Aloha with a bit of que pasa!
Now that the holidays are over and 2013 is in full swing, its time for New Gen Salsa to get back in clave and keep you abreast of any new music and artists that are on the horizon.
I know that everyone has a song that they could relate to in their youth. A song, that reminds you of a particular person, place or thing. For me, growing up in New York City, besides Salsa it was soul music and ballads. I am sure that most of you have heard of the group The Delfonics and their mega hit “La La…Means I Love You!” Jose Guaman y Su Orquesta La Fuerza Gigante has released a remake of this classic. Rearranged by one of NYC finest Willie Ruiz this version swings and is a sure hit on the dance floor.
Lead singer Juan Luis Perez delivers and is backed by an A list group of singers and musicians mostly from the Bay Area.
However, this review has a backstory. The group’s leader, Jose A. Guaman was asked by his wife to do a remake of the song, as it was one of her favorites. Unfortunately, Jose passed away recently at a relatively young age but the song was done as she had requested. La La Means I Love You tells their story. RIP Jose, your labor of love will last forever.
Lead Vocals- Juan Luis Perez
Back Round Vocals- Willie Ruiz, Eddie Rosado, Yoko Mimata
Piano- Chiemi Nakai
Bass- Jose Tabares
Congas, Bongo, Timbal- Pablo “Chino” Nuñez
Trumpets- Richie Viruet
Trombones- Luis Bonilla
Bari Sax- Jorge Castro
Maracas, Guiro- Willie Ruiz
Music Produced and Arranged by-Willie Ruiz
This single is available on CD Baby and iTunes. Enjoy!
Ray Cruz
Pacific Rim Contributor for New Gen Salsa