La Opinión

Venezuelan artist Raul is all about his Mala Actitud

Impremedia — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 09:12:00 +0000

Venezuelan artist Raul “El Leon” is sad and nostalgic that he’ll be spending Christmas away from home this year. However, he couldn’t be any more blessed and ecstatic knowing that he’s doing it for a good and passionate cause, as he’s promoting his latest single “Mala Actitud” in the states. “It’s a wonderful single that we had the privilege to do with Nacho from Chino & Nacho,” he said to VOXXI. SEE ALSO: Tito El Bambino: Christmas in Puerto Rico is always a party The fresh track is the story of a tormented relationship. A topic which Raul said that many people can relate to. “We wanted to make it fun and the result was great,” he said of the official music video which has garnered over 87K views on YouTube. “Mala Actitud” (Bad Attitude) follows his first single called “50 Sombras” (50 Shades), a controversial tune he released inspired by the sultry book trilogy “Fifty Shades of Grey.” In the single, he counts with the help of his friend, colleague and countryman Miguel Ignacio Mendoza a.k.a. Nacho (Chino & Nacho). “He [Nacho] felt identified with my project,” Raul said of how the collaboration began. “We began writing one song and now we’re by the fourth one. My next single is a romantic merengue and it’s also in his hands.” Raul, who was born in Maracay, Venezuela, said 2015 will be an important year in his career. “I have a lot of faith in it and the sky is the limit,” he said. “I’m going to continue introducing my music to the world for people to know more of who ‘Raul’ is.” SEE ALSO: Oscarcito: Tumbaye is paving the way for me His forthcoming debut album “Bendecido,” is full of goodies, including different genres such as reggaeton, Dominican mambo, bachata and a salsa featuring renowned Venezuelan group Adolescentes. Raul “El Leon” hopes to have the album on the shelves by the mid-2015. “I’m preparing a lot of new things; from the bottom of my heart to all my fans.”

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Oscarcito: Tumbaye is paving the way for me

Impremedia — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 12:12:00 +0000

Oscarcito is in the holiday spirit with his latest jam “Llego la Navidad,” forming part of the Christmas album “Parranda All-Stars Navidad.” But the single that has really paved the way for him as a singer is the hot summer song “Tumbaye.” SEE ALSO: Tito El Bambino: Christmas in Puerto Rico is always a party The Venezuelan-born singer, who has debuted as a solo artist after years of composing music for other stars such as Victor Manuelle, said “Tumbaye” has received great feedback from his fans. “It’s extraordinary, a good feeling from the audience,” he told VOXXI. “‘Premios Juventud’ gave me the opportunity to open the show with my song. It’s quickly picking up steam in Latin America.” In the midst of his hit single, Oscarcito recalls a special tweet from iconic salsa singer Marc Anthony, which read: “I’ve just heard ‘Tumbaye’ from Oscarcito, and it’s becoming in one of my favorite songs of the summer.” And with a smashing summer record in hand, and new endeavors on the way, here’s everything the up coming sensation disclosed in our Q&A. Q&A with Oscarcito VOXXI (V): How did your musical career begin? Oscarcito (O): I’ve always been interested in music. In 1998 I belonged to a the group Punto Cinco and then El Escuadron. Now I’m navigating in this world as a soloist. I just finished signing with Sony Music and I’m grateful that they were interested in me. V: What’s the story behind “Tumbaye”? O: It’s a song that was conceived in Puerto Rico with the help of two important composers, including Gocho. I found the need to make a song that Latinos would enjoy. I wanted my song to have a little bit of me, of Venezuela and different influences from other parts of the world. V: Why “Oscarcito”? O: It’s the nickname that I’ve had since I was young. I was always the shortest one in my classroom. Also because I was born 10 years after my siblings. There’s a lot of famous Oscar’s in the world and this way it’s easy to distinguish my project. SEE ALSO: Maffio rises to the top with Quiero Otro Amor V: When can we expect your album? O: It’s already done, but we’re defining minor details. There’s a song with Belinda from Mexico, Maffio from Dominican Republic, Gocho from Puerto Rico and more. I’ve written for Victor Manuelle and other artists, so I’m full with work, not only as an artist but also a composer. V: What other artists would you like to compose for? O: For me it would be an honor to write songs for Ricardo Arjona, Juan Luis Guerra, Ricardo Montaner, who are also composers. For them to sing a song from another composer is a true challenge. V: What’s your biggest goal as an artist? O: I’m already achieving it, which is to one way or another enter the lives of many people with my music. I want them to relate to my songs. The best gift I can get is the interaction with my fans. SEE ALSO: Luis Enrique has a Christmas surprise in stock for his fans As of now, Oscarcito is putting the final touches to his forthcoming production. He also told VOXXI that there’s a big possibility that his next single will be a duo, but it’s yet to be revealed. If you’re in the Miami area, Oscarcito will deliver a special concert Thursday, December 18th with some of his friends, such as Maffio and more.

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Tito El Bambino: Christmas in Puerto Rico is always a party

Impremedia — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 20:12:00 +0000

With not one, but two Christmas songs out, Tito el Bambino is one singer to embrace the holiday spirit. His new album, which is almost entirely reggaeton, even includes a new Christmas salsa tune featuring Andy Montañez. Following his 2009 hit “Feliz Navidad,” “Hay Que Comer” is an energetic and merry single that the urban star includes in his latest album “Alta Jerarquia.” SEE ALSO: Rosario Dawsons Top Five Christmas traditions The song speaks about the Christmas season in Puerto Rico, which primarily follows the tradition of parties and lots of eating. Very much similar to how Tito will be spending the holiday this year. “I celebrate Christmas with my family and my children in Puerto Rico,” Tito el Bambino told VOXXI. “We get in the holiday mood since December first, it’s always a party –drinking, eating, coquito, ron del monte– a little bit of everything.” The 33-year-old singer, also known as “El Patron,” has a lot to celebrate this year, as he recently launched his sixth studio album called “Alta Jerarquia” (High Hierarchy). “This production is different. I based it around everything that’s happening on social media,” Tito stated, adding that he directly asked his fans what they wanted to hear and expected from the artist. “And from there, we began to create and produce the melodies in this production –it’s fun and danceable.” The album counts with 16 brand-spanking-new tracks, the majority of them tracing back to Tito’s reggaeton roots. He also counts with the collaboration of colleagues and friends such as Chencho from Plan B, Nicky Jam, Zion & Lenox, Alexis & Fido and Vico C, among other. “It’s a complete album with the high hierarchy of the urban music world,” he said proudly. Out of the 16 singles, which include a bachata with Antony Santos and a salsa with Andy Montañez, Tito said the one he can relate to the most is “Controlando.” “I personally live it. The song talks about not having to be a thug to run the streets,” he said of the track that’s upbeat but has an empowering message. “Luxuries are nice and all, but the most important thing is to earn them the honest way.” Following the smash hit “A Que No Te Atreves” with Plan B’s Chencho, Tito el Bambimo is currently promoting his second single “Adicto a tus Redes” featuring Nicky Jam. SEE ALSO: Urban artist Nova kicks it off as solo artist, talks new projects The new year holds many surprises in stock for fans, including a tour. “We’ll be touring everywhere in Latin America, Europe and the U.S. In January, we will embark on a tour for many countries in the world.”

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Urban artist Nova kicks it off as solo artist, talks new projects

Impremedia — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 17:12:00 +0000

After nearly a decade of forming part of the Puerto Rican urban duo Nova & Jory, artist Nova “La Amenza” has split from his colleague to kick it off as a solo artist. With nearly 20 years in the biz, he’s thrilled to present his new project to the world. “I began my career in 1996, then got together with Jory in 2003 and we became a worldwide hit in 2009. I became a solo artist in 2013,” Nova told VOXXI. SEE ALSO: Angel y Khriz are back in the game with Wepa The 34-year-old has two new singles making the rounds and a forthcoming solo debut album called “El Subestimado” (The Underrated) that promises to make 2015 one of the best years of his career. As he chit-chatted with us to let us know of his new projects, he also took the time to talk about Christmas, the jolly holiday that’s just around the corner. “I always spend the holidays with my family,” he said, stating that he’ll celebrate Xmas in his hometown of Puerto Rico. “I’m a homebody and the best experiences are the ones I share with my loved ones.” While promoting his latest single “Velas & Rosas” (Candles and Roses), here’s everything Nova told us. Q&A with Nova “La Amenaza” VOXXI (V): Let’s talk about your newest single “Velas & Rosas.” NOVA (N): It’s a song that has been accepted by the public and has been enjoyed by many listeners. I personally like it because it’s a danceable song and very sensual. It’s a nice song to dedicate to your significant other. V: When will we have a music video for this track? N: We’re already making plans to start filming a video for “Velas y Rosas.” Hopefully we’ll have it done in the next couple of weeks and we can share it on YouTube and social media. V: For many years you formed part of “Nova y Jory,” what will you offer your fans as a solo artist? N: I have an audience that has heard me and has accepted me as a solo artist. There’s a lot of new and big things on the way. There’s a different sound than that which people are used to from me. V: What can we expect in your solo debut album “El Subestimado”? N: We’re currently working on the album, which will project a lot of big things. Although my first single “Amiga” is with Ken-Y, I have another song with him in this album. I’ve also invited J. Alvarez, Farruko, Ñengo Flow…I have a lot of my brothers who’ve grown with me in the genre. I’m working on it with strict producers and putting my heart into it. When things are done with the heart, the outcome is good. SEE ALSO: Farruko: Its time for a new generation of reggaeton V: Why did you decide to title it “El Subestimado” (The Unerrated)? N: I chose that name because I received a lot of criticism when I was in the duo “Nova y Jory.” A lot of people thought I wasn’t going to continue and just quit. On the other hand, I want to demonstrate the world that as a solo artist I can reach many of my goals, that’s why I named it “El Subestimado.” Nova “La Amenza’s” solo album “El Subestimado” is expected to hit the road summer of next year.

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Palo! goes for GRAMMY glory

Impremedia — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 18:12:00 +0000

Palo! goes for its second shot with the academy. First, their album Palo! Live was nominated to the Latin GRAMMYs for Best Contemporary Tropical Album and now they are nominated for Best Tropical Latin Album GRAMMY. The band from Miami, which describe their sound as Afro-Cuban Funk, mixes rhythms like Son, Guaracha and Timba with the Funk of the 60s and 70s plus a Jazzy touch. They also bake ingredients like Rumba, Guaganco and Palo Mayombe to create a collage that dares your feet not to move. The bands success and popularity has been in a rapid rise during the last few years, skyrocketing in 2014 after 11 years playing. They have appeared in most local TV stations and gained respect among musicians and dancers in the 305 area. SEE ALSO: Palo! getting the party started with their new single Lengua Larga To all this hectic ascension, the bands director Steve Roitstein answered. VOXXI (V): How do you feel with this nomination following the Latin one? Steve Roitstein (SR): We feel amazing. When Palo! was nominated for the Latin Grammy this year, we were blown away. Since then, its been kind of a whirlwind of media interviews and performance opportunities. The Grammys, or El Grammy Americano as they say in Miami, is probably the most known music brand on earth. Being nominated for a 2015 Grammy is a huge honor for us. It kind of feels like a dream. V: Why do you think the fusion of Palo! was appealing to the American Grammy Academy? SR: At the Latin Grammys, we received great feedback from members like your sound is so fresh or Palo! gives the tropical music scene new life. And people were impressed by the live performance that was captured in the recording. V: What do you think is going to happen to Palo! in the American music market after this? What are your expectations? SEE ALSO: Latino artists nominated at the 2015 GRAMMY Awards SR: We dont know. A nomination or award wont change our music or the creative path that were on. Most of our music is in Spanish, and people seem to like us the way we are, whether they speak the language or not. It would be great if we could reach more people who dig what we do regardless of their language or culture. V: Any plans internationally? SR: Thankfully, our team has been getting inquiries from Latin America, Europe, and elsewhere about possible tours. Palo! has a growing international tribe of fans that keep asking us to come to visit their city. Nothing would make us happier than to be able to go and play for them. V: In your opinion, what makes Palo!s music so special? SR: Our music has a unique sound. But, the comments I hear most are that people love our songs stories and hooks. But most often, folks tell me that Leslie Cartaya, Ed calle, Raymar Olalde and Philbert Armenteros are amazing musicians. I totally agree. The multigenerational aspect of Palo! fans is amazing. We know families where three or four generatyions dig us. Palo! shares this nomination with Aymee Nuviola, El Grand Combo de Puerto Rico, Totó La Momposina, and Carlos Vives. SEE ALSO: 2015 Grammy nominations are in: Who will be the big winner? They already have plans to celebrate if they win on February 8, 2015. Well party all night in Los Angeles! Im sure that cigars and dominos will be involved, said Roitstein. The nominaitons are a very nice industry recognition for all of our hard work and perseverance, he said.

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Rosario Dawsons Top Five Christmas traditions

Impremedia — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 20:12:00 +0000

Christmas is sneaking up on everyone, especially Rosario Dawson, who is eagerly waiting for the the festive day to sit back, relax, play video games and bring out abuelita’s Christmas tree. While promoting her latest film “Top Five” starring Chris Rock, the Puerto Rican actress opened up to VOXXI about her top five Christmas traditions. SEE ALSO: Top 5 Colombian traditions during the Christmas season “Eating pernil (Puerto Rican pork roast) and fighting over the pork rinds. The pegao’ which is the Puerto Rican popcorn –the rice at the bottom of the pan,” Dawson stated about her favorite holiday dish. “Just being with family and opening crazy presents. I just know people don’t get me presents…they just know I like bubble wraps,” she continued. Another one of Dawson’s favorite traditions is taking the time off to “veg out” in video games. The Latina starlet says the holidays are the perfect time to reflect and share stories with her loved ones. This year, she and her family have a new tradition in stock. “We’re gonna bring out my grandma’s tree which I grew up with since I was very little. Since she’s passed, we haven’t really used any of that stuff and this is gonna be year,” she said. But before the countdown to Christmas begins, Dawson is presenting her latest film with comedian and actor Chris Rock called “Top Five.” In the film she plays Chelsea Brown, a witty and passionate reporter who’s assigned to write a story about Chris Rock’s character. “She’s an awesome New Yorker! A true bonafide, super cool, modern day woman. Stylish, multi talented and quintessential New Yorker,” Dawson said of her character. Written and directed by Chris Rock, “Top Five” is the movie to watch this holiday season. In the words of Dawson, it’s an “incredible drama with a lot of jokes.” This is how our conversation went in a nutshell: Top Five Best Things about “Chelsea Brown” Wit Passion Honesty Dedication Quintessential New Yorker Top Five Favorite Latino Artists Zoe Saldana Diego Luna Dolores Huerta Gabriel Garcia Marquez John Leguizamo Top Five Best Christmas Traditions Eating perni and pegao’ rice Being with family Opening crazy presents Play video games Time off to reflect Top Five Reasons to Watch “Top Five” Drama/Comedy Music by Quest Love Chris Rock Hot Sauce and Hangers The Cast “Top Five” hits theaters nationwide on December 12th. SEE ALSO: John Leguizamo on his first time working with Keanu Reeves

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Luis Fonsi steps out of his comfort zone for new album

Impremedia — Mon, 08 Dec 2014 19:12:00 +0000

By John Benson Fresh off his sold-out Somos Uno Tour through South America, internationally renowned singer Luis Fonsi is now busy appearing as a judge on Telemundos prime-time reality show Yo Soy El Artista. Its been great fun, I really enjoy it, Fonsi told VOXXI. I dont see it as a job. Im a vocal performance major, so to me I sort of love that vocal lesson and arranging side of music, as well as being the head vocal coach of the show.” SEE ALSO: Gaby Moreno embraces the holiday spirit with new Xmas album A lot of them are just really starting out, and you can still hear that purity and that young sounding tone that to me is fun to be able to mold. Its a new format for TV. I think people are getting used to it. Hopefully Ill be able to do different shows like this in the near future. Known for Latin GRAMMY-winning song Aqui Estoy Yo, as well as hits No Me Doy Por Vencido, Abrazar La Vida, Gritar and Respira, the Voice of Pop is currently supporting his latest album 8, which was produced by Swedish singer-songwriter and producer Martin Terefe (Jason Mraz, James Blunt, KT Tunstall, Mary J. Blige, James Morrison). The project took Fonsi, who in 2011 was named Leader of Latin Music’s Generation by Billboard Magazine, out of his comfort zone with unique results. Apparently Luis Fonsi knew what he was doing with 8 debuting at No. 1 in nine countries, including the U.S. The lead single, Corazón En La Maleta, has more of a gritty, up-tempo feel that belies his power-ballad pigeonholing. Then theres Llegaste Tú, a duet with Juan Luis Guerra that was nominated for a Latin Grammy 2014 in the Record of the Year category. I was definitely reaching on this album for something different within the parameters of who I am and what I am as a musician, Fonsi said. I sort of have my niche, a mixture between pop and ballad with a little bit of the rock sound. But what I did do different was I sort of changed the team I worked with. For this album I said, Im going to go to London.’ That was kind of refreshing to go in there and work with a bunch of guys, all of them European, who didnt know who I was.” They hadnt worked on Spanish albums a lot. That was kind of fun, to have a clean slate and to be able to do music without really thinking about what Ive done in the past, whether its worked or not. Thats something Ive never done before. After the successful first leg of the Somos Uno Tour, Fonsi said hes excited about February dates booked in Puerto Rico with a stateside jaunt expected this spring. Something else on his to-do list is a return to Broadway. In the summer 2013, he appeared in Forever Tango. I love musical theater, Fonsi said. It might not be next year or the next five years but I definitely want to do another run on Broadway. If theres one hurdle that remains for Fonsi its entering the stateside mainstream pop world. The singer is well aware the opportunity awaits but he isnt in any rush to dip his toe into the deep waters. SEE ALSO: Backstage Confessions: Olga Tañon, David Bisbal and more fess up! Its one of those things I havent had that last push to say Im going to write an English song, Fonsi said. I listen to pop radio, mainstream radio, in English but from a singer-songwriter point, its not something I do everyday as a singer. When I grab a guitar, for some reason I switch to Spanish mode.” A lot of people ask if Im going to do the crossover, and I just say its a door Ill never close but right now Im so focused on whats going on in the Latin market. But you never know, its one of those things. Im one of those guys that all of a sudden Ill just go for it. It would be amazing, obviously.

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Sofia Reyes leaps from YouTube to pop stardom

Impremedia — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 18:10:00 +0000

After a sitting down for 15 minutes with up-and-coming star Sofia Reyes, we discovered an energetic and bubbly person with a pocket full of talent…

Erik Rivera is the new Latino in stand-up comedy

Impremedia — Thu, 30 Oct 2014 09:10:00 +0000

Achieving one goal after another is how comedian Erik Rivera looks at his recent success. The next bucket-list item is his first stand-up special, Erik…

Farruko: Its time for a new generation of reggaeton

Impremedia — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 17:10:00 +0000

Not only is Farruko celebrating this new album debuting at No. 1 in iTunes this week, but he’s also telling the pioneers of reggaeton music…

Maite Perroni cuts hair to raise breast cancer awareness

Impremedia — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 09:10:00 +0000

When Maite Perroni is not filming a new music video or talking about her clothing line, she spends her time by raising awareness for those…

Teach For America: Latino education needs to happen now

Impremedia — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 17:10:00 +0000

Teach For America (TFA) ended Hispanic Heritage month last week with an impressive Teach Orgullo. Create Oportunidad Google+ Hangout to discuss not only the importance…

Fritanga: An exclusive taste of Nicaraguan food

Impremedia — Tue, 14 Oct 2014 18:10:00 +0000

Nothing calls for a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration like a good plate of Latin food –especially when it’s abuelita’s cooking (but that’s whole different story).…

Maffio rises to the top with Quiero Otro Amor

Impremedia — Sun, 31 Aug 2014 17:08:00 +0000

Maffio’s plate is full with countless artists wanting to collaborate with him. He recently worked on Chino y Nacho’s fiesta track “Tu Me Quemas,” and…

Calle 13 presents its new album Multi_Viral

Eduardo Stanley — Fri, 11 Jul 2014 08:07:00 +0000

Finally, the latest Calle 13 album, Multi_Viral, is out. And the band is touring the Americas and Europe promoting it. As with similar occasions, expectations…

Jose Azel discusses Cubas transition; life after the Castro brothers

Impremedia — Wed, 02 Jul 2014 18:07:00 +0000

VOXXI correspondent Diego Rosette sat down with Cuban exile scholar, Jose Azel currently a senior scholar at the Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies at…

Polémica persigue a ‘Gangster Squad’ (Video)

Impremedia — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 15:01:04 +0000

'Gangster Squad' tuvo que cambiar su final tras la matanza de Aurora.

La Opinión

Venezuelan artist Raul is all about his Mala Actitud

Oscarcito: Tumbaye is paving the way for me

Tito El Bambino: Christmas in Puerto Rico is always a party