December 30, 2002 -- Frankie Martinez song...

Hello Rose, I was wondering if anyone gave you the name of the song that's playing in the Frankie Martinez social dancing clip on your website? I really like the song, but I have no clue what it is. Can you help me? Thanks a million, Marc-Edward, Mambo Legend... in training from Montreal

I was recently in Cuba and there were two songs they constantly played. One song kept saying loca and translated into english, "cross your hands, loca, turn around , loca, clap your hands, loca, loca, loca" something of that sort. I know it's very vague but if anyone knows what I'm talking about, please let me know because I really liked the song. As well, there was another song that had a mix of every type of spanish dancing to it, salsa, merengue, a little arabic, and it sounded like they kept saying GLORIA in it. Thanx, Niousha

Below one wonderful Cuban guy made this comment to me in reference to a quote Willie Colon made in an interview about Salsa De Nueva York:

Cuban friend:
"you can tell when some one is b.s.ing. Now he can play salsa without one bit of cuban music? wow. so how will he do without a clave?"

Then I told Willie:

"I guess he's saying that if you use the clave then it's still Cuban!".

Here what Willie asked me to tell my wonderful Cuban friend:

"Pobrecito....

Mapeye, tango, batucada, calypso, samba (has clave), cumbia, aguinaldo, tamborito, seis, ballenato, bomba (has clave), plena, gaita, ska, guapango, jala jala, WAC, balada, llanera, berimbau, bossa (has clave), bachata, merengue, reggae, orisa, rhumba flamenca (has clave), ... NOT CUBAN!

I guess what really hurts them is the part about Beny Mori and Maelo."

When I pointed out that Bo Didley's music has the clave and asked him (Cuban friend)if it were Cuban too? He answered, "No, but it has Cuban influence". I responded, "Same with Salsa", and he said, "Salsa has more than Cuban influence, but that's another story" A story with no substance of course! But here's another comment he made. He a cool person but like most people...can't let go!

Reiterating to Cuban friend:

"so when it uses the son percussion patterns, then it is not salsa right?"

Here is Willie's response:

"Ask him if African music has Cuban influence too. Did they teach the slaves how to play their drums. Hey! It could be! Seeing as it all started in Cuba!"

Note: "THEY" is not all Cuban people, but ONLY those whose constantly argue that we stole this and we copied that. Music is universal, and when one records an old tune (usually done in an advance format), be it Cuban, Rican, Dominican or whatever...that is a "COMPLIMENT" which is the highest form of flattery!

I HAVE A QUESTION? Is Luis Miguel and all other non Cubans who sing boleros...producing, selling, singing CUBAN MUSIC? -- Janemas

To give also a little recommendation i have written down some tracks. Yes, i have seen your recommendation of November, 2002 with Wayne Gorbea and Spanish Harlem Orchestra. I only want to show to Salsa newcomers that it is not very expensive to get a lot of good music on only two CDs. -- DJ Manfred, Germany

click here to go to the Top 10 Salsa Song Lists

To give also a little recommendation i have written down some tracks. Yes, i have seen your recommendation of November, 2002 with Wayne Gorbea and Spanish Harlem Orchestra. I only want to show to Salsa newcomers that it is not very expensive to get a lot of good music on only two CDs. -- DJ Manfred, Germany

click here to go to the Top 10 Salsa Song Lists

PLEASE NOTE THAT EDDIE SANTIAGO DOES NOT SING DEVORAME OTRA VEZ, LALO RODRIGUEZ SINGS THAT. THANK YOU :) -- Rosalyn

i wanted to tell you you were doing an incredible job! i can't stop those videos you put on your web site... i was wondering if you found the titles of the songs, i mean the one that frnkie is dancing on and the one with the kids.

Hi... For weeks I've been searching for the lyrics of "Solo Te Pido" performed by Ruben DJ, but my search had no success. Perhaps you can help me to get the lyrics of this great song! Many thanks in advance, Alexander Klein, Germany

Hi I am looking for the lyrics to Tito Nieves "Otra Onda" I need the whole album. Aida

hi! I'm a 28-year-old Salsa, Merengue, Cha cha cha, Bachata and Samba fan from Istanbul, Turkey! I have been attending classes for a few months, and I immensely enjoy it! I'd like to find the sites that will provide me with the lyrics of these songs. I'd kindly ask you whether you have a ready list. thank you in advance..... Yavuz

Dear Yavuz, I have lyrics on my site, but the best way is to type the name of the song and the word lyrics in a search engine, such as google.com, and then you'll know if there are any lyrics on the web. Rose

Hi there, I just returned from the Dominican Republic and have fallen in love with Aventura. I see that they've recently been in Toronto (before I discovered them). Do you think they will do another concert here anytime soon? Rebecca

Dear Rebecca, unfortunately, it may be awhile before you might see them again in Toronto. I would suggest you go into Google search engine, look for their site and you may be able to contact them regarding a concert schedule. Rose

I'm hoping you can help me out, since your very comprehensive site suggests a full knowledge of everything Salsa in T.O.

I see the top 10 lists of what CDs to buy, but I don't see a list of where to buy these CDs.

Now Sam's, HMV, and a few others, while they have pretty good selections of various CDs, many times, their cuban or specialty sections are, well, lacking (Don't even get me started on Future Shop!)

Also, I don't mind spending money for something, but at the same time, I'm not going to feel particularly comfortable spending over $25 for one CD. (Yet I'll spend over $60 for 3-4. Funny, huh?) So...

Where do you go? (I'm new in town) Can you help me out? (I'm also shopping for Christmas) Thanks. -M

Dear M, you can check out two music stores in Toronto which are totally dedicated to latin music -- Super Latin Music and Rincon Hispano. Whatever they don't have, you can order, but the nice part is you can listen to the CD's before you buy. If you want to check out albums on the net -- as I mentioned before, there are three sites where you can find sample audioclips of quite a few different latin artists or albums... www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.cdnow.com. If you go to my music links section, you'll find lots of links to various music sites... good luck shopping!

I was wondering if anyone can tell me the name of the song in the video "Kids Social Dancing -- A Must See!" and Descarga Latina. I would also like to know the groups name. I really enjoy those songs and i have no idea what the names of them are. Can you please tell me? Alejandro

Dear Alejandro, I would also love to know who sings that song in the video "Kids Social Dancing". Descarga Latina was dancing to Merecumbe by Johnny Colon. Rose

Hi There, I have just recently heard of Aventura and was wondering if you could direct me somewhere in Toronto where I could purchase their Album. Thanks, Jennifer

Dear Jennifer, you can check with Rincon Hispano or Super Latin Music. Rose

BESAME PRONTO VA AMANECER
ABRAZAME, NO HAY MAS TIEMPO QUE PERDER
EXCITAME, CON TUS BESOS DE MIEL
SEDUCEME, MIRAME,
QUIERO VER EN TU MIRADA
LA PASION, Y SENTIR QUE TU ME AMAS
PIEL A PIEL, NOS HUNDIMOS EN LAS IIAMAS
SEDUCEME………..
SE QUE MANANA NO ESTARAS,
Y ANUNQUE ME DUELA, TU TE VAS
CERCA O LEJOS, ME EXTRANARAS
ELO AMOR VIENE Y SE VA
VIVEREMOS DEL MOMENTO, SEDUCEME………….
PORQUE TU ERES PARTE DE MI VIDA
Y EN MI CORAZON, YO SIGO CONVENCIDA
QUE ESE OTRO AMOR, NO TE HACE FELICZ, NI TE HACE SENTIR, LO QUE ES VIVIR
SE QUE MANANA, NO ESTARAS
Y ANUNQUE ME DUELA, TU TE VAS
CERCA O LEJOS, ME EXTRANARAS
EL AMOR VIENE Y SE VA
VIVEREMOS DEL MOMENTO…… SEDUCEME……….
SOLAMENTE TENEMOS UNAS HORAS DE COMPARTIR
Y POR ULTIMA VEZ, QUESIERA TENER, TU CUERPO SOBRE MI..SOMRE MI
VEN Y SEDUCEME
DAME TU CARINO, VEN Y SEDUCEME…….. MI AMOR
SE QUE MANANA NO ESTARAS
Y ANUNQUE ME DUELA, TU TE VAS
CERCA O LEJOS, ME EXTRANARAS
EL AMOR VIENE Y SE VA
VIVEREMOS DEL MOMENTO
SEDUCEME………………………
BESAME, ARRAZAME, SEDUCEME
EXITAME CON TUS BESOS DE MIEL
SEDUCEME QUIERO SENTIR TU PIEL
BESAME, ABRAZAME, SEDUCEME
NO HAY MAS TIEMPO QUE PERDER VEN ACARISAME
QUIERO CONTIGO AMANECER
BESAME, ABRAZAME, SEDUCEME
SE QUE MANANA NO ESTARAS
Y ANUNQUE ME DUELA TU TE VAS
VAMOS A VIVIR LOS NUESTROS, VIVEREMOS DEL MOMENTO
SEDUCEME,
BESAME, ABRAZAME, SEDUCEME, BESAME AMAME QUIERO SENTIR TU MIRADA LA PASION SEDUCEME…………

Hi Rose, Firstly, I must congratulate you on this terrific web-site - lots for everyone. I was wondering whether you would know the name of a song which is a cross between swing and salsa - it used to be played (reasonably often) at the Courthouse but I've never been able to catch it's name. I think part of the lyrics goes like this "...this music is for dancing, and women are for too..." Thanks much.

Dear S, doesn't strike a "bell" with me, maybe DJ Fab will know....

I heard this song in the D.R and every tourist loved it. Where can I hear it on the internet? David

Dear George, just do a search in www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com and www.cdnow.com and through search engines to find links to listen to songs on this album. It's so popular, it should be easy to find... Rose

I just want to make clear that MACHITO "Frank Grillo" was born in Havana Cuba in 1908 (in Jesus Maria), the confusion about his birth in Tampa was due that he wanted to solve some naturalization documents by declaring to the us authorities that he was born in Tampa. I got all this information from a book written by CRITOBAL DIAZ AYALA called "Cuando Sali De La Habana".

Lo siento...pero es mejor aceptarlo
Lo siento...será mejor olvidarnos
Lo siento por el amor que tengo...
Pero faltaba una gota para colmar este vaso.
Lo siento...por tantos sueños perdidos
Lo siento...por tu dolor... por el mio
Lo siento...por el sabor tan amargo,
Que se me queda en la boca, y ya no puedo endulzarlo.
Lo siento...por tantos celos absurdos
Lo siento...por no poder enternder es tu mundo
Lo siento...si que de veras lo siento
Si eras quien despertaba mi cuerpo
Lo siento...si que de veras lo siento
Si eras amor el agua de mi desierto.

December 4, 2002 -- Information on !950s Afrocuban big bands

Does anybody have any information about music in the style of Beny More, I find modern Salsa very tame and absolutley love "El Mambo" of the 1950s. The discussion about the New York recordings is very interesting I recently obtained a Tito Puente album and found it to be awful. G. Pucurull

I am trying to find the Spanish lyrics for "Luz De Cumbia" as recorded by La Sonora Carruseles. If you have them, would you please send. If you don't, do you know where I could find them? Thanks, Joe

Sorry, I'm not familiar with that song... maybe one of the readers can help? Rose

Dear Jason, I love it when the answer is easy, it's Merecumbe by Johnny Colon.

AFTER FEW MONTHS OF RESEARCH...

One of your readers was asking:
"March 16, 2002
Hi Rose, I was wondering if you or any of your readers could help me find name/artist of song. I've already done searches on yahoo/google/ amazon but no luck. Here are some of the lyrics to this fast-paced salsa song that someone else must've heard before."

The answer is:
EDWIN BONILLA -- Son de mi tierra
Album: Edwin Y Su Son

Take care,
Martin Mc Nicoll
Montreal, Canada

September 25, 2002 -- New Salsa Song

Hi Rose, There's a new salsa song out...I think it's by Lenny Kravitz....do you know the name of the song?.. it's played in the English version. Thank you for your assistance. Claudette

Dear Claudette, it's funny you should mention this song, because over a year ago, I was told about this great song by Mark at Soles Dance Studio as he knew I was always looking to find out about great salsa songs that I might never have heard of before. What's funny is that it's not really new, but for whatever reason is starting to get played by some of our Toronto DJ's and I have to admit it sounds awesome in the clubs. The name of the song is "Thinking of You".

I have looked "unsuccessfully" for the last 6 months trying to find this song.. (the salsa version). I would appreciate any assistance you could offer in locating it.. Thanks. Sam

Abrazos & KDS.. (Keep Dancing Salsa)
The purpose of dancing is to love doing it!

Hi Sam, this wasn't easy to find, but I located a site with the info on the album which was really a Lenny Kravitz single with remixes. Hope this helps... Rose

Hi, I visited Cuba in 1957. The top song on the Cuban hit parade was "Triana Moreno" by a group called "Los Roffinos" (spelling?) I bought a record and brought it home but I can't find it. Anyone know anything about this group. I would like to know if any of their music has been reissued on a CD. -- Gerard

I REALLY NEED THE LYRICS FOR THE AVENTURA OBSECCION (REMIX) (ENGLISH VERSION) ID APPRECIATE IT I NEED IT CUZ I WANNA DO THAT SONG FOR A TALENT SHOW IN MY SCHOOL NEXT MONTH PLEASE -- Alonso

Dear Alonso, I don't have them but maybe one of the Readers can you help you out... or worst case scenario, do what alot of others do, sit there and write/type out all the words the old-fashioned way. Rose

October 27, 2002 -- and not to mention the after party at Lula's

Just to add to your comments about the Celia Cruz concert... many people headed to Lula Lounge after the concert where Con Cache filled the room with high enery Salsa! When you thought the night couldn't end on much of a better note, the timbales and bongo players from Celia's orchestra, along with one of the back up singers, dropped by for a final farewell. They got up on stage and jammed with the band ... I have never felt so much passion and energy in one room before. It was an incredible experience.

Is the crowd drawing to the places where the live bands are? I'd say 'yes' after seeing the reaction on Saturday.

Always...
a dedicated fan of the live bands (S.A., C.C., Q.P.)

I was wondering if you can post Andy Andy the bachata singer his new song lyric Can't remember the title but he sings it to a girl who he is in love and wants her to be back with him and he says he says how God is his only witness for their love. Okay I don't know if you know, if not, I'll try to get the title -- Helen

Dear Helen, sorry I'm not familiar with the songs from that Artist, maybe one of the Readers may know. Rose

October 26, 2002 -- Music-related

Hi Rose! I continued reading some of the questions people had and here are some answers. Starting from:

1-January 20, 2002 -- me gustaria mucho que me dijeras donde puedo conseguir una de las canciones de Carlos manuel que recientemente escuche en la Habana que se llama "La manana en la Cabeza" o por favor si exite algun sitio en internet de donde la pueda bajar Gracias Carolina
Hermosillo gSonora Mexico
Can you tell me where I can find a song by Carlos Manuelle that I recently heard in Havana, Cuba. The name of the song is "LA MANANA EN LA CABEZA" or do we know of a website to download the song.
Dear Readers, anyone have any info?

The song is not called LA MANANA EN LA CABEZA but.....La manzana; meaning, the apple. Carolina can find a download at http://www.ctcollection.com/Music.htm

2-July 27, 2002 -- Lyric Request Hi my name is Nicole and I seriously need help in findng lyrics to a particular song that no one seems to have. I'm pretty sure the name of the song is "A que saben tus besos" by Anthony Cruz.
If you would please help in my quest I'd really appreciate it. I would like to dedicate and sing this song to to someone, and this song is perfect for us, being that we're friends and have never
kissed! PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you, Nicole
Dear Nicole, I did a quick check in the search engines and came up empty, maybe if you're lucky, one of our spanish readers might be able to help you. Rose

I don't know the lyrics, and they appear to be nowhere on the net... all you can find is the CD, this links below sell it at a VERY
low price, compare to how it is on the street.

http://www.francialatina.com/fr/salsa/a_cruz.htm
OR
http://spanishgoodies.safeshopper.com/79/220.htm?825

3-September 20, 2002
Regarding my letter posted on January 1, 2002. Thank you Lisa, thanks a lot, yeah that's the name of that song, I finally got it, it's Mentirosa by Lou Ramirez, your e-mail helped a lot, well now I have a new question, and since I got a positive experience last time I e-mailed you guys, I wanted to ask you if you know a salsa song, the name and/or the singer, that goes like this:
"Caminando estaba, por las calles de mi barrio, y lalala,... le tome de la mano y yo le dije... tu eres mi chica, la chica que yo conoci, y yo me enamore de ti, gracias a Dios que te has fijado en mi, lalala, tu eres mi chica", it's a salsa song, I know it's kinda old, but i hope maybe some of your readers may have more information about it, thank you ToSalsa.
Once again thanks a lot guys ... Cesar A Espinoza, Hallandale FL

I'm not sure, maybe it's Mi Chica by Isidro Infante and Elite 2. Check the link below to see if it's correct, I have no idea of the song, I just did a quick check cause the lyrics seemed familiar.

http://loki.stockton.edu/~colonh/latinweb/isidro.htm

Once again, I hope I helped any fellow music lover out there.
La Sonera, Adilia

This took me a while, but I guess part of it was to prove myself that I can sing the entire thing.

January 23, 2002 -- hi rose what a great site you have keep the good work. i play in a band we want to start playing some salsa songs, but we dont know the latest hits maybe you can help, also i am looking for the word of pedro navajas by ruben blades if you have it that will be great. thanks lorenzo

Pedro Navajas

Por la esquina del viejo barrio lo vi pasar
con el tumbao' que tienen los guapos al caminar,
las manos siempre en los bolsillos de su gabán
pa' que no sepan en cuál de ellas lleva el puñal.

Usa un sombrero de ala ancha de medio lao'
y zapatillas por si hay problemas salir volao',
lentes oscuros pa' que no sepan que está mirando
y un diente de oro que cuando rie se ve brillando.

Como a tres cuadras de aquella esquina una mujer
va recorriendo la acera entera por quinta vez,
y en un zaguán entra y se da un trago para olvidar
que el día está flojo y no hay clientes pa' trabajar.

Un carro pasa muy despacito por la avenida
no tiene marcas pero toos' saben ques' policia uhm.
Pedro Navaja las manos siempre dentro 'el gabán,
mira y sonríe y el diente de oro vuelve a brillar.

Mientras camina pasa la vista de esquina a esquina,
no se ve un alma está desierta toa' la avenida,
cuando de pronto esa mujer sale del zaguán,
y Pedro Navaja aprieta un puño dentro 'el gabán.

Mira pa' un lado mira pal' otro y no ve a nadie,
y a la carrera pero sin ruido cruza la calle,
y mientras tanto en la otra acera va esa mujer,
refunfuñando pues no hizo pesos con qué comer.

Mientras camina del viejo abrigo saca un revolver, esa mujer,
iba a guardarlo en su cartera pa' que no estorbe,
un trenta y ocho "esmithanhueson" del especial
que carga encima pa' que la libre de todo mal.

Y Pedro Navaja puñal en mano le fue pa' encima,
el diente de oro iba alumbrando toa' la avenida, ¡Guizo fácil!,
mientras reia el puñal le hundía sin compasión,
cuando de pronto sonó un disparo como un cañón,
y Pedro Navaja cayó en la acera mientras veía, a esa mujer,
que revolver en mano y de muerte herida a el le decía:
"Yo que pensaba 'hoy no es mi día estoy salá',
pero Pedro Navaja tu estás peor, no estas en na' "

Y créanme gente que aunque hubo ruido nadie salió,
no hubo curiosos, no hubo preguntas nadie lloró,
Sólo un borracho con los dos cuerpos se tropezó,
Cojió el revolver, el puñal, los pesos y se marchó,
Y tropezando se fue cantando desafinao'
El coro que aquí les traje y da el mensaje de mi canción.

"La vida te da sorpresas, sorpresas te da la vida" ¡Ay Dios!...
Pedro Navajas matón de esquina
quien a hierro mata, a hierro termina

La vida te da sorpresas, sorpresas te da la vida ¡Ay Dios!...
Valiente pescador, al anzuelo que tiraste,
en vez de una sardina, un tiburón enganchaste.

"I like to live in Americaaaa..."

La vida te da sorpresas, sorpresas te da la vida, ¡Ay Dios!...
Ocho millones de historias tiene la cuidad de Nueva York.

La vida te da sorpresas, sorpresas te da la vida, ¡Ay Dios!...
Como decía mi abuelita, el que de último rie, se rie mejor....

"I like to live in Americaaaa..."

La vida te da sorpresas, sorpresas te da la vida, ¡Ay Dios!...
Cuando lo manda el destino no lo cambia ni el más bravo
si nacistes pa' martillo del cielo te caen los clavos.

La vida te da sorpresas, sorpresas te da la vida, ¡Ay Dios!...
En barrio de guapos cuidao' en la acera, cuidao' camara'
el que no corre vuela.

La vida te da sorpresas, sorpresas te da la vida, ¡Ay Dios!...
Como en una novela de Kazka el borracho dobló por el callejón.

La vida te da....

"En la cuidad de Nueva York dos personas fueron encontradas muertas.
Esta madrugada los cuerpos sin vida de Pedro Barrios y Josefina Wilson
de dirección deconocida........."

La Sonera, Adilia

P.S I just hope this was the version Lorenzo desired.

October 24, 2002

Hello again Rose, I just had a couple of links to offer fellow Salsa lovers -- Adilia

Mona may visit the link below for more info on the band, Sol de Cuba, www.soldecuba.com.

Regarding Salsa in Brampton:
He/She can go to the link below wich offers a variety of information related to salsa music in Brampton.
http://search.yahoo.com/search?p=Salsa+in+Brampton+

October 24, 2002 -- Hey thanks for the list but...

Thank you for the lists, they are great but I figured I'd give you a few pointers if you don't mind. I am puertorican and lived in Bronx, N.Y. & Miami, Fl. for most of my life. I have die hard Puertorican parents and have grown up in a very diverse culture, and that has affected the music I listen too. I love to dance anything, but if you have done competitions I am sure you can kick my _ss in that dept. But anyway, I just want to give you a list of my personal favorites in the salsa genre -- DJ Sketch

1. Pochy Y Su Cocoband - Salsa Con Coco
2. Pochy Y Su Cocoband - El Gran Fieston
3. Familia RMM (Cheo Feliciano & Oscar DeLeon) - Soneros De Bailadores

This is just 3 of the ones I did not see on your list that make you "Mover El Esqueleto"...I hope you like them they are some of the favorites at the parties I DJ...alright. Thanks again, DJ SKeTCH

October 21, 2002 -- Sol de Cuba

Had the pleasure of listening to Sol de Cuba at Lula on Saturday. What an incredible band! Though I only know the names of Evaristo at lead vocals and Luis at piano, every one of the musicians was amazing and drove the whole crowd to their feet. It was great to see men and women alike getting down to the music (many of us were happy to dance alone and simply feel the music). With DJ Billy keeping up the energy during the band breaks, it was a great evening. I hope we will be hearing from Sol de Cuba again! Mona

there's a song that starts out with "dile a tu nuevo querer..." i can't remember the rest of the song and i don't even know the name of it or who sings it. i would really appreciate it if you could give me the name and/or artist of that song. thanks! Mag

Hello! I really don't know if you can help but I really hope you will. I was in Spain and there was one song, they called it "Azucar" and there were some salsa rythms I think. I can't find it anywhere. I remember just some words from chorus : a la izquierda, a la direcha, y los ojos, arriba, y el pecho....a-a-a-a-azucar. They said that it was the song of the summer 2000 or 2001. I'm not sure! Who knows...Pleeeeeeeeeeaseeeee!
I'll be soooooooooooo thankfull! I need the exact song-name and singer! Valerie

October 15, 2002
The song Valerie is looking for is a song called "Hechale Limon" by NG La Banda. We play that chorus regularly......Sonido Cubano

October 15, 2002 -- The Answer to Valerie's Question
This song happens to be one of my favorite songs that I used to play a lot two years ago! The name of the song as you mentioned is "Azucar", and the name of the artist is Eddy Mclean and it is the song no.8 on a compilation called "Salsa Cubana especial para rueda de casino" on the "IRMA" Records label. You might be able to find a copy at the HMV downtown store. Fab "Dj Salsero !

Hello, I am trying to find a recording of the Conjunto Universal song "La Bolia". I understand it is part of their self named album. Do you know if it is out on cd & if it is how I can purchase a copy? I appreciate any help you can give me! Thank you, Lourdes

Dear Lourdes, I have no idea... maybe one of our Salsa DJ's or Readers can help you... Rose

Hi rose, I was going thru your video gallery and I was wondering if you knew the name of the song and who was it by in the Descarga Latina-Cowboy Routine -- Marc

Dear Rod, the name of the song is "Merecumbe", but I'm not sure which version by which band. Rose

October 5, 2002 -- can you translate

can you translate the aventura obsesion lyrics into engish por me -- Brittany

Dear Brittany, I don't have enough knowledge or time to do it, but if I remember correctly, I think someone did email me the translation recently so hopefully it will get posted sometime soon. In the meantime, why not cut and paste the lyrics into a translator, such as Altavista. Rose

HI I NEED YOUR HELP I'M LOOKING FOR A CD BY CHEO FELICIANO
AND JIMMY SABATER. THIS CD IS " HOT " IT CAME OUT IN 1987.
I BEEN LOOKING FOR IT FOR ABOUT SEVEN YEARS, THE LABEL IS
FROM VAYA RECORS. SO IF YOU HAVE ANY IMFORMATION "PLEASE"
TELL ME, YOUR WEB SITE IS GREAT KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
YOUR NEW FRIEND NELSON GONZALEZ Y QUE VIVA LA SALSA.

Dear Nelson, thanks for writing in and maybe one of our many music readers or DJ's will be able to help you as I'm still learning about the music every day! I'm thrilled that many salsa music lovers are "tuning" into my site and willing to share information about what keeps our feet dancing! Good luck in your search, Rose

Congratulations to Celia on winning the grammy for 'Best Salsa Album' at the 3rd annual Latin Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, CA. The undisputed Queen of Salsa brought the crowd to its feet after a remarkable live performance of 'La Negra Tiene Tumbao'.

Muchas felicidades a Celia por ganar el grammy por 'Mejor Disco de Salsa' en la tercera ceremonia de los Grammys Latinos en Los Angeles, CA. La Reina de la Salsa trajo la muchedumbre a sus pies despuis de su desempeqo vivo notable de 'La Negra Tien Tumbao.'
Best Salsa Album!

Congratulations Celia! Azucar....

Congratulations are also in order to vocalist Ray Viera...He sang background vocals for Celia Cruz's Latin Grammy Award winning Salsa Album -- Ricky Olmo

Hi, We are a bunch of students in Dallas, Texas practicing Salsa for a function with the song "Whenever, Whereever" by Shakira...

I was wondering if you could suggest any other song with similar tempo and beat...it will be most useful to us. Thanks... KC

Dear KC, sorry that would be difficult for me to choose as it would depend on how you mix it in, your dance level (which would affect speed of song) and the theme, maybe some Readers might be able to suggest something for you. I would suggest going to a latin music store and listening to various salsa songs and see if anything inspires you. Rose

Hi, Polo Montaqez appears to be giving a concert in LA on October 18th - do you know whether he'll be playing elsewhere in North America?
Thanks! George

Dear George, unfortunately I'm not familiar with this artist, and when I did a quick check on google, I found his official website and a song that I like very much, Un Monton de Estrellas.

Dear Evelyne, unfortunately I don't have that particular album, but I recognized the group, so if I get a chance, maybe Ismael Otero of Caribbean Soul will let us know.

Ismael Otero writes: The first song was N-sync tribute to the beegees, the second was La Negra Tomasa by Vocal Sampling and the third was Mama Guela by Descarga Boricua.

I am very pleased with your Top 10. It is a great one.

I have discovered a remix (I think it is a remix) from Celia Cruz (maybe it
has been done by someone else though). Anyway, you gotta add it, it is quite good if you like a bit of ragga-salsa.

The song is called La negra tiene tumbao. BBye, Issa

Dear Issa, what a coincidence, I just found out that Celia Cruz has redesigned her website and guess what song is playing... you're right -- it's wonderful... check it out everyone... www.celiacruzonline.com. It's got some great information on Celia... And in keeping with the Celia Cruz theme, stay tuned as we will soon post up our draw for a free pair of tickets to her concert at Massey Hall on October 26th!

Lisa (aug. 19th) was right about that bachata song (corazon bachata by juan manuel). Just wanna write THANKS extra lots, and I don't know how u spotted it based on the information (or complete lack thereof) I provided. Thanks again, and Rose, I won't bug ya anymore for bachata songs since this is a salsa site and all ;), but thanks for the help! -sam

Dear Sam, you're most welcome, and although we are mainly a salsa site, we also recognize there's other styles of latin music and dance, so feel free to write anytime. After all, these questions can also help me and/or the readers to keep up-to-date on things we may not have time for, such as bachata -- which is apparently becoming a very popular music form. There was even an article in the New York Times recently about the growing bachata phenomenom. Rose

I was hoping you could have a list of great cha cha songs. The ones they played at the Courthouse were excellent but I don't know there names. I would greatly appreciate if you would put out a list. Thank you. Dom.

Dear Dom, actually I do have a collection of great cha cha songs I like to listen to and for those bachata fans, I've been working a little bit on that too, maybe sometime in the winter when things slow down a little unless we're lucky enough to have a Reader or a DJ who can submit a list? hint hint -- Rose

I que solo estoy , solo me queda la muerte , a que solo estoy solo me queda trista... solo , me siento solo.... but its salsa

it goes ta ta tara ta... tata ta tara ta ta ta, ta tara ta, ta tata ta ta ta
tara!!! I know you must be laughing at me right now, but i've asked around and no one knows. this is my last resort. if you dont know ....well.. about it :) oh and by the way I think those are the words ?!

Dear Reader, as I've told so many, if you hear it in the club, you gotta get to the DJ just after or before the song ends and ask, unless you're lucky to have a Reader who knows what the lyrics to this song belongs to... Rose

August 19, 2002

Hey Rose, I think the song the reader is looking for is "El Preso" by Fruko y Sus
Tesos. Thanks, Paul Chivers

Hi rose, just a quick question for ya; there's a bachata song by la banda bella called "sin ti" that's very popular here at the salsa clubs (found out about it at el rancho and DJ showed me the cover and told me its a toronto band) but I've searched for it everywhere and can't find it, even la banda bella's website does'nt mention it (only mentions their new album). I know the info. is correct cause the DJ showed it to me, do u have any idea how I can find this song? I've searched amazon.com and other music search engines but no luck, but I figure maybe cause it's a local band? Oh, and to answer that girl who wrote about a song called dos locos (aug. 7th), there's a famous bachata song called dos locos by monche y alexandra, not sure if that's the one?(there might be a dozen songs called dos locos or have those words in the title so a search might not yield what she's expecting). Thanks in advance and keep up the great work! -Sam

Dear Sam, why not go to HMV, Super Latin Music or Rincon Hispanso -- they can probably help you. Rose

hi rose, I love your site, and I know u're very busy but I hope can help me out. I've become very desperate looking for a particular bachata song; the chorus goes "whoa ooh ooh oh" and they keep repeating that for the chorus (and sing a bit in spanish, but that's the main part of the chorus) and the song is commonly played at salsa clubs. I know that's not much to go on, but I hope u can spot it from experience or memory? I've searched everywhere listening to samples of bachata hits but can't find it anywhere. Like I said, that's not the first time I heard this bachata song at salsa clubs and I've e-mailed all kinds of dj's asking 'em, and I've stopped kicking myself for not asking the actual dj playing it (too busy dancing!). Ciao and keep up the awesome work! -sam

Dear Sam, that's not much to go on for me or the readers and if that's what you're emailing the DJ's, it's no wonder you didn't get a reply. TIP: As soon as this song finishes, get off the dancefloor and run up to the DJ -- that's how I found out when I'm in the clubs. Rose

My name is Rob Thaller, I have a latin jazz band entitled Ritmo Azul, we are going to be having a CD release party promoted by JAZZ91.1 at Sax on Yonge on September 12th. You can hear clips of our music at www.ritmoazul.com
We played the Toronto Jazz Fest at Nathan Philips, as well as the Waterloo jazz fest.
We have been playing at Ontario place every thursday, with some of our latin jazz tunes, but adding some salsa tunes with the help of vocalist Eliana Cuevas (We were unfortunately billed as "ritno azula" due to a communication error that was caught too late to fix)

Thanks for your time, Rob Thaller - RITMO AZUL

can you try to get the lyrics to the group "aventura"....they are bachata/tropical. I am really desperate to know the words to their songs! help please! steph

Hi Rose, I am a 25-year old student from Germany. While researching for my master thesis I have just come across your page. Since you have compiled quite a bunch of salsa lyrics, it looks as if you are familiar with many songs.
My thesis paper will be about salsa lyrics and how they have changed as time went by, what type of topics/themes the songs deal with or used to deal with and what the recent topics of modern salsa are.
I am a salsaholic myself, but after a year in Spain I am only familiar with the regular music they play at salsa bars and clubs.
I would be lovely if you could give me any insights on that subject. Seems like I am only starting out, so I am thankful for any kind of information which could educate me. Thanks, I am looking forward to hearing from you, Bye Kendra

Dear Kendra, I'm flattered that you think I am very familiar with the lyrics, but I'm no expert and I utilize my spanish-speaking friends to help me understand what they are singing. Regarding the lyrics and how they change, the only thing I can suggest is that you compile a list of questions and I will gladly forward your questions to some knowledgeable musicians and/or music buffs I've made via the net and/or they will read your posting on this site and will be able to comment. When you finish this thesis, I will be most interested in reading it myself to further my knowledge of salsa music -- Rose

Hey Rose, I have to admit....this is my first time logging on to your site and it's really impressive. There is tons of info on the happenings in the Toronto area. But one thing that I've noticed (and being a musician myself), is that all the info pertains to Dance lessons, Dance instructors etc. but...but where are the bands?!?! I know you have a discussion board mentioning Quimica Perfecta (whom I play bass for!) but there is no mention of where bands like this and others are playing or any contact information whatsoever. Being a musician, I've noticed that mostly ALL club owners and promoters alike are real tight when it comes to money and bands. Maybe if you could contact one of these people and make them post an opinion as to why they feel that they should expect so much from us and give so little. Believe me, I know 90% of all the musicians that struggle in this scene and they all feel the same. These promoters don't give us a reason to rehearse and flaunt the talent that we DO have. There are musicians here that have reached goals and there is no mention on websites or newspapers "biggin" us up. For example: Nick "The Brownman" Ali (fantastic trumpet player) and his group "Cruzao" won the 2001 "Prix De Jazz" award for Canadian Jazz Group of the year. Not to mention that nobody knows about Alberto Alberto (lead singer for crticized Quimica Perfecta) who was once the lead singer for world renowned Cuban group "Irakere" here on T.O. land!!! Also, back in February of 2001, I was signed to a management deal with DLG's manager Adam Torres who also got me signed to Sony Latin Music for a production deal. There is also Dominicanada (Merengue band born in Toronto) who were nominated for a Juno award in 1996 or 1996. These are the same musicians that slave away making arrangements and orchestrating charts and rehearsing just to make a measly $70/musician while they play for almost three hours at times. So you see, Toronto HAS the talent that alot of people overlook and I think it's worth mentioning since all these goals were met with sweat, blood and tears. It somewhat feels dissapointing how people see us. I don't know what your outlook on this is Rose, but I just had to get it out of my system....

God Bless and keep up the good work... Ricky Franco

Dear Ricky, thanks for writing in and getting it out of your system, and sharing some information I already knew or didn't have. I guess I had sooo much information that you didn't notice all the band listings on the home page under "What's Happening" or the fact that when Nick Ali did win the 2001 "Prix De Jazz" award, I devoted a page to it in my Music section.

Why do we have so much information on dance lessons and dance instructors, because originally this website started out mainly to be a website on salsa dancing in Toronto -- which was my passion. We always wanted to have more information on the bands in Toronto, but we knew very little about the scene two years ago except for the bands that played at Berlin. Along the way, I started to get more involved with the latin music in Toronto (partially thanks to DJ Billy Bryans who introduced me to some of the live bands in Toronto), through connections made from TLN and the live bands at the various Salsa Congresses, and surfing the net and talking to DJ's and music promoters about the various styles of salsa music over the years. Since I started to go to some of the live band concerts and gotten to know various singers and musicians, I agree that Toronto is lucky to have such a talent pool of musicians. One of the best nights that I got to witness all the musicians was at the Grand Opening of Lula Lounge where Luisito Orbegoso had various musicians switching places and just jamming along with Ralph Irizarry from NYC -- that was one of my favourite nights to just appreciate the Toronto talent pool.

Also, over the past two years, most bands are not and still not very website-savvy, so when I do try to get information from them, it's like pulling teeth. Please remember this website is worked on in our spare time outside of our regular day-time jobs; and due to our 24/7 love of this music and dance, it seems there will never be enough time to do it all. If you could get the musicians to spend a little more time being a little more prompt in getting information to us (as some of the bands do on a regular basis), we would be more than happy to include it. Rose

Dear Sergio, I went to the site and I KNOW THE SONG, just don't know the artist or the name of it, but I've danced to it in the clubs. It sounds like a Sonora Carruseles song, but I don't have it, so maybe the Readers will be able to help out here! Rose

August 8, 2002 --
Hi Rose, Re: Salsa Song Search (August 7). The song is "Micaela" by Sonora Carruseles. Oliver.

August 8, 2002 -- Sonora Carruseles song
Rose and Sergio, The song you are looking for is track #3 off of Salsa Brava. Josh

Sergio, you can click to this page to hear this clip: Mosaico 5

Adalberto Alvarez - Somos Latinos
don't know this one, but I like Adalberto! Actually there are many songs on your list that I don't know. It seems like you're from another world (well Toronto is far...)
Charlie Palmieri - El Quinto de Beethoven
Charlie Palmieri - El Susto / Again: I like Charlie a lot, especially on organ, but not these
Eddie Palmieri - Colombia Te Canto -- great!

Eddie Palmieri - La Libertad
Eddie Palmieri - La Malanga
Eddie Palmieri - Malaguena Salerosa
Eddie Palmieri - Muneca / Yes! Most women don't like the text
Fania All Stars - Sandunguera / I prefer the original from Los Van Van
Hector Lavoe - El Cantante / Certainly in my top list
Hijos De La Salsa - El Negro Bombon / And what about the original? I believe it was ismael Rivera
Joe Cuba - El Pito / I never learnt to like El Pito
Johnny Pacheco - Anoranzas / Johnny Pacheco - El Esencia Del Guaguanco
A super classic!
Jose Alberto El Canario - Me Dejó Picao
Justo Betancourt - Lo Mio Es Mio
Justo Betancourt - Pa' Bravo Yo / Yes!
La Sonora Poncena - Fuego en el 23 / That is Arsenio Rodriguez. Do you know Arsenio Rodriguez?
La Sonora Poncena - La Pollera Colora
Larry Harlow - Arsenio / That is about Arsenio Rodriguez and a nice song again.
Oscar de Leon - Melao de Cana / This would be in my top 10. I also has a celia Cruz version. I like the live version of Oscar D'Leon in amsterdam.
Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca - Mambo Yoyo / Yo!
RMM - Soneros de Vailadores / Are you Japanese? Bailadores!
Yuri Buenaventura - Salsa
Yuri Buenaventura - Salsa Rai / That's Paris salsa, good!
Ciao! Pieter

Dear Pieter, thanks for sharing your viewpoints on salsa music. Basically, my taste in music is based on what I hear in the salsa clubs, and there is a huge Colombian and Ecuadorian population here in Toronto. We also have many Cubans, but they were only prominent in our scene in the past few years. Puerto Rican music, possibly because I've been to many salsa congresses in North America where there's a HUGE Puerto Rican population; and the most popular salsa styles that we dance are to the Colombian, Puerto Rican, and Nuyorican music. There are some Cuban bands that I've been exposed to recently as I've started to dig further into various styles of music, such as Vocal Sampling.

From what I understand about Europe in general, you had a more Cuban influence there, whereas our influence was mostly from Colombia originally. Anyways, thanks for sharing. Rose

PS My Top 100 list is based on the songs that I fell in love from dancing to it to in the clubs that just "hit the spot" on 1 and/or now on 2.

Can you please post Aventuras latest production. Appreciate, Vilma Castillo

August 5, 2002 -- correcccion

estaba viendo su pagina y note que la cancion devorame otra vez aparece como que Eddie Santiago es el cantante .... eso NO es correcto , el cantante de esa cancion es Lalo Rodriguez de la produccion de año 1987-90 u nuevo despertar... bye bye, Rebecca

I ve been searching for the lyrics to the song "Herida" by Brenda K. Star. I have not been able to and was wondering if you had them or know where to find it? thank you, Jess

Dear Jess, as I've mentioned previously, if we don't have this on our site and you can't find it through the search engines like Google or Yahoo, then you're out of luck unless one of our Readers sends in the lyrics for me to include on our site. Rose

Hey I wanted to know if you could fine the lyrics for Obescion de groupo aventura de bachata. Thankyou, Juan Felipe

Dear Juan, if we don't have this on our site and you can't find it through the search engines like Google, then you're out of luck unless one of the Readers sends in the lyrics for me to include on our site. Rose

Hi my name is Nicole and I seriously need help in findng lyrics to a particular song that no one seems to have. I'm pretty sure the name of the song is "A que saben tus besos" by Anthony Cruz.
If you would please help in my quest I'd really appreciate it.
I would like to dedicate and sing this song to to someone, and this song is perfect for us, being that we're friends and have never kissed!
PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you, Nicole

Dear Nicole, I did a quick check in the search engines and came up empty, maybe if you're lucky, one of our spanish readers might be able to help you. Rose

Rose, Do you know anyone offering a latin percussion workshop in TO anytime? Thanks, Josh

Dear Josh, these types of workshops aren't the norm just yet -- you might want to check with the organizers of Lula Lounge as many of the artists frequent that club, the latin festivals, such as Harbourfront, which had some latin percussion workshops recently, and periodically on my site when I'm lucky enough to be sent the information.

I downloaded one of those mixes and I love the first song in the mix but I don't know the title or the artist, I been trying to find the song but haven't been able to, maybe you can help.

I believe It is the first song in the "Ultimate Salsa Party CD - Salsa Mega mix track" I'been looking for the cd on a store but haven't been able to find it.

If it helps, the part of the song that comes in the mix says:

Yo quiero besar tu boca, lo anhelo con ansias locas,
deseo abrir tu alma y entrar en tu manantial de granas.
Tan suaves que son tus labios como plumas de un canario,
Tu piel es como la espuma que brota al rozar del aire que la toca.
Porque Dios te hizo tan bella, eres pura, eres una estrella
Te amo demasiado, te quiero a mi lado, púrpura de ¿? agua de mi vida...

If you know which song this is let me know. Thanks!!! Great site! Jorge

Dear Jorge, you'll be happy to hear that as soon as you wrote, I almost knew instantly what file you were talking about and that I probably knew what song you were looking for; and as I double-checked through my files -- I found it! Anhelo by Adolescentes Orquesta -- it was one of my most favourite groups to dance to when I started. Wish some questions were always this easy!

July 18, 2002 -- Mark Anthony

Yes, we all enjoyed to hear and see Mark Anthony. But lets understand that he was here to promote is album. A large group of us left disappointed due to a very short concert and lack of latin flavour, but those who have followed him from the beginning, this is the genre that started his career. He began singing english first and then crossed over to Latin, where he is at his best.......

I wanted to just clarify Mark's beginning....... Even thou I prefer his latin by far. For me, my 2 favourite concerts was the Docks here in Toronto and Madison Square Gardens years ago.

Happy to have any and all latin performers come to entertain us here in Toronto -- Martin Samuels

July 17, 2002 -- Concert Review?

Rose, you didn't tell us if you liked Issac Delgado concert. Where there a lot of people? How was the music? How was Issac Delgado and Haila Mompie? How was the dancing? Chincub

Hi Chincub, it's been a hectic few weeks and I've been so busy that I haven't had enough time to really reflect on that evening. Although I will tell you I did enjoy this concert and Haila Mompie was equally amazing. Many cubans were there and loved every minute of it, including singing and dancing along with the artists.

July 9, 2002 -- Tito Puente song

Rose, Pawel and Dora list "Flauta y Timbal" as one of their favourite Tito Puente songs in your top songs listing. I've found a live version of this song (Dancemania '99) but would like a studio version. Any idea what album it came from?

I think that Johnny Pacheco also has a version of this song and I would love to get my hands on it. I've done quite a bit of searching on the 'Net and can't find anything useful. Thanks, Josue

Hi Josue, I'll have to do a little surfing of my own when I get a chance. Rose

July 11, 2002

Hey Rose, If you go to http://archives.theconnection.org/archive/2001/01/0112b.shtml
you can find a funny audio interview with Dave Valentin (flutist for the
"Live At Birdland" show) where he talks about how "Flauta y Timbal" was a number that the group improvised for the show. I think that the version on the "Dancemania '99" CD is the only version ever recorded (try a search at Descarga.com)... Sincerely, Paul Chivers

July 12, 2002

Paul, Dave Valentin was improvising the flute part because Tito forgot the music. I'm pretty sure that a studio version exists. Thanks again! Josue

June 21, 2002 -- Is Lula Lounge Crazy?

How can the organizers of Lula lounge charge $45 before and $55 dollars at the door for the Issac Delgado concert ?? It's highway robbery. First of all, it is an unknown venue and Issac Delgado is less popular than Sonora Carruseles or Marc Anthony. But they charge more for tickets for his concert than Marc Anthony's or Sonora Carruseles'!! Is that information correct? If it is true I think they will have problems selling tickets, when you can see Issac Delgado for free in Montreal. -- Joekim

Response from Lula Lounge:

June 24, 2002

Hi thanks for the e-mail I appreciate and understand the criticism.

However there's a few things that must be taken into consideration, the
price of the ticket is not an arbitrary number thrown out to rob anyone.
First There's the artists fee and we're not just talking about Issac Delgado we're talking a 14 piece orchestra plus Haila Mompie. Then that number gets divided by your capacity, plus taxes, which are included in the price. We are not Harbourfront or the Montreal Jazz Fest, you will be able dance, go to the bathroom and get a drink and eat, with out standing and waiting on long lines or pushing through endless crowds. We are a beautiful, small intimate lounge, and what we're offering is a rare and unique treat to fans of Issac Delgado to be able to see him outside a huge concert stage and that experience is worth something.

Jose Ortega, Lula Lounge

Issac Delgado will play in a free outdoor concert in Montreal Jazz festival at 7:30pm, July 1. 2LF

Hi Rose, I just wanted to know if you knew who sings the song named "Lady". I hear it all the time and the clubs but don't know who sings it. Thanks and great site! Nikki

Dear Nikki, sigh... I guess you don't check my Top 10 Salsa Song Lists because you would have seen it listed there -- Orquesta la Palabra is the artist -- Rose

hey guys, just wanted to let you know that this years latinfest at wonderland will be on Sunday July 21, 2002, just wanted to let you know to put it up on your site! I tried emailing TLN as to whos performing, but they are very tight lipped about the event, they wont even give me a clue as to what the theme is.

hey can you guys try bringing better acts to toronto, like fulanito, monchy y alexandra, tulile, etc. it seems like its always the same people, thanks!, tiffany

Rose, I really miss seeing the updated Top Song lists from Billy, Fab, etc. Considering the great music Alvaro plays, it would be great to see a playlist from him too. Maybe you can bug him about this? I consider going to Latin Roots to be educational because he plays so many classic tracks. Thanks again! Josue

Dear Josue, I hear ya... every once inawhile I bug them, but you know how "artists" are... why don't you remind them the next time you seem them in the clubs... While I was at the Detroit Congress a couple of the Chicago DJ's promised to send me their own Top 10 List, but I'll probably have to email them to remind them -- Rose

Rose, do you know when Shakira, the Colombian song goddess, will
perform at MuchMusic? I heard it's next week. I love Shakira !! Do you have any details of the Issac Delgado concerts that will be happening in Toronto ? I hope you promote these these concerts as much you did with Riverdance, which is not Latin music. Heidy

ISSAC DELGADO IS COMING -- Just to ley everyone know. The best singer in Salsa now is coming to Toronto for 4 nights. The Visas have been approved and he will be here July 2-5, 4 Nights !! Ex-American president Carter's (He's in Cuba now) favourite song is Issac Delgado's La Sandunguita. And check out Delgado's version of the Eagles' Classic song Hotel California called El Solar de la California -- chincub

May 16, 2002

Yo i love your website . I think it is hott. I love dominican songs. I would love to tell this website if can they please put more bachata songs.

1 song dat i would like to tell you to put on the lyrics is anthony santos me quiero morir and el gringo muere de dolor .

100 % DoMiNiCaNiTa -- Olga

ahola i am from nicaragua i dont know how to spell that great in spanish... well i would like to know if there is any way you can send me the guitar tabs to mi todo by dominicanada.?? please i have been looking for them and i cant find them!! thank you... Saul

Dear Saul, I'm sorry but we can't help you... we aren't musicians, but dancers...

Hi Rose: You are always very good in figuring out titles of songs
or artisit's name. So here is one for you. I have been hearing it at Babaluu's lately. The chorus uses the phrase of "estoy conociendo ahora, estoy conociendo tanto..." Any ideas??? Emma

Dear Emma, you give me too much credit... usually it's the readers or friends who figure it out for me... the only time I can usually figure it out is if I already have heard, listened and/or danced to the song. So you're in luck, I forwarded your email to Freddy Paiz who quickly emailed me back that the song is one of my favourites, "Pena de Amor" by Puerto Rican Power. Music Tip: Next time you're in a club and are dancing to your favourite tune -- go up to the DJ and ask him for the name and artist of the song. That's how I first started to learn the music, before I started surfing the Internet.

hi Rose, i was wondering if you knew anything about DJ No-Capitalista or knew about any upcoming events where he was DJ-ing. !Los eventos suyos me parecen bien interesantes! Cariqos, and gracias por tu rebuena sitio! christine

Dear Christine, I don't know where he normal DJ's, but I do know that DJ No-Capitalista is always the DJ for any Palenke Orchetra events that happen usually at La Ceverjeria about once a month. Hope that helps, Rose

Do you know of a place that would list just the lyrics, so I can type in the few words I can make out? This is a hip-hop/salsa type thing. Thanks a lot! Michelle

Dear Michelle, here's some tips I picked up from the beautiful world of the internet... since most sites don't have a search engine, I suggest downloading the www.google.com toolbar and then do a search for spanish lyrics, then type in those "few words" you know in the google toolbar and "Search Site", not the "Search Web", and it will give you all the results from the actual website. I find that really handy to have on all my computers. If you also like to use the yahoo search engine, they also have a similar toolbar and a computer geek told me they use both on their browser -- Rose Knows