Rumba & Rum

Afro-Cuban sacred beats for positive vibes. 

Spring is here, and sacred Afro-Cuban drum rhythms beat a new path, opening our road for what’s to come, as they hint at hot and sweaty nights ahead, dancing outdoors. Salutes to the Afro-Cuban saints, Gods of the earth, ocean and fire, give strength, with the ancient rhythms -- hands pounding skin -- that drive all of Cuban music. 

I’m sending out my own thanks and praises, and sending positive vibes for everyone with this mix of pure rumba rhythms and Afro-Cuban chants. (Click the album cover to listen.) Drink some rum, spill some for the Orishas, and get your spirit moving. Ashé.

Artists From Rubén Blades to Enrique Iglesias Voice Support for Venezuela   

Salsa greats and social activists Rubén Blades and Willie Colon have, separately, been the most outspoken of the many music artists who have expressed solidarity this week with protestors in Venezuela. In the case of Blades, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro spoke back.

Cuban Keys

This mix is a tribute my favorite Cuban piano men. They include Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chucho Valdes, Frank Emilio Flynn, Bola de Nieve, Harold Lopez Nussa, Michel Fragoso, Bebo Valdes, Arturo O'Farrill and more. So much feeling, rhythm, history and revolution in those keys.