsa scene His choice of several Italian songs -- including his own -- will be played on the show, which starts with a 35-minute mix of some of my favourite Italian salsa tunes from recent years. To learn more about Francisco Rojos, check out his profile on the Salsa.it website as well as his podcast, Latin Connection , which is a collaboration with Radio Quisqueya. Both are in Italian. Thanks to Fabrizio Zoro  (DJ, composer, music producer, and director of La Maxima 79 ) who was a guest on Episode 14 , for introducing me to Francisco Rojos. Tune in on September 12 for a special show. Please note that it will be conducted in Spanish. Encanto Tropical 42 La Salsa de Italia 12.09.2024 Thu Broadcasting from Japan 21:00~ 5am PT / 8am ET / 1pm UK / 14.00 CET www.worldsalsaradio.com How to listen to the live broadcast < NEXT POST                  PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

Ready for replay is 'Versions' (25 tracks, 2:04:20). See the link at the bottom of the page. The topic is salsa cover songs. See the pre-broadcast post for context. Artists included are listed below. Full attribution is provided on the show.   Africando All Stars Calle Vapor Carlos D'Castro Eddie Torres And His Mambo Kings Orchestra Franco et l'orchestre O.K. Jazz German Villareal & Mambo Big Band Irving Manuel Joe Quijano & His Orchestra Kevin Davis & Ban Caribe King Bongo La Cali Salsa Big Band & José Aguirre La-33 Mambo Legends Orchestra Manny Mendez Melcochita Mikata New Swing Sextet Orquesta Magia Caribeña Federico Junior Saxomania Sonora Matancera Tributo & Issac Delgado Soneros de Fe VibraSÓN Williamsburg Salsa Orchestra Zoe Tiganouria This was an interesting project. It was fun doing the research, and I plan to follow up with a Part 2. REPLAY EPISODE 36 Next Episode 37 Open Session (3) < NEXT POST                  PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

An open session with no theme, Episode 37 has 26 tracks (2:01:45). Replay below. REPLAY EPISODE 37 Next Episode 38 Cuba Session (3) Image by freepik < NEXT POST                 PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

Episode 36 is about salsa cover versions. It broadcasts on June 13th. Cover songs are common in the salsa world; much of what you hear is not an original composition but rather an adaption or rearrangement of an another song, whether an earlier salsa song or one of an older style, such as a son, guaracha, or mambo. It could be a cover of a Spanish-language song of a different genre or a salsa version made from popular music in English. Even material from classical music has inspired a few salsa covers. Instrumental covers certainly exist, too. Cover songs can vary in the way they adapt the original. Areas to consider are vocals, key instruments, lyrics (if translated or changed), tempo, pitch, and other arrangements. Knowing the original allows you to identify both the similarities and the differences in the newer version. More importantly, learning about cover versions can expand horizons and shed light on the art of interpretation, which is a rewarding part of music appreciation, whether or not it is salsa music. Especially interesting can be the background story or context of a cover version. Since salsa includes many songs that can be identified as covers in one way or another, it would not be difficult to make a two-hour session of such songs. However, the curation in Episode 36 is an attempt to find particularly rewarding examples of context in cover versions. One such song is “Volare” by the Puerto Rican band Rafael Cortijo y Su Combo (feat. Ismael Rivera) released in the late 1950s (or 1960). Also notable is the 2000 tribute song of the same title by Son Boricua , with Jimmy Sabater on vocals. Compare these with the popular jazz ballad of “Volare” by Dean Martin , who sang in both English and Italian while Cortijo's and Son Boricua's are in Spanish. Notably, the Spanish lyrics do not appear to be the same as the original Italian although they are similar enough to say that -- along with an identical music score but at a higher tempo -- the song keeps the spirit of the original. However, the title of the song somewhat hides the original tune by Italian singer and songwriter Domenico Modugno, who jointly shares credit for the Italian lyrics with Franco Migliacci. The title is "Nel blu, dipinto di blu”, which translates as “In the blue [sky]”, and the word volare  is the main chorus. It was released in early 1958. A timeless hit both in its native Italy and around the world, numerous versions in different languages came into being over the years. A French instrumental version by Ben sa tumba et son Orchestre (labeled as a mambo) uses a direct translation for its title: “Dans le bleu du ciel bleu” (see video below). Among other transformations is the foray into the Spanish Americas by Cortijo, under the same title as Dean Martin’s version in the US which was released in August, 1958. "Volare" is not in the playlist for Episode 36 "Versions", but the song selection includes brief contextual information that is hopefully as enlightening as the story behind "Volare". Some tracks are remakes of an earlier salsa song, some are adapted from classic styles, and others are cross-genre covers, which are especially interesting to note. One song in particular is a rare gem: a salsa version of a bolero originally sung by Hector Lavoe. Tune in to find out what it is! While listeners may be familiar with most songs, it may come as an interesting surprise to understand their origins. Share the journey of discovery with me on June 13 on World Salsa Radio . Feedback and commentary are always welcome. Sources: Wikipedia / Discogs / YouTube Next Episode 37 Open Session (3) < NEXT POST PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

Episode 41 is a tribute to songwriter Catalino Curet Alonso, who is considered one of the most prolific (and important) composers in salsa. Replay below (1:58:58, 24 tracks). 'Tite' Curet -- as he was commonly known -- reportedly composed more than 2000 songs, many of which are considered salsa anthems although perhaps his recognition is overshadowed by the musicians who made such great interpretations of his work, such as several stars of the Fania label as well as fellow musicians from Puerto Rico. However, there is no doubt about his great talent, interesting nature, and inspiring character. This episode serves as a very basic introduction. While preparing for this episode, I was amazed to learn so much about 'Tite' Curet as well as the details of several of his songs. There is definitely enough material for a Part 2! Stay tuned! Read the pre-broadcast post for more context. One rule that I stuck to in the song selection was not to include more than one song by any given artist. For this reason, I also included a few cover songs, that is to say, there are compositions by 'Tite' Curet' played by artists other than the ones who did the primary recording. For this reason, I included a cover of "Anacaona" because I wanted to feature the singer Cheo Feliciano in another work: "Salí Porque Salí". There are other examples. The objective was to strike a balance between several salsa anthems and lesser-known works by 'Tite' Curet. All around, I believe it is an interesting collection of songs from a range of great artists and their interpretations of this great songwriter. Included are two tracks sung by the composer himself, with instrumentation directed by his friend Jorge Millet who shines on the piano and vibraphone -- check the show to hear all these tunes! Full attribution is provided on the show. I must note my sources (listed on the pre-broadcast post ) and a special nod to a book by Andrés Espinoza Agurto as well as a podcast by Michigan State University: Andrés Espinoza Agurto (Michigan State University Press, 2021): Salsa Consciente: Politics, Poetics, and Latinidad in the Meta-Barrio MSU Press Podcast: Salsa Consciente: Politics, Poetics, and Latinidad in the Meta-Barrio Replay below. Enjoy! REPLAY EPISODE 41 Next Episode 42 Salsa de Italia September 12, 2024 5am PT / 8am ET / 1pm UK / 14:00 CET / 21:00 Japan < NEXT POST                   PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

Episode 41 is a tribute to the prolific songwriter Catalino 'Tite' Curet Alonso of Puerto Rico. He composed more than 2000 songs. A list of nearly 600 notable compositions is here . I spotlight two dozen of his salsa compositions with some context and translation. This includes a few 'cover versions', or interpretations by artists other than those who made original recordings, and also two songs sung by himself. ​This is another episode where simple but rewarding research is part of my preparation. As a basic introduction to this important composer, listeners can discover the nature and genius of Tite Curet Alonso from a selection of songs played by a range of singers/musicians, such as Cheo Feliciano, Rafael Cortijo, Ismael Rivera, Willie Colon, and the Lebron Brothers --among others. The song selection aims to deliver a balance between certain salsa 'anthems' and lesser-known material. Background I first thought about doing a show on Tite Curet Alonso while reading the book Salsa Consciente , where his significance as an influential songwriter in the world of salsa was poignantly explained. A related podcast featuring an interview with the book's author, Andrés Espinoza Agurto , highlighted this point while stressing the humanitarian or socially-aware nature of his song compositions. From the start of my budding interest in salsa music as a collector, I regularly spotted the name "Tite Curet Alonso" in the credits on CDs or records. (Some examples of songs that I like are 'Primoroso Cantar', 'Sali Porque Sali', 'El Solitario', and 'Con los Pobres Estoy'). However, I was not aware of his truly prolific nature nor of his contribution to a Latino identity until I read Salsa Consciente. Also inspiring was watching a video in which Ruben Blades talks about Tite Curet Alonso (see below). ------ Further INFORMATION ONLINE MSU Press Podcast: Salsa Consciente: Politics, Poetics, and Latinidad in the Meta-Barrio New York Latin Culture Magazine: Tite Curet Alonso, The Salsa Poet, Wrote Many Salsa Hits, But is Not Credited PR Sun Communications: Catalino “Tite” Curet Alonso: A Man & His Music JazzDeLaPlena: Remembering Composer Catalino Tite “Curet” Alonso Wikipedia: Tite Curet Alonso BOOKS Andrés Espinoza Agurto (Michigan State University Press, 2021): Salsa Consciente: Politics, Poetics, and Latinidad in the Meta-Barrio NEXT Episode 42 Salsa de Italia September 12, 2024 5am PT / 8am ET / 13:00 UK / 14:00 CET / 21:00 Japan < NEXT POST                  PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

Episode 40 highlights salsa songs with a great solo section, whether with piano or other instrument types like strings, brass, percussion, and bass. Replay below (2:05:07, 24 tracks). I will guess that most DJs and salsa enthusiasts are in agreement that songs with a solo part have special appeal compared with those without a solo. It is certainly a thrill to hear a musician given some time during a song to add their personal flair on the instrument of their choice. At times, a solo comes across as the work of a genius. This episode of Encanto TropicaI contains 24 such tracks which especially ring true for me -- I emphasize the selection is highly personal in nature and not meant to be authoritative. Surely, there are hundreds of amazing salsa songs with 'fabulous' solos. While the most common kind of solo in salsa might be with the piano, I wanted to also include solos with other instruments, such as the trombone, trumpet, saxophone, congas, bongos, contrabass, violin, cuatro/tres and electric guitar. Featured artists include Larry Harlow, Mongo Santamaria, Alfredo de la Fe, Israel Lopez 'Cachao' and José Mangual Jr, to name only a few well-known salsa musicians. There is so much material to work with that I can easily imagine a Part 2 on this theme. Stay tuned. In the meantime, I hope listeners can enjoy these 24 tracks -- some of which are commonly known, but others may not be. Full attribution is provided on the show. Replay below. Pa' gozar! REPLAY EPISODE 40 Next Episode 41 Tito Curet Alonso Tribute < NEXT POST                 PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

Episode 39 features songs which contain the Spanish word for 'life' (vida) in the lyrics. To replay, click on the link at the bottom of this page (1:59:20, 27 tracks). Read about the planning and context of this show in the pre-broadcast post . The session resulted in a good compilation of sayings and observations about life. It was quite astonishing to learn just how many salsa songs include the word 'vida' in their lyrics, so I had no trouble making a shortlist, but this means a Part 2 should be in the works too, then. Full attribution is provided on the show. REPLAY EPISODE 39 Next Episode 40 Fabulous Solos < NEXT POST                  PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

On July 13, World Salsa Radio had its annual fundraising event, marking four years since DJ Felipe Martinez started his internet radio station dedicated to salsa and Latin music enthusiasts. Encanto Tropical is one of the many shows broadcast via World Salsa Radio, so it was a pleasure to take part in the event with a one-hour set. Replay is available below. My set lacks a theme; instead I played a mix of song types to represent the wide range of material I like to cover here at Encanto Tropical, whether vintage salsa or contemporary salsa, salsa brava or salsa romantica, or Cuban salsa or salsa from elsewhere. Twelve tracks, 0:55:37. REPLAY 4th Anniversary - DJ Angel SET Next Episode 39 La Vida < NEXT POST                 PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

A 'Cuban' salsa session makes up Episode 38. Click below to replay (1:58:22, 26 tracks). Episode 38 is the 3rd all-Cuban set in Encanto Tropical’s show list. (See Session 1 and Session 2 ). It includes 26 tracks from a playlist I made for a fantastic gig as guest DJ in May for a Cuban style party at La Tropi Azabu in Tokyo. It was a wonderful time providing the soundtrack with main DJ Baila Aqui while working with the other event organizers (Yu-san and Kazue-san) of ‘Cuba 99%’ to make it a memorable and crazy night of timba, son, and salsa cubana. The bar was packed until the very end and there was a great dynamic with the dancers. The show’s length is 1:58:22. Full attribution is provided, including such artists as the following. Manana Club Lazarito Valdés y Bamboleo Timbalive La Charanga Habanera Sounds of Cuba Cuba Libre Son Band REPLAY EPISODE 38 Next Episode 39 La Vida < NEXT POST                 PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

Back in May I deejayed at a popular Cuban party in the Roppongi area of Tokyo. It had been a while since I played exclusively Cuban music, and it was a fun time. My co-DJ was fantastic and kept the bar high, so it was such a wonderful night of Cuban vibes. Feeling inspired by memories of that night, I dip into my archives to build Episode 38 for Encanto Tropical -- Musica Cubana (3) to broadcast on July 11… Cuban Session (3) Image by freepik Next Episode 39 La Vida < NEXT POST                  PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs

There is a fine line between easy and difficult when making a session with only Fania Records material — this was a tribute show marking its 60th anniversary — but I aimed for balance between popular anthems and personal faves. Episode 35 can be replayed at the bottom of this page (25 tracks, 2:03:31). Artists included are listed below. Full attribution is given on the show.   Adalberto Santiago Alfredito & His Orchestra Bobby Valentin Bronco  Celia Cruz & Ray Barretto Cheo Feliciano Fania All-Stars (x2) Hector Lavoe Jimmy Sabater Johnny Colon Latin Tempo Lebron Brothers Louie Ramirez Monguito Santamaria Orchestra Harlow Orquesta La Conspiracion Johnny Pacheco Pete “El Conde” Rodríguez Ralph Robles Ray Barretto Ricardo “Richie” Ray & Bobby Cruz Roberto Roena Y Su Apollo Sound Típica 73 Willie Colon & Héctor Lavoe The list of artists spans several labels in the Fania universe, as it was a parent company with sub-labels it either established or acquired, such as Alegre, Cotique, International, and Vaya. Note that several of the artists featured here were not exclusively on Fania, but the songs selected for the show are from the Fania discography. Read the pre-broadcast post for more context. This show is Part 1 of a two-part series. The follow-up is due in the summer and will cover other Fania artists, such as Tito Puente, Ruben Blades, and Orestes Vilató. Fania Records is owned by Concord .  REPLAY EPISODE 35 Next Episode 36 Versions < NEXT POST                  PREVIOUS POST > Encanto Tropical is a part of World Salsa Radio with DJ Angel Figueroa Broadcasting from Chiba, Japan 2nd & 4th Thursdays Subscribe  for email updates about Encanto Tropical Visit World Salsa Radio for more programs