Paying tribute to Joe that night were California's Boogaloo Assassins who despite their West Coast origins have their roots very deep into the music of Spanish Harlem. I seriously encourage our readers to go check them out whenever they perform as you won't be disappointed.
Chico Mann played an energetic set that kept both feet within the old foundation and new steps of Afrobeat. Formed by a member of the Bushwick based Antibalas who follow the same mold as Fela's Africa 70 and the Harlem River Drive Orchestra.
In between the bands DJs Bobbito Garcia and DJ Turmix kept the crowd moving playing hot Latin soul and Jazz. The whole evening was real special to me having grown up in Spanish Harlem. It felt like I was being treated to not only my childhood, but my entire family's past.
Gilberto Miguel Calderón aka Joe Cuba was born and raised in Spanish Harlem on April 22, 1931 and is The King of Boogaloo. He is responsible for many ways Puerto Ricans play and enjoy music- he was the first to introduce vibes to Latin music as well as place Congas on a stand and founded the Museum of La Salsa. By playing music in both English and Spanish, Cuba's music would entertain all crowds in New York City. Joe Cuba passed away on February 15, 2009, but that night we knew that Sonny lives on in various and magnificent ways. His efforts and contribution to the musical community won't ever be forgotten.
El Alcalde Del Barrio The Architect of the Nuyorican Sound is out now on Fania Records.
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