Ep. 130

I often talk about Chilean revolutionary song here on the podcast. Its close to my heart, not because of any personal connection to that beautiful country whatsoever, but because their history, music and culture is deep in my heart and I have deep admiration for the struggles, successes and achievements. I often talk about nueva cancion and its suppression under Pinochet as well, but what happened in Chile was not unique. The US history of interventionism is long and continues to grow longer even in this present moment. The history of fascism attempting to destroy art and culture is also long. These dictatorships understand that music and art holds an immense power of communication. Many of these dictatorships began actually suppressing their own cultures and traditional music and art. In Chile, we have perhaps the most severe case of artistic suppression, the murder of Víctor Jara as well as his records and many others being banned, Pablo Neruda’s books were burned and it was illegal to sing revolutionary songs. In Spain Franco officially banned Catalan and other languages from school and public spaces.

Revolutionary artists suffered exile simply for singing about the reality of their people, yet they became part of the strong international community that not only brought attention to the atrocities being committed, but also played a role in ending those dictatorships with their tireless work and denouncements of their atrocities.

Today we will be celebrating what many would call “protest music”, however I, like Víctor Jara, prefer the term “revolutionary song”, from around the world. All of these artists faced various consequences for their activism and We need this inspiration right now, we actually need more revolutionary song after all, no hay revolucion sin canciones, so at this time let us take inspiration from these courageous and talented artists, starting of course in Chile. But who start with, Chile has such a rich diversity of Nueva Cancion, of course we start with Víctor Jara, a man who paid the ultimate price for simply singing the truth. We start in Chile especially seeing as this is the month of memory in Chile, a commemoration, a celebration of memory and a vigil to all those whose lives were taken.

Victor Jara — Manifiesto

Isabel Parra — En Septiembre Canta el Gallo

Quilapayún — Mi Patria

Illapu — Nuestro Mensaje

Los Jaivas — Un Mar de Gente

Manuel Garcia — El Viejo Comunista (live)

Atahualpa Yupanqui — Camino del Indio

Víctor Heredia — Sobreviviendo

Mercedes Sosa — Gracias a la Vida

Daniel Viglietti — Declaración de amor a Nicaragua/Con Nicaragua [with Benedetti]

Ramon Pelegero Sanchis (Raimon) — Diguem No

Phil Ochs — Santo Domingo (the marines have landed on the shores of)

[note]

Andres Jimenez — Libertad y Soberania

El Hormiguero — Calle 13

Silvio Rodriguez — La Maza

Pablo Milanés — canción por la la unidad latinoamericano

Carlos Puebla — Y en eso llego Fidel

Quilapayún, Inti Illimani - El Pueblo Unido Jamás Será Vencido

If you know who Salvador Allende is and I mention his last speech, made while the military bombarded the presidential palace, the line about Las anchas alamedas opening again may come to mind. It is arguably the best know part of the historic, deeply heart rendering and heart breaking speech. More than simply telling his nation what is happening and who is responsible, Allende reaffirms his commitment to the oath he swore to keep, the promises he made to his people and the work and progress he did achieve. He goes further, before the coup is even successful he foresees and heralds its end. He proclaims that the grand avenues will open once again. He gives thanks to all those who believed in him, who trusted him with the great responsibility to not only lead the country but keep his promises and undertake the great tasks that he dreamed would improve the lives of the masses.

Allende calls upon the downfall of the individuals involved, invoking their destruction before they are even able to wrest power from the legitimate government.

He does not cower, there is no fear in his voice. He speaks clearly, he never falters or stammers even as the presidential palace is bombarded around him. He looks at his fate without fear, knowing that this will all end with the sacrifice of his life and he implores his people to not sacrifice themselves. He leaves it unsaid in this moment, but it is clear he, in this moment an almost christ-like figure, intends to sacrifice himself for the sake of his people.

Perhaps we can see this as simply a trust in the laws of life and time, after all, no empire and no tyranny can continue forever, Allende certainly knew this.

Salvador Allende would be dead by that afternoon, he knew this as he spoke. It was clearly never a doubt in his mind, so with dignity, courage and a righteousness than can only come from a life spent truly working for the good of the people, stares at death and faces it directly. There is no need for him to hide from it because he knows that what he has done with his human life has been for the good of humanity, from his work as a medical doctor to the leaps and bounds in the improvement of the conditions of the chilean people, he worked for humanity not for its destruction.

Songs:

Allende Presidente - Ángel Parra

Compañero Presidente - Ángel Parra

Allende - Quilapayún

Allende/Por Todo Chile - Viglietti/Benedetti

Encuentro con la vida - Illapu

Las Ultimas Palabras - Ventiscka

I had a full circle moment recently. It was about this time last year, a cloudy day, drizzling.  I was wearing a wool sweater too, not the same one, but similar. I was moody and sad, both days. Last year, that day, I first listened to “Manifesto”, Victor Jara and I will say again, it changed my life. This past year has changed me as a person, and that moment when I first heard that beautiful voice and that guitar, I could feel the change. It was a song that I felt I had heard my entire life, yet a song I had never heard before. 

This year, I finally after having known about him for months, actually I first heard listened to Phil Ochs for the first time. And I had a similar reaction to “I ain’t marching no more”. I was struck by more than Ochs’ voice or the lyrics of the song, I was struck by poignant, relevant and sincere his music was. As I listened to more of his music, I was amazed at just how applicable they are to everything happening now, from US militarism, foreign policy, racism, western liberalism and revolution, all things Ochs sang about. I knew it was significant for me to come upon Ochs’ music at the time I did. I almost regretted that I hadn’t found his music just a tiny bit sooner, so I could have played his “Love me, I’m a liberal” on my recent show about Western liberalism.Today we will talk about Phil Ochs, his music, how it so perfectly talks about what is happening today and much more.

Songs:

What’s That I Hear 

Spanish lament 

Remember me 

Talking Vietnam blues 

Talking Cuban crisis

Too many martyrs

The thresher

I ain’t marching anymore 

Draft dodger rag 

Talking Birmingham Jam 

Here’s to the state of Mississippi 

There but for fortune 

I’m going to say it now 

Ringing of revolution 

Santo Domingo

Love me. Im a liberal 

Canons of Christianity. 

The war is over

Changes 

When I’m Gone 

Ray Barretto was born on April 29 1929 in El Barrio, New York. His childhood wasn't an easy one, as his father left the family when Barretto was just 4 years old and returned to Puerto Rico. Barretto's mother moved the family to the Bronx and struggled as a single mother to raise Ray and his 2 siblings, yet she was still able to instill a love of music in Ray. From a young age Ray showed an interest in percussion, banging on pots and pans. In 1946, at the age of 17, he joined the Army and while stationed in Germany heard the seminal song, 'Manteca'. Ray knew he wanted to be a musician. Upon his return he joined jam session and perfected his sound. He soon found work with José Curbelo. Soon after, Ray joined the Tito Puente Orchestra at the recommendation of Santos Colon (former singer for Jose Curbelo). After four years with the Puente Orchestra, he became a house musician for Prestige, Blue Note and Riverside labels. Barretto started his band, Charanga La Moderna in 1962 and had his first big hit, 'El Watusi'. In 1967, Ray joins the Fania roster and becomes part of the Fania All Stars upon their founding. After success with his Salsa albums, Ray decided to record a Latin Jazz album in 1972, however, unfortunately it was not well received. The following years were filled with turbulence in Barretto's life as 5 members of his orchestra left the band form Tipica 73. Just two years later, Ray was in a car accident and could not play for several years. Despite these hardships, Ray came back better than ever with an album titled, 'Rican-Struction'. In the early 90's Ray again decides to pursue "the other road" again and forms 'Ray Barretto & New World Spirit'. This time he enjoyed great success his Latin Jazz ventures. Ray joined the ancestors on February 17, 2006, at the age of 76. He has left an immense legacy and impact. Hear about all this and more in this week's celebration of Ray Barretto on what would have been his 93rd birthday.  Follow me @voiceofthewaterlily  Leave a comment and let me know what you think!  Aurora Flores' interview with Ray Barretto Songs Ancestral Messages Hot Hands 1993 The Other Road The Other Road 1972 The Lucretia the Cat The Other Road 1972 Bomba-Riquen Hot Hands 1993 Autumn Leaves my summertime 1995 New World Spirit Hot Hands 1993 The Summer Knows Contact! 1998 Time Was-Time Is Time Was-Time Is 2005 Triangle Handprints 1991 Cancion Pa’l Yunque Hot Hands 1993 Beautiful Love Hot Hands 1993 On a Sunday Afternoon Hot Hands 1993

Rumba; the Afro-Cuban style has a long history, arising from slavery, facing marginalization and eventually traveling the world. This show is a brief history of the style intertwined with the music of some of the greatest rumberos. Enjoy! AFRICA - The Rumba All Stars  Recuerdo a Matanzas - Los Papines  Baila mi Yambu - Los Papines  La Prueba del Ritmo - Clave y Guaguanco Ingrato Corazon - Patato y Totico Nuestro Barrio - Patato y Totico La Rumba Es - Los Muñequitos de Matanzas  Ta' Julian - Los Muñequitos de Matanzas  Blues Guaguanco - Arturo O' Farril  Ya yo me cure - Jerry Gonzalez  Columbia para los guerreros - Eddie Bobé Yambu - Mongo Santamaria 

Celebrating the life and work of Cheo Feliciano for the 8th anniversary of his passing! You will hear about how Cheo got his start as a singer, his years with Joe Cuba, struggle with addiction, comeback in 1971 with his first solo album, ‘Cheo’ and much more. Listen to the story of this amazing artist and his phenomenal music.  https://voiceofthelily.water.blog/2019/05/09/remembering-the-inolvidable-y-irrepetible-cheo-feliciano/ Que Va feat. Joe Cuba Sextet 1963 Dichoso feat. Joe Cuba Sextet 1965 Callejero feat. Joe Cuba Sextet 1963  Esto es Guaguanco 1971 Si Por Mi Llueve 1971 Anacaona (live) 1985 Nacha 1976 Amada Mia 1980 Trizas 1982 Los Entierros 1979 Mirada de Amor 1974  Hay que mentir 1972 Es muy facil 1976 Que si cantaban bien 1999 Romantico  El Ciego  Por Nuestra Felicidad  Me Fascina esa Mujer  Te van a decir 2002 Hacerte Venir  Coincidencia 

 [Español abajo] Today's show celebrates Celina y Reutilio. Unfortunately the husband and wife duo did not achieve as much recognition as they should have after the response to the 1959 Revolution forbad anything and everything Cuban from the US. We will be exploring how they combined Musica Campesina with the music of Santeria, as well as learning about their lives and enjoying their phenomenal music. El show de hoy celebra a Celina y Reutilio. Desafortunadamente, el dúo de marido y mujer no logró tanto reconocimiento como debería después de que la respuesta a la Revolución de 1959 prohibiera todo lo cubano en los Estados Unidos. Exploraremos cómo combinaron la música campesina con la música de la santería, además de aprender sobre sus vidas y disfrutar de su música fenomenal. Que Viva Chango Tumba La Cana Agua Pa' Mi Hijo de Elegua Una Fiesta con Ochun Papa Boco Canto A Borinquen Pedacito de mi vida La Casa de Yagua Me Tenian Amarrao con P. Ta' Cinio Alborada Guajira Flores para tu altar

"Remember that our music is the most exciting and complex, and it puts you to dance, not to sleep!", Mr. Palmieri declared! Last week I had the greatest honor of meeting the incredible Maestro, musical genius and cultural icon, Eddie Palmieri, ahead of his performance at Keystone Korner. Words cannot describe how incredibly honored I was to have the privilege of meeting him. Not only did he share so many precious stories and memories, Mr. Palmieri spoke of how Aristotle influenced his work, the importance of socially conscious music and his studies with Bob Bianco. More than anything, I was truly honored by his kind words of encouragement. This was a truly unforgettable experience for me! Listen to this incredible conversation with a true musical genius! 

Special words of thanks to Aurora Flores and Eddie Palmieri II for making this happen! 

• Mi Congo Te Llama Medley Lucumi Macumba Voodoo 1978
• Yo Soy Mulato Mi Luz Mayor 2018
• Colombia Te Canto Lucumi Macumba Voodoo 1978
• Justicia Justicia 1969
• Idle Hands Harlem River Drive 
• Mi Mambo Conga (Mozambique) Mambo con Conga is Mozambique 1964

Today, we celebrate women in Latin Music; the stars, the trailblazers and the unheralded gems. Enjoy listening to Paulina Alvarez, Celia Cruz and Xiomara Alfaro as well as Aurora Flores and Zon del Barrio, Victoria Sanabria, Libertad LaMarque and so, so many others. Enjoy! 

• Serenata Jibara — Rafael Hernandez y su Cuarteto Victoria 
• Isora Club — Cachao (comp. Juana Coralia Lopez)
• El Panquelero — Paulina Alvarez 
• Babalu — Toña La Negra 
• El Dia Que Me Quieras — Libertad LaMarque
• Que Sabes Tú — Myrta Silva 
• Mienteme — Olga Guillot 
• Siboney — Xiomara Alfaro 
• San Lazaro — Celina y Reutilio 
• Hija de Algallu — Linda Leida 
•  Gracia Divina — Celia Cruz 
• Guaguanco Bembe — La Lupe 
• La Vida Es Un Sueno — Graciela with Mario Bauza 
• Raza Pura — Lucecita Benitez 
• Tata Candela — Canelita Medina
• La Guaracherna — Milly, Jocelyn y Los Vecinos 
• Con Un Solo Pie — Fe Cortijo with Rafael Cortijo
• Borinquen — Yolando Rivera with La Sonora Ponceana 
• Yemaya y Ochun — La India with Eddie Palmieri
• Yo No Me Voy — Victoria Sanabria 
• Como La Flor — Selena 
• Cortijo Su Apellido — Aurora Flores and Zon del Barrio. 
• La Voz De Experencia — Celia Cruz and La India 

Today’s show is honor of the phenomenally talented Cuban vocalist known as ‘El Guapachoso’, Rolando LaSerie. He worked with the likes of Benny Moré, Tito Puente, Cachao and Johnny Pacheco, yet he did not receive recognition of popularity. Listen to his incredible music and hear about his life. 

• 
  
• La Palabra Fin (with Johnny Pacheco)
• Mentiras Tuyas 
• Que Me Digan Feo (with Tito Puente) 
• La Maquina Y La Madama (with Cortijo Y Su Combo) 
• Bilongo 
• Hola Soledad 
• Cuba Linda 
• Perdoname La Letra 
• Sobre Una Tumba, Una Rumba 
• No Me Dejes Solo (with Johnny Pacheco)
• El Paso De Encarnacion (with Johnny Pacheco)
• Inolvidable 

Celebrating the life and work of Felix Cahppottin. Chappottin is often compared to Louie Armstrong because of his virtuosity and Influence. He has influenced generations of Cuban trumpeters. Hear how he took over Arsenio Rodriguez’s work after he left Cuba, his rise to stardom and his influence that continues to this day!   Mariquitas Y Chicharrones  Yo Soy Tiburon  Quimbombo Rompe Saragüey  Micaela Me Boto Mi son, mi son, mi son Sazonando Mentiras Criollas Alto Songo Fue un espejismo  Camina y prende el fogon  Adversidad Bonito Y sabroso

 Gilberto Miguel Calderon, better known as Joe Cuba, was an influential conguero and bandleader. Joe Cuba’s sextet featured incredible singers such as Cheo Feliciano, Jimmy Sabater, Willie Torres. They served as an important voice of the generation of Latinos, mostly Puerto Ricans, growing up in New York, in between two cultures. Tu Bombon Yo Vine Pa’ Ver  Picando De Vicio  Mujer  To Be With You  I’m Insane This Is Love  Arecibo  Cachondea Guaracha Y Bembe El Raton  Como Rien  Quieres Volver  Mujer Divina  Mi Salsa Buena Salsa Ahi Na’ Ma’  Lo Bueno Ya Viene 

Today’s show is in honor of Johnny Pacheco. He was a multi instrumentalist, arranger, composer, dynamic performer and founder of Fania Records and the Fania All Stars. But to me Pacheco is more than the sum of his phenomenal achievements, he is a visionary and a cultural warrior. Listen and enjoy as you hear all about his beginnings in music at 7 years old, how he started the Charanga craze and so much more! Chanchullo (with Tito Puente) Dance Mania 1957 Pacheco’s Descarga (with Charlie Palmieri) Pachanga 1960 El Guiro de Macorina Pacheco Y Su Charanga 1961 Pa’ los pollos Suavito 1962 Batachanga Suavito 1962 Dos Gardenias By Popular Demand 1966 Dakar Punto Final Cañonazo 1963 Recordando A Carmelina (feat. Pete ’El Conde’ Rodriguez) Los Compadres 1971 El Champolon (feat. Chivirico Davila) Viva Africa 1966 Cositas Buenas (feat. Pete ’El Conde’ Rodriguez) Tres De Cafe Y Dos De Azucar 1973 Fania All Stars Cha Cha Cha Delicate and Jumpy 1976 Guajira para los pollos California Jam 1980 Isla del Encanto Viva La Charanga 1986 Sale A Buscar (feat. Hector Casanova) Los Amigos 1979 Llegaste Tarde (feat. Pete ’El Conde’ Rodriguez) De Nuevo Los Compadres 1983 Ay Maria Elena(feat. Pete ’El Conde’ Rodriguez)  Celebracion 1989 Jicamo Y Salsa (feat. Melon Luis Silva) Llego Melon 1977 Lamento De Campesino (feat. Daniel Santos) Los Distinguidos 1979 Rico Changui (feat. Celia Cruz) Tremendo Cache 1975 Vida (feat. Celia Cruz) Celia, Johnny & Pete 1980 Corazon Herido (feat. Justo Betancourt) Los Dinamicos 1971 La Palabra Fin (feat. Rolando LaSerie) De Pelicula 1982

In September of 1970 rightwing Chilean media baron Agustín Edwards Eastman traveled to Washington DC to meet with CIA director Richard Helms, Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and President Richard Nixon. They discussed plans to overthrow the then newly elected government of Salvador Allende.

This was just one part of the sinister role that Chile's wealthiest and most powerful media baron played in the events of the 11 September 1973.

Songs:

Plegaria a un labrador - Víctor Jara, Quilapayún

Con el alma llena de banderas - Quilapayún

Encuentro con la vida - Illapu

Today we remember and celebrate the life and work of Tite Curet Alonso on what would have been his 96th birthday. Tite was the composer of more than 2,000 songs, 500 of which became hits. Not only was he writing hits, he was writing songs with a hitorical, political and social conciousness. Tite Curet can be held in the same regard as Rafael Hernandez and Pedro Flores. Listen to his incredible compositions and amazing story. 

https://voiceofthelily.water.blog/2019/12/20/tite-curet-alonso-poet-of-the-people-new-revised-article/

• La Lupe; La Tirana -- Reina De Cancion Latina 1967
• Tite Rodriguez; Tiemblas — Algun Lugar Bajo El Sol 1969
• Santos Colon; Fiel — Fiel 1972
• Rubén Blades; Plantacion Adentro — Willie Colon Presents Ruben Blades 1977
• Ray Barretto; El Hijo de Obatala — Indestructible 1973
• Cortijo Y SU Combo; Se Escapo Un Leon — La Quinela Del Dia 1976
• Cheo Feliciano; Juan Albañil — Sentimiento Tú 1980
• Cheo Feliciano; Sobre Una Tumba Humilde — Sentimiento Tú 1980
• Cheo Feliciano; Pienso en ti — Cheo 1971
• Fania All Stars feat. Celia Cruz; Isadora — Crossover 1980
• Hector Lavoe; Periodico del Ayer — De Ti Depende 1976
• Tommy Olivencia; Como novela de amor — Plante Bandera 1975
• Tite Curet Alonso; Caonabo — Aqui Estoy Con Un Poco De Algo 1975 
• Mon Rivera; Pena de Amor — 49 minutes 
• Ismael Quintana; Hay Que Tener Razon — Lo Que Estoy Viviendo 1976

Many don't know his name. He was the president of the Partido Nationalista Puerto Rico. He called for armed revolution, simultaneous uprisings in towns around Puerto Rico, an attack on La Fortaleza and an assassination attempt against US President Truman. But we have to ask, why? Why did he do these things? Was he a psychopath who tried to violently overthrow the United States? Or was this born from a profound need for extreme actions? We cannot fully understand him or his valiant fight for independence without understanding the circumstances from which he evolved. This is the story of Pedro Albizu Campos, known affectionately by many as Don Pedro   

Read my article about Don Pedro here: https://voiceofthelily.water.blog/2022/02/05/don-pedro-albizu-campos-a-genius-revolutionary-revised-version-with-podcast/ Songs:  Pedro Albizu Campos - Andres Jimenez ‘El Jibaro’ 'El Jibaro' Coño Despierta Boricua - Andres Jimenez 'El Jibaro'  Que Bonita Bandera - Ramito La Borinqueña- Danny Rivera   Works Cited:  Works Cited Democracy Now. “War against All Puerto Ricans: Inside the U.S. Crackdown on Pedro Albizu Campos & Nationalist Party.” Www.youtube.com, 21 Apr. 2015, www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=khkONOYSB8Q. Accessed 31 Jan. 2022.  Denis, Nelson A. “King of the Towels: The Torture and Murder of Pedro Albizu Campos.” Latino Rebels, 10 Mar. 2015, www.latinorebels.com/2015/03/10/king-of-the-towels-the-torture-and-murder-of-pedro-albizu-campos/. Accessed 31 Jan. 2022.  ---. “Pedro Albizu Campos.” WAR against ALL PUERTO RICANS, 25 Feb. 2015, waragainstallpuertoricans.com/pedro-albizu-campos/. Accessed 31 Jan. 2022.  ---. War against All Puerto Ricans : Revolution and Terror in America’s Colony. New York, Bold Type Books, 2016. “Drew Pearson Interviews Gov Luis Muñoz Marín.” Www.youtube.com, www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWU9o5xjfKQ&t=543s. Accessed 31 Jan. 2022.  Federico Ribes Tovar. Albizu Campos: Puerto Rican Revolutionary. New York] Plus Ultra Educational Publishers, 1971. Fernndez, Johanna. YOUNG LORDS : A Radical History. S.L., Univ Of North Carolina Pr, 2020. González, Juan. Harvest of Empire : A History of Latinos in America. New York, Penguin, 2011. Kaike, Anani. “Don Pedro Albizu Campos, a Genius Freedom Fighter.” Voice of the Water Lily, 30 July 2019, voiceofthelily.water.blog/2019/07/30/don-pedro-albizu-campos-a-genius-freedom-fighter/. Accessed 31 Jan. 2022. ---.  “It’s a Colony, Why Does It Matter? Puerto Rico, US Occupation, Uprising and Cornelius Rhoads’s Medical Experiments on My People.” Voice of the Water Lily, 25 Mar. 2019, voiceofthelily.water.blog/2019/03/25/its-a-colony-why-does-it-matter-puerto-rico-us-occupation-uprising-and-cornelius-rhoadss-medical-experiments-on-my-people/. Accessed 31 Jan. 2022.  “Puerto Rico.” The Eugenics Archives, eugenicsarchive.ca/discover/connections/530ba18176f0db569b00001b. Accessed 31 Jan. 2022.

Today's show is in honor of legendary percussionist, bandleader and dancer Roberto Roena, after he would have celebrated his 82nd birthday on January 16. I am so honored to present this show with special guests Tyta Nieves-Roena (Roberto's wife), producer and manger Richie Viera and Aurora Flores. It is a beautiful conversation filled with amazing stories that help the listener really understand who Roberto was and what he was like. 

Feliz Cumpleaños, Roberto Roena. 

 Celebrating the life and work of two phenomenal and pivotal musicians-Mario Bauza and Machito. Heat their incredible stories and music!

Listen to a fascinating conversation about Rafael Cortijo featuring special guest Aurora Flores. You will learn about the beginnings of Cortijo y Su Combo con Ismael Rivera, which Cuban musician first greeted Cortijo at the Palladium, the role of Bobby Capó in the success of the band, and so, so much more. This is all intertwined with the powerful music of Cortijo!  Espero que disfruten mucho!  Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @voiceofthewaterlily Link to Maquino Landera (live) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWLuxZ90YuQ

It is no small statement to call someone unforgettable, however Tito Rodriguez is one case we can safely say, someone who is truly unforgettable. Sometimes it is hard to define with  words to say why an artist is so special. For me, Tito's pure sentimiento is what makes him unforgettable. Despite the fact that he joined the ancestors 49 years ago, he still is just as alive now as he was then. Today we celebrate and remember the unforgettable one. Feliz Cumpleanos to Tito Rodriguez.  Songs: Baranga Cha Cha Cha Para Ti Barito Guaguanco Bonito Mama Güela (live) Cuando Cuando Bailala Hasta Las Dos Tu Pañuelo Avisale A Mi Contrario Besar Un Cigarillo La Lluvia Y Tu Vuela La Paloma Cualquier Cosa Amor Perdoname Cariño Mio Bilongo Satin and Lace (live) El Vive Bien El Doctor Del Amor Me Faltabas Tu Tiemblas Esta Tarde Vi Llover Ha Llegado La Hora Links:

Feliz Año Nuevo! "Down with Mediocrity; Up With Greatness"! For this 2-hour New Year Special, we will be hearing some of the greatest, most complex and profound music that Latin Music has to offer. And while we are just scratching the surface, you will hear a range of artists and styles, all having one thing in common; they all unite us inside of the rhythm of life. Enjoy this special show as we celebrate greatness. 

• Cuba Linda — Grupo Folklorico Y Experimental Nuevayorquino

Album: Concepts In Unity

Year: 1975

Comp: 

• Mi Congo Te Llama — Eddie Palmieri

Album: Lucumi Macumba and Voodoo

Year: 1978

Comp: Eddie Palmieri, Bob Bianco, Fransisco Aguabella

• Ta Julian — Los Muñequitos De Matanzas

Album: De Palo Pa Rumba

Year: 2009

Comp: José Andro Mesa Bosh

• Se Me Olvido — Grupo Folklorico Y Experimental Nuevayorquino

Album: Lo Dice Todo

Year: 1976

Comp: Andy + Jerry Gonzalez

• Descarga Candido (Live) — Candido Camero + Cachao

Album: The Last Mambo

Year: 2006

Comp: Candidio Cammero + Cachao

• Congo Blues — Mongo Santamaria

Album: Mongo’s Way

Year: 1971

Comp: Congo Blues

• Mambo For Vibes — Hilton Ruiz + Tito Puente

Album: Hands On Percussion

Year: 1995

Comp: Tito Puente

• Seven Steps To Heaven — Giovanni Hidalgo

Album: Worldwide

Year: 1993

Comp: Miles Davis

• Liberated Spirit — Ray Barretto and New World Spirit

Album: The Message

Year: 1998

Comp: Ray Barretto

• Agua De Clavelito — Johnny Pacheco Y Su Tumbao Añejo feat. Hector Casanova

Album: Los Amigos

Year: 1979

Comp: Miguel Angel Pozo

• Que Palo Es Ese — Los Van Van

Album:

Year: 1989? 1983?

Comp: Juan Formell

• El Paquete — Barbaro Fines Y Su Mayimbe

Album: Mensajeros De Dios

Year: 2013

Comp:

• Sentimiento — Pete ‘El Conde’ Rodriguez

Album: Este Negro Si Es Sabroso

Year: 1976

Comp: Tite Curet Alonso

• Nague — Machito and his Afro Cubans

Album:

Year:

Comp: Chano Pozzo

• Guaguanco Africano — Miguelito Valdes

Album:

Year:

Comp:

• Agua Que Va A Caer—Patato and Totico

Album:

Year:

Comp:

• Agua Que Va A Caer—Cortijo Y Su Combo

Album:

Year:

Comp:

• Cuando Estoy Contigo — Johnny Ventura

Album: Siempre en Orbita

Year: 1973

Comp: Armando Manzanero

Remembering Bobby Capó, 32 years after his passing. From his tear welling odes to Puerto Rico to his romantic Boleros and Cha-Cha-Chas; Bobby Capó remains one of the most beloved singers Puerto Rico has ever seen. You will hear all about his life and listen to some beautiful songs. Enjoy! Dime que si, dime que no; Bobby Capo Le Lo Lay - Bobby Capo Vuelve; Despierte Borincano  Ay Que Vergüenza Me Da; The Wonderful World Of Bobby Capó  Tapame Contigo; Invitation To Love  Rosa Rica  Soñando Con Puerto Rico;  Despierte Borincano Despierte Borincano;  Despierte Borincano Mi Borinquen; Despierte Borincano El Premio Mayor  Mi Boca Sin Tu Boca; The Wonderful World Of Bobby Capó  Llorando Me Dormi; Cronología  Piel Canela; The Wonderful World Of Bobby Capó  Muy Adentro Vincente Fernandez  Amor Eterno

Today's episode is about two incredible singers who recently joined the ancestors; Meñique (December 30, 1933-November 28, 2021) and Paquito Guzman (November 20, 1939-December 9, 2021). You will hear about their lives and legacies! Enjoy music featuring these two amazing singers and their work with bandleaders, the likes of Tito Puente, Tommy Olivencia and Charlie Palmieri...

Buen Viaje, Maestros! 

Meñique: 

No Hay Amistad

Salsa Y Sabor 

Timbalero Mayor 

Mi Tierra Lejana 

Los Pequenitos De Son feat. Santitos Colon

Paquito Guzman:

Oye Mi Consejo feat. Tommy Olivencia 

El Son Cubano feat. Tommy Olivencia 

Sobre Una Tumba, Una Rumba 

Raices 

Mintiendo Se Gana Mas 

Celebrating a phenomenal talent...Pete 'El Conde' Rodriguez. You will hear tunes like Cañonazo and Cositas Buenas as well as ones like Babaila and  Amor De Mis Amores. listen to his incredible story and the incredible legacy he left behind. 

With Pacheco:

Caõnazo 1963

Convergencia 1967

Un Nuevo Amor 1970

Cositas Buenas 1973

Yo Tengo La Llave 1989 

Solo Work:

Babaila 1974

Areito A Sonar 1977 

Tumbakutum 1976

Amor De Mis Amores 1977 

Vacila Con Tu Trago 1986

I was perusing the internet the other day when I came across the music of Spanish pop sensation Niño Bravo and his song “Un Beso y Una Flor” and I absolutely loved his voice and the style of the song, that dramatic 1970’s baroque pop sound. I of course looked him up and found out that one of his most famous songs, “Libre”, was played while political detainees and political prisoners in Chile were tortured by Pinochet’s regime. I’ll let that sink in for a moment.  I was immediately horrified especially when I found out that the song was originally written against Franco’s regime in Spain. So I realized that this song written against fascism was actually hijacked by it. It disturbed me, especially when I actually listened to the song, there was such a crazy contradiction there, this passionate song about freedom and the idea that people were tortured to the sound of it. That really messed with my head. Because I liked the sound of the song, yet I was revolted by the idea of it being used as a fascist anthem and the soundtrack of torture. Naturally this set up a wild contradiction inside of me.  So naturally I wrote a story and now I'm reading it for you!

Remembering and experiencing the magic of Charlie Palmieri; one of the greatest Puerto Rican piano virtuosos of all time. We will hear and explore his early work with his Charanga La Duboney, his work with Vitin AViles and Meñique and so much more. You will learn about his life and even hear a special anecdote about him from a family friend. ENJOY and don't forget to follow me on Facebook and Instagram. Go check out my blog too!  Songs:  Ritmo Charanga  Palmieri Y La Duboney  Either You Have It Or You Don't  Dame Tu Corazon feat. Vitin Aviles  Guaguanco En Puerto Rico No Puedo Vivir feat. Vitin Aviles  Tributo A Pedro Flores feat. Meñique  Sedante De Rumba feat. Vitin Aviles  El Cantante De Amor feat. Vitin Aviles  Vamonos Pa'l Monte feat. Charlie Palmieri, Eddie Palmieri and Ismael Quintana  Live Videos Of Charlie Palmieri:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tyl8Gh1v9uY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gBd4gRty1Y with his brother, Eddie and Ismael Quintana  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0MTTTOB8nQ With Ray Barretto, Andy Gonzalez and Nicky Marrero Charanga  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charanga_(Cuba)

"He made me ashamed of being ashamed", declared Bill Nieves when talking about the great Puerto Rican Cuatrista, Yomo Toro. This week's episode is a fascinating conversation between three amazing elders; Aurora Flores, Bill Nieves and Jose Mangual Jr. Thanks to Aurora, who set up both of these interviews, I was able to sit in on these amazing recounts of history and take it all in.  Bill Nieves, former producer of Yomo Toro's TV show, 'El Show De Yomo Toro', was able to recount his days working with Yomo intertwined with his amazing personal story. He speaks of Yomo with such love and respect and helps the listener get the idea of who Yomo was as a person.  We also had the privilege to speak with Jose Mangual Jr., an incredible musician, particularly percussionist. He recounts his experience recording the seminal Christmas  album 'Asalto Navideno'. He also talks about his musical influences, the role of Cortijo and a lot more. All of these fascinating stories are intertwined with music.  Asalto Navideño, recorded in 1971, was a seminal album that brought together the best of both worlds; a New York Latin sound and a traditional, authentic Puerto Rican Jibaro sound. The album featured the likes of Hector Lavoe, Yomo Toro, Milton Cardona, Profesor Joe Torres and Jose Mangual jr. and others. On the album you will hear styles such as aguinaldos, bombas, plenas and guaracha jibaras.  Enjoy the captivating conversation and amazing music.  Lechon De Cachete; This is one of Yomo's original compositions. Hector's use of Puerto Rican slang is amazing in this song. He uses the term "de cachete" which refers to something that you get for free. This goes back to the tradition of parrandas where musicians would go house to house during the holidays. People would invite them in and feed them, a tradition that has long standing in Puerto Rico, if you tried something like that in New York, someone would definitely call the cops on you.  Canto A Borinquen  Viva La Vida Contento Aires De Navidad  Traigo La Salsa 

Celebrating the work, life and contributions of Ismael Quintana. You will hear about his early life, beginnings in music, early days with Eddie Palmieri's La Perfecta and his later work with Fania. Enjoy and don't forget to follow me on Facebook and Instagram  @voiceofthewaterlily  Mi Isla Preciosa w Eddie Palmieri; La Perfecta 1961 Si Echo Pa'lante w Eddie Palmieri; Echando Pa'lante 1964 Adoracion w Eddie Palmieri; Sentido 1973 La Libertad w Eddie Palmieri; Vamonos Pa'l Monte 1971 Verdad Amarga w Eddie Palmieri; Lo Que Traigo Es Sabroso 1963 Jessica w Ricardo Marrero and the Group; Jessica 1979 Piano Man w the Fania All Stars; Commitment 1980 Maestro De Rumberos; Lo Que Estoy Viviendo 1976 Mientes; Amor Vida Y Sientimento 1977 Contento Estoy; El Molestoso vol. 2 1962 

Honoring and remembering the divine voice of Santito Colon. You will hear everything from 'Agua Limpia Todo' to 'Mi Sueno' and 'Amantes'.  Don't forget to follow me on Instagram and Facebook @voiceofthewaterlily Agua Limpia Todo w Tito Puente; Dance Mania, 1957 Llora Timbero w Tito Puente; De Mi Para Ti, 1965 Mirame Mas w Tito Puente; No Hay mejor, 1975 Como Un Arullo De Palma w Tito Puente; Homanaje A Beny Moré Vol. 2, 1979 Dime; Commitment, 1980 Soy Guajiro; Live at Yankee Stadium, 1975 Mi Sueno; A Portrait Of Santos Colon, 1967 Amantes; Historia De Un Amor, 1971 Que Te Vaya Bien; Mis Grandes Exitos-El Bolero De Amor Siempre Por Siempre; Santitos 1970

Remembering and honoring Rafael Hernandez Marin (1898-1965) after what would have been his 130th birthday! Enjoy, leave a comment and tell me what you think! Also follow me on social media  @voiceofthewaterlily and check out my blog voiceofthelily.water.blog Pobre Jibarito-Rafael & Su Conjunto; Campanitas De Cristal-Joe Valle; Lo Mejor De Rafael Hernandez, 1958 Enamorado De Ti-Felipe Pirela; Interpreta a Rafael Hernandez Lo Siento Por Ti-Tito Rodriguez & His Orch.; My Heart Sings For You, 1965 Preciosa-Johnny Albino; Amor Ciego-Eddie Palmieri. Ismael Quintana; Justicia Si Me Muero Madre Mia-Rafael & Su Conjunto; Lamento Borincano (live)-Facundo Cabral; America Canta (En Vivo), 2008 No Me Quieres Tanto-Los Panchos; Tu No Comprendes-Santito Colon; A Portrait of Santos Colon, 1967 Que Te Vale-Johnny Pacheco; Los Compadres, 1970 Canta-Cheo Feliciano; The Singer, 1976Ep. 10

The second part of my two part conversation with Aurora Flores! “A breakthrough woman of salsa talks about taking a quantum leap through machismo as she reports on Machito receiving the keys to NYC, Roberto Roena’s patriotic defense of bomba music and the misogynistic envy toward a female led band”. Listen to part two of my incredible interview with Aurora Flores, a true cultural warrior, journalist, activists, writer and CEO of Aurora Communications. Song: Cuembe Cortijo Y Su Combo con Ismael Rivera

“A breakthrough woman of salsa talks about taking a quantum leap through machismo as she reports on Machito receiving the keys to NYC, Roberto Roena’s patriotic defense of bomba music and the misogynistic envy toward a female led band”. Listen to my incredible interview with Aurora Flores, a true cultural warrior, journalist, activists, writer and CEO of Aurora Communications.

Today’s episode will be celebrating Ismael Rivera’s 90th birthday and the 27th anniversary of the passing of Chivirico Davila. We will be exploring their music and impact on our music. Listen and enjoy.  Lejos de ti - Ismael Rivera con Cortijo Y Su Combo; Bienvenido, 1965 Lagrimas Puras - Ismael Rivera Y Sus Chachimbos; Traigo De Todo, 1973 Las Caras Lindas -  Ismael Rivera Y Sus Chachimbos; Esto Si Es Lo Mio, 1978 Witinila - Ismael Rivera Y Sus Chachimbos; Traigo De Todo, 1973 Las Ingratitudes - Ismael Rivera con Cortijo Y Su Combo; Invites you to dance,  1958 Yenyere - jala - jala - Chivirico Davila with Richie Ray; On The Scene With Richie Ray  Babalao - Chivirico Davila; Chivirico, 1973 Mar Y Cielo - Chivirico Davila; Para Mi Gente, 1976 Perfidia - Chivirico Davila; Chivirico, 1971 Lloviendo en Puerto Rico - Chivirico Davila  

“You have to see past all the flaws and mistakes a man commits in his life. Once you can see beyond a person’s imperfections in life, that’s when you can discover how beautiful an individual can be” (Antonio Mejias, The Life and Times of the Legendary Joe Cuba)" Those are words of Joe Cuba when asked about Héctor Lavoe...Today's episode is about one of Salsa's greatest stars Héctor Lavoe who would have celebrated his 75th birthday on September 30. We will also be celebrating Vitín Avíles who would have celebrated his 91st birthday on September 30. Borinquen - Héctor Lavoe; El Malo, 1967 Ah ha, oh no - Héctor Lavoe; El Juicio, 1972 Joven Contra Vejo - Héctor Lavoe feat. Daniel Santos; Feliz Navidad, 1979 Ausencia - Héctor Lavoe; Cosa Nuestra, 1969 Todo Tiene Su Final - Héctor Lavoe; Lo Mato, 1973 Tu Bien Lo Sabes - Héctor Lavoe; Tu Bien Lo Sabes, 2001 El Cantante - Héctor Lavoe; Comedia, 1978 Triste Y Vacia - Héctor Lavoe; Vigilante, 1983 Por Que No Puedo Ser Feliz - Héctor Lavoe; Revento, 1985 Ponce - Héctor Lavoe; Strikes Back, 1987 At Ti Que Te Pasa - Vitín Avilés with the Tito Rodriguez Orchestra; Tito Rodriguez Presenta Vitin Aviles, 1964 Read the article I wrote last year about Hector Lavoe. http://voiceofthelily.water.blog/2020/06/29/hector-lavoe-el-cantante-de-los-cantantes-27-years-after-his-passing/

In today’s episode we will be celebrating the 47th anniversary of the iconic Fania All Stars performance, Live In Africa. We are also going to honor the life and work of Roberto Roena who joined the ancestors yesterday at the age of 81. There are links to see the videos of the performance.  Songs: Quimbara Fania All Stars Live In Africa feat. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_uamNoDhP4 El Raton Fania All Stars Live In Africa feat. Cheo Feliciano https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-gyQ2M-Upw En Orbita Fania All Stars Live In Africa https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-uvOriFxXI Mi Gente Fania All Stars Live In Africa feat. Hector Lavoe https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ah2GLqomT9c Ponte Duro Fania All Stars Live In Africa feat. Ray Barretto, Nicky Marrero and Roberto Roena (on percussion; Congas, timbales and bongos) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFgB1Y-ZwyY Guantanamera Fania All Stars Live In Africa feat. Ismael Quintana, Hector Lavoe, Ismael Miranda and Santos/Santito Colon. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPaZHqn5FHM Traición Roberto Roena Y Su Apollo Sound; Apollo Sound 6   Read my article about Roberto Roena http://voiceofthelily.water.blog/2021/09/24/roberto-roena-1940-2021-has-joined-the-ancestors/ Here is the full video.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SJfoBFjdnQ

I’ve been running into never ending problems with the western liberals recently, especially about the genocide in Gaza. This election cycle we are being presented with a supposedly democratic choice which is really no choice at all; between a racist, orange menace and maniac, or a genocide enabling geriatric psychopath. And the establishment is calling on us to chose between these two revolting individuals. Meanwhile the western liberals are telling us that we must vote for Biden, the genocide enabler and supporter. I want to unpack all this here today.

Todays episode is celebrating the life and work of Maestro Israel Lopez 'Cachao' (1918-2008), multi instrumentalist, arranger, composer, bandleader and co-creator of mambo.  Read my blog post about Cachao: http://voiceofthelily.water.blog/2021/09/14/celebrating-israel-cachao-lopez-on-what-would-have-been-his-103rd-birthday/ Songs: El Son No Ha Muerto - Cachao; Master Sessions Volume 1, 1994 Africa Viva - Cachao; The Last Mambo, 2010 Ko-Wo Ko-Wo - Cachao; Dos, 1977 Buenaventura - Cachao; The Last Mambo, 2010 Isora Club - Cachao; The Last Mambo, 2010 Descarga Guajira - Cachao; Perlas Cubanas: Cuban Music in "Jam Session"  Sorpresa De Flauta - Cachao; Cuban Jam Sessions in Miniature, 1957

Part 2 of my two part show on historical, social, spiritual and political consciousness in Latin Music. We will explore how Latin music has always told the story of the people, their struggles and their resistance.  Songs:  20 de Deciembre - Ruben Blades; Tiempos, 1999 La Fama -  Hector Lavoe; Reventó, 1985  Sobre Un Tumba Humilde - Cheo Feliciano; Sentimiento Tú, 1980 La Abolicion - Pete 'El Conde' Rodriguez; Este Negro Si Es Sabroso, 1975 El Tiburon - Ruben Blades and Willie Colon; Canciones Del Solar de los Aburridos, 1980 Caonabo -  Tite Curet Alonso; Aquí Estoy Con Un Poco De Algo, 1974 Agueybana Zemi -  Jerry Gonzalez; Ya Yo Me Curé, 1979 La Bendicion -  Ray Barretto; Contact, 1997 Tiempos -  Ruben Blades; Tiempos, 1999

The first part of a two part show on historical, social, spiritual and political consciousness in Latin Music. We will explore how Latin music has always told the story of the people, their struggles and their resistance.  Link to video of Ismael Rivera in La Perla https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ik19r4YuuQM Songs: Lamento Borincano-Daniel Santos written by Rafael Hernandez  Preciosa-Daniel Santos written by Rafael Hernandez  Que Bonita Bandera-Ramito Morales written by Ramito Morales  En Mi Viejo San Juan-Trio Los Panchos con Javier Solis written by Noel Estrada  El Negro Bembon- Ismael Rivera con Cortijo Y Su Combo written by Bobby Capo La Perla-Ismael Rivera y Sus Chachimbos written by Tite Curet Alonso Como Esta Mi Conuco-Benny More written by  Boco Boco-Tito Rodriguez and his Orchestra written by Chano Pozzo Together-Ray Barretto written by Ray Barretto Justicia-Eddie Palmieri written by Eddie Palmieri and Ismael Quintana

Celebrating the music of the Fania All Stars 50 years after their ‘Live at the Cheetah’ Performance and 48 years after ‘Live at Yankee Stadium. We will talk about the history, how these performances came about and what happened At these iconic events  Songs played: Estrellas de Fania-Fania All Stars feat. Pete ‘El Conde’ Rodriguez, Adalberto Santiago, Santito Colon, Ismael Miranda and Hector Lavoe Anacaona - Fania All Stars feat. Cheo Feliciano Quitate Tú - Fania All Stars feat. Cheo Feliciano, Pete ‘El Conde’ Rodriguez, Santito Colon, Adalberto Santiago, Ismael Miranda, Hector Lavoe  Pueblo Latino - Fania All Stars feat. Pete ‘El Conde’ Rodriguez Que Rico Suena Mi Tambor - Fania All Stars feat. Ismael Miranda  Congo Bongo - Fania All Stars feat. Mongo Santamaria and Ray Barretto Closing Theme - Fania All Stars  NOTE: I DO NOT own rights any of the music used on this podcast. I in no way imply ownership of any media used during the duration of this program. 

Welcome to voice of the waterlily, a new latin music podcast exploring our ancestral music over the last 100 years intertwined with a historical and personal perspective.  Another salsa legend has joined the ancestors, 'El Judio Maravilloso', Larry Harlow (March 20, 1939 - August 20, 2021). We will be celebrating his incredible work spanning across decades and talk about his contributions to the music we know as salsa.   NOTE: I DO NOT own the rights to any songs used. I in no way imply ownership of any media/music used during the duration of this program. No copyright infringement intended. All media remains sole property or respective copyright holders.  Songs: Larry Harlow Arsenio feat. Miranda - Tribute to Arsenio Rodriguez, Fania, 1971 Larry Harlow Vive la vida hoy feat. Frankie Dante - Con Larry Harlow, Cotique, 1972 Larry Harlow Yo soy latino feat. Nestor Sanchez + solo from Nicky Marrero - Yo soy latino, Fania, 1983 Larry Harlow Abran Paso  feat. Ismael Miranda - Abran Paso, Fania, 1971 Larry Harlow Dolor Y Amor feat. Ismael Miranda - Abran Paso, Fania, 1971 Larry Harlow lamento de un guajiro feat. Ismael Miranda + Pacheco -  Fania, 1971 Larry Harlow Canto Carabali feat. Junior Gonzalez - Jardinero Del Amor, Fania, 1976  Larry Harlow Guasasa feat. Ismael Miranda - Electric Harlow, Fania, 1970 Larry Harlow La Cartera feat. Junior Gonzales -  Salsa, Fania, 1974  Larry Harlow Gracia Divina- feat. Celia Cruz-Hommy, Fania, 1973 Larry Harlow Mirame+Oyeme Hommy, Fania, 1973

The horror in Gaza continues, people are killed by bombs, they are starved to death and massacred as they try to get flour to feed their families. In this time, sometimes we need poetry.

So we take a breath and read some poetry from one of the greatest to ever give us a look inside of the soul and mind of a poet; Pablo Neruda. There are so many lessons to be taken from his poems, so many feelings to be shared and an immense amount of insight! 

Chris Hedges' article about Aaron Bushnell: https://open.substack.com/pub/chrishedges/p/aaron-bushnells-divine-violence?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

Poems:

The day will come

Standard Oil Co.

United Fruit Co.

Do Not Ask Me

Ode to the atom

I will return

I call upon you

Point

The Victorious People

Songs:

Sobreviviendo - Illapu

Alcare el crit - Guillamino, Manuel Garcia

With the ongoing genocide in Gaza, I often think about Che Guevara. What would he be saying? today we answer that question. We will be examine the lessons about imperialism we can learn from Che Guevara's 1964 UN speech. Peaceful coexistence, the crisis of the Congo, Vietnam, nuclear weapons and much more is discussed.

We are often told that Cuba is an authoritarian, repressive dictatorship. But did anyone ever take a second to ask who really made Cuba a dictatorship?  Some will immediately say “Fidel Castro made Cuba a dictatorship”. Let us consider for a moment that Cuba actually I ts a dictatorship. Now let us ask ourselves WHO made it a dictatorship. Was it Fidel? Was it Batista? Was it the United States interventions and interference? The bay of pigs invasion? The 600 assassination attempts against Fidel? Was it the threat of military invasion? Was it the constant attempts by the CIA to overthrow the government? Was it the world’s lack of solidarity with the Cuban people? Was it the blockade? Was it the murder of Revolutionary heroes and Cuban citizens? Was it terrorist attacks from the US against the Cuban people? The designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism?

Llego

Romping

Ok, this may sound silly. This is something you don’t know about me, but I love Narnia, C.S. Lewis’ “the chronicles of Narnia”, while I will be the first to say there is some problematic language in some of the books, I love those books. The really do communicate something very deep, something bigger than a story of children stumbling into another world. I saw a quote earlier from Mahmoud Darwish that said “if the olive trees knew the hands that planted them their oil would become tears”. I thought about that…amidst so much human suffering, nature also suffers, all parts of nature. And then this passage from “the Last Battle”, the last book in the series came into my mind, so much so I actually got up and ran to find the book and when I opened the book, I came exactly to the page I was looking for. That’s when I knew I needed talk about this! This is going to be a show of a lot of unexpected connections!

cover image: The Last Battle (full-color collectors edition) by C.S Lewis

A lot has happened this week. As usual I update you on everything happening in Gaza before we get into this show about Uruguayan Nueva Canción artist, Daniel Viglietti.

link to playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1KSkDenNDXFKwzuyB5Wi53?si=e6bab2ff62e44d6c

[Español abajo]

Journalist Mansour Shouman is missing since Sunday.

POST on social media about this.

WRITE to the Canadian government (he is a Canadian citizen) and demand they look into this)

CONTACT publications and media networks to demand they cover this story.

Keep him in your prayers, affirmations and thoughts.

https://www.instagram.com/mansourshouman7/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet (note. his team continues to post on this account, Mansour himself is not posting)

(En Español)

El periodista Mansour Shouman está desaparecido desde el domingo. 
PUBLICA en las redes sociales sobre esto. 
ESCRIBE al gobierno canadiense (él es un ciudadano canadiense) y exige que lo investiguen) 
CONTACTA publicaciones y redes de medios para exigir que cubran esta historia. 
MANTENERLO en sus oraciones, afirmaciones y pensamientos.

I’ve always wondered how a person can quote Lolita Lebron and extol the virtues of Albizu Campos while simultaneously conforming to and defending the political structure of the United States Empire and its politicians. The cognitive dissonance within our community seems to have recently surged with the current discourse around this election and its implications. I have seen people, some of whom routinely quote and praise Puerto Rican revolutionaries, exalt the “leadership of the united states, particularly Joe Biden and now Kamala Harris. Simultaneously, I have also found it shocking that some people in our community cannot find it in their hearts to be in solidarity with their fellow oppressed people. There are those who have told me, well, what about us? We should focus on ourselves. These are two groups in our community that I have been observing recently and I find it prescient to talk about them here today.

Songs:

Pedro Redentor - Andres Jimenez

A Puerto Rico - Andres Jimenez

El Pueblo Unido - Quilapayún

Mosaico de Plenas Patrióticas - Andres Jimenez

Today’s show is a message for and a tribute to the survivors, the dead and us, we the people, humanity! It’s also a message for the politicians, the criminals committing these atrocities.  

Songs:

Somos Cinco Mil - Ángel and Isabel Parra

Estadio Chile - Pete Seeger

Preguntas por Puerto Montt - Víctor Jara

Luchin - Víctor Jara

Aunque Los Pasos Toquen - Illapu

Tres Versos Para Una Historia - Illapu

El Pueblo Unido Jamas Sera Vencido - Inti Illimani

La Era Esta Pariendo un Corazón - Silvio Rodriguez

El Derecho de Vivir en Paz - Rodrigo Gallardo

Join me today as I continue a series debunking myths and malicious propaganda that seeks to defame the legacy of revolutionary hero, Che Guevara. In this age where fake news can disseminate at lightning speed, and there is a war against education, knowing the truth of our history is essential.

The most often repeated claims about Che Guevara are certainly along the lines of, “he was a mass murderer”, “he killed for sport”, “he was known as el Carnicero of la Cabaña (the Butcher of the Cabaña)”, “a sadistic torturer” among many, many others. Wherever you look, by simply searching his name, mentioning the 4 syllables of his name or invoking his universally recognized image, you will find no scarcity of articles, books, interviews, documentaries, and social media posts announcing that all of this is true, based on the experiences of real Cuban exiles (or their family members in Cuba), and if anyone disagrees they are characterized as insane, uplifting a murderer, how that PragerU video about Che put it; “into sadistic thug worship”, or simply a commie, 17-year-old-socialist or a stupid college kid. The many claims can become overwhelming. Then there’s people on the other side, the left with often the best of intentions, defending Che from all of this. Unfortunately these arguments can be riddled with fallacies, and sometimes entirely miss the point. The response “but it was a revolution, people die” is not an acceptable response to the claims that Guevara was a murderer. So today, we ask where the truth is in all of this.