Advertise on podcast: Mambo In The City Salsa Podcast

Send us a text I was outside! 🔥 In this episode of Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast, host Adrian Montanez breaks down three NYC Latin music events he attended: the Andy González tribute 🙏, Eddie Palmieri’s Unity Fest Tribute 🎹, and Conjunto Imagen at the Atrium  at Linclon Center🎺. Adrian shares the moments that hit, the performances that stood out, and why nights like these keep the culture alive. Support the show

Send us a text 🔥 NEW EPISODE RECAP — This one is pure salsa history and living legacy. In this episode, I’m joined by special guest Tito Rodriguez Jr, as we dive into his brand-new single “La Ley Del Guaguancó” featuring Gilberto Santa Rosa — and we celebrate Tito Jr’s 50 years en la música: the grind, the moments, and the legacy that continues to grow. We also take a meaningful trip down memory lane to honor the late Mario Grillo (Son of Machito) — sharing stories of the road, the brotherhood, and what it meant to move through the world connected to salsa’s greatest foundations. From there, Tito Jr opens up about the travel years with the “Big 3” Palladium Orchestra energy, the stories behind The Eclipse Album, and the everlasting impact of his late father — Palladium icon Tito Rodríguez — whose voice and elegance helped shape the sound of an era. 🎶 If you love classic salsa, Palladium history, and real behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is for you. ✅ Watch / Listen / Subscribe for more interviews, salsa culture, and NYC/Puerto Rico stories. #Salsa #TitoRodriguezJr #GilbertoSantaRosa #Guaguanco #Palladium #Machito #MarioGrillo #LatinJazz #Mambo #SalsaDura Support the show

Send us a text On this episode of the Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast, host Adrian Montañez sits down with Luisito Rosario, a dynamic salsa singer with over two decades of experience and a commanding stage presence. Born and raised in New Jersey to Puerto Rican parents, Luisito shares how the sounds of New York’s salsa legends inspired him to pursue a life in music.  He reflects on his journey from his early days singing with local groups to being handpicked by the legendary Larry Harlow of the Fania All-Stars in 1996. Luisito recalls recording “Tumba y Bongo” for Harlow’s 35th anniversary album, touring the world, and learning from salsa icons like Néstor Sánchez.  Together, Adrian and Luisito dive into the evolution of salsa, the balance between tradition and modern styles, and what the future looks like for the next generation of performers. Along the way, Luisito opens up about favorite memories, career highlights, and the cultural pride that fuels his passion for salsa.  This conversation, guided by Adrian Montañez, blends storytelling, history, and inspiration—making it a must-listen for salsa lovers and new listeners alike. Support the show

Send us a text 🎷 Episode 64: Mitch Frohman – Sax, Soul & Salsa Breakdown: Bronx native Mitch Frohman is one of the top saxophonists and flutists in the world, with a career spanning salsa, Latin-jazz, pop, and beyond. In this episode, host Adrian Montanez dives into Mitch’s incredible journey — from his early days in the Bronx, through decades on stage with legends like Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaria, Celia Cruz, Machito, Eddie & Charlie Palmieri, and even crossing into pop with Paul Simon, Cyndi Lauper, Talking Heads and more. For 25 years, Mitch held down the sax/flute chair with the Tito Puente Orchestra and Latin-Jazz Ensemble, and today he continues to tour the world with the Grammy-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra and lead his own acclaimed groups like The Bronx Horns and his Latin-Jazz Quartet. We talk about: 🏙️ Growing up in the Bronx and the sounds that shaped him🎶 Playing with salsa and jazz royalty🌎 Touring the world and carrying the tradition forward  If you love salsa, Latin jazz, or NYC music history, Mitch’s stories are pure gold. This episode is equal parts history lesson, masterclass, and inspiration for musicians and music lovers alike. Host: 🎙️ Adrian Montanez — concert photographer turned podcaster, bringing behind-the-lens curiosity and passion for music to every conversation. Support the show

Send us a text Mario Díaz — Born in NYC of Cuban descent, Mario launched his career at De Witt Clinton High School as a dancer, percussionist, singer, and emcee. Since then, he has become a multifaceted entertainer, choreographer, and host across salsa, boxing, and cultural stages worldwide. He has emceed major events including the Dominican Salsa Congress, SOB’s, Havana Club, the World Salsa Championships, and Salsa ATL. As a dancer, Mario has performed at iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden, Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Disney World, the Los Angeles Coliseum, and toured internationally in Colombia, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Cuba, Italy, and Switzerland. Mario has shared the stage with legends like Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Willie Rosario, Marc Anthony, Oscar D’León, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Ray Sepúlveda, La India, and The Stylistics. He has choreographed for Tito Puente, Víctor Manuelle, José Alberto “El Canario,” and La Combinación Perfecta tour, among others. His television and film credits include performances on Good Day NY, Telemundo, CBS, ABC, and the movie Center Stage. Today, Mario continues to inspire as a dance instructor, choreographer, personal coach, percussionist, singer, and emcee, believing that through music and dance, one can express freedom and joy. Support the show

Send us a text In this unforgettable episode, host Adrian L. Montañez sits down with salsa legend Rey Sepúlveda, whose voice helped define an entire era of salsa romántica and salsa dura. ✨ Highlights from the Conversation: Rey reflects on his roots, growing up in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where he shared his formative years and friendship with the future salsa icon Frankie Ruiz.Memories of his early career and his time with Orquesta Sociedad 76The stories behind some of his most iconic hits, including “No Vale la Pena Enamorarse”, and his collaborations with Johnny Ray (Salsa Con Clase) and RMM ERA.Insights into being part of Ralph Mercado’s legendary roster and “La Perfecta Combinación”, which marked salsa’s golden years.His reflections on the legacy of salsa and how the genre continues to inspire across generations.🌎 From Brooklyn to stages across the globe, Rey’s journey — shaped by friendship, music, and perseverance — reminds us why salsa is truly timeless. Support the show

Send us a text In this unforgettable episode, host Adrian Montañez welcomes Antonio Hernández, the Puerto Rican sonero whose voice and journey have become part of salsa’s living history. Antonio reflects on his early years with Oro Negro and La Patrulla 15, before sharing the career-defining moment when he joined Tito Rojas y Su Orquesta in 1995. For more than 25 years, Antonio traveled the world alongside “El Gallo Salsero,” bringing Puerto Rican salsa to stages across Latin America, Spain, Israel, Africa, and the United States. The conversation highlights:  ✨ Memories from life on tour with Tito Rojas  ✨ What it meant to represent Puerto Rican salsa on the world stage  ✨ Collaborations with Willie Rosario, Andy Montañez, Edwin Clemente, and El Barretto Show ✨ How Antonio continues to perform and keep salsa alive today This episode is more than a look back—it’s a heartfelt tribute to the music, the brotherhood, and the legacy of a career that continues to inspire salsa lovers worldwide. Support the show

Send us a text This week on Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast, host Adrian Montañez sits down with a true legend of Latin music: José Madera. With over 31 years performing with Tito Puente, José’s career spans decades of salsa, mambo, and Latin jazz history. 🌟 Highlights of the Episode: Machito Orchestra Days – José recalls his time playing in one of the most influential Afro-Cuban jazz ensembles that shaped New York’s Latin music scene.31 Years with El Rey (Tito Puente) – Stories from the bandstand, tours across the world, and the energy of working alongside the King of Latin Music.Memories of John "Dandy" Rodríguez – Personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes moments with one of the great bongoceros of our time.Travel Stories with Tito Puente – The magic, the chaos, and the unforgettable experiences of touring with "EL Rey Del Timbal.The Mambo Legends Orchestra – How José and fellow musicians continue to keep the music alive, honoring the traditions of Tito Puente, Machito, and Tito Rodríguez while pushing the sound into the future.🎶 Why You Can’t Miss This: This episode is a treasure chest of salsa history, told directly by someone who lived it. From Palladium-era mambo roots to the grand stages of international tours, José Madera’s stories connect the past, present, and future of Latin music. 🔗 Listen now on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. 📸 Don’t forget to check out exclusive photos and behind-the-scenes content at MamboInTheCity.com and on Instagram @MamboInTheCityPodcast. Support the show

Send us a text Episode Description: In this episode of Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast, host Adrian Montanez sits down with Hilton Bonilla — one of New York’s most respected salsa DJs and percussionists. Hilton opens up about: His years perfor ming with Tony Vega, La India, and Tito Rojas 🎶What it’s like to go from being a band percussionist to becoming a salsa DJWhy he launched his YouTube channel “Desde Mi Salita” and what fans can expectHis thoughts on the future of the salsa scene in New York & beyond 🌎Stories from the road, musical inspirations, and lessons learned from salsa legendsWhether you’re a lifelong salsero or new to the music, this conversation is filled with history, rhythm, and passion. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow salsa lovers! Follow Hilton Bonilla: YouTube: Desde Mi Salita Instagram: @HiltonBonilla Follow Mambo in the City Podcast: Website: MambointheCity.com Instagram: @MambointheCityPodcast YouTube: Mambo in the City Tags: Salsa, Latin Music, Salsa DJ, Hilton Bonilla, La India, Tony Vega, Tito Rojas, Salsa Podcast, Adrian Montanez, Mambo in the City, Desde Mi Salita Support the show

Send us a text 🎙️ Los Cuentos de Oro: Legendary Conguero Sammy García with Special Guest Tito Nieves! Get ready for a golden session of salsa history! Sammy García—renowned conguero and musical director for Charlie Aponte—joins us live from Puerto Rico with surprise guest Tito Nieves! 🎶 They dive deep into:  ✨ The legacy of El Conjunto Clásico 🏙️ Wild nights in NYC salsa clubs 🎵 The RMM era and iconic studio sessions 📖 Stories of Johnny Pacheco, Pete "Conde" Rodríguez, and the South Bronx 🔥 Never-heard tales from the golden age of salsa! Hosted by Adrian Montanez & DJ Broadway Only on Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast 🕺💃 Support the show

Send us a text 🎙 Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast — Episode 59 Get ready for an action-packed episode! Host Adrian Montanez sits down for an exclusive interview with legendary actor Luis Guzmán to discuss his role in the highly anticipated Netflix thriller Havoc, starring Tom Hardy and Forest Whitaker. Also in this episode:  ✨ A full review of Grupo Niche’s unforgettable night at Carnegie Hall ✨ Adrian’s behind-the-scenes experience on the Locked red carpet in NYC ✨ Highlights from the Mambo in the City Salsa Social NYC ✨ Celebrating salsa icon Tito Nieves’ 50th anniversary at Coliseo de Puerto Rico 🎧 Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Audacy, iHeartRadio, or Spotify! Support the show

Send us a text Podcast Episode Summary: Mambo in the City Salsa Podcast“ A Journey with Edgar Joel In this salsa-packed episode of Mambo in the City Salsa, host Adrian Montanez sits down with the legendary Edgar Joel, one of the most recognizable figures in the golden era of salsa. Known for timeless hits like “Hasta el Sol de “and Hechizo de Luna, Edgar Joel takes us on an unforgettable journey through his storied career. From traveling the world alongside the iconic Johnny Pacheco to sharing memories of the late, great Frankie Ruiz, Edgar Joel brings listeners deep into the heart of salsa history. He recalls performing on legendary Latin television programs like El Show de las 12 and Sabado Gigante, reliving the electrifying energy of an era that defined salsa romantically. Edgar also opens up about the 1990s explosion of salsa music, his experience working with the smooth vocals of salsa singer Anthony Colon, and the creative process behind his biggest hits. With behind-the-scenes stories, laughter, and musical nostalgia, this episode is a must-listen for salsa lovers everywhere. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rhythm, passion, and legacy of salsa as we celebrate the career of a true maestro Edgar Joel! Support the show

Send us a text Join me for Episode 57 of the Mambo In the City Salsa Podcast with special guest Izzy Rodriguez! We’re talking:  His years with the Eddie Torres Mambo King Dance Company  Unforgettable Tito Puente memories   The legendary Monday Night Salsa Party at El Flamingo night club   The iconic Wild Palm Nightclub and hiring the Legend Cheo Feliciano  Plus, the upcoming "Baile De Los Salseros" at Co-Op City Ballroom March 1st!  Salsa lovers, you won’t want to miss this!  #MamboInTheCity #SalsaPodcast #IzzyRodriguez #SalsaLegends Support the show

Send us a text Episode 56: Luisito Ayala l  In this captivating episode of Mambo in the City, host Adrian Montanez sits down with the legendary Luisito Ayala, the musical powerhouse behind The Puerto Rican Power. Established in the 1970s, this iconic orchestra has shaped the salsa landscape, especially under Ayala's direction as trumpeter and musical director. Join us as Luisito reflects on the band's rise to fame, from accompanying salsa giants like Héctor Lavoe and Cheo Feliciano to their milestone album Con Todo El Poder, which launched the unforgettable hit “¡A donde irás?” Tune in for an inside look at their golden era with Tito Rojas and the orchestra’s continued legacy as ambassadors of Puerto Rican culture. With a rich history of accolades—including multiple Billboard nominations and recognition at the Latin Grammy Awards—this episode celebrates the enduring impact of The Puerto Rican Power. Whether you’re a salsa aficionado or new to the genre, you won't want to miss this deep dive into the rhythms that have captivated audiences around the world! Support the show

Send us a text Eric Velez is one of the most respected Latino percussionists of his generation. He is of Puerto Rican descent, and was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. Eric learned to play congas, bongos, and timbales at the young age of three with the assistance of his brother. His first musical performance was with Grupo Fascinacion at the age of fifteen.  At the age of seventeen, Eric played with Eddie Palmieri and in 1993 made his first recording with Marc Anthony for the movie soundtrack “Carlito’s Way.”  In 1996, Eric continued to record under RMM Records with producer Isidro Infante. Eric also traveled with the RMM Band, featuring Tito Puente. In 1997, Eric joined Marc Anthony’s band and later that year performed for President Clinton’s 1997 Inaugural Ceremony.  A year later, Eric recorded with Celia Cruz.  In 1999, Eric joined D.L.G. and also recorded with various artists under record producer Sergio George. Between 2000 and 2004, Eric performed with Marc Anthony on two tours, several TV shows, including Jay Leno, as well as the HBO Special: Marc Anthony the Concert. In 2005, Eric joined the “Juntos en Concierto Tour” featuring Marc Anthony. Later that year, Eric and his brother, Joe Juicy Jusino recorded a Salsa CD titled, “Juicy and Eric – Huracan.” In 2006, Eric went on another “Juntos en Concierto Tour 2” featuring Marc Anthony.  In October, Eric recorded with Marc Anthony for “Marc Anthony in Tenerife.”  In 2007, Eric continued to play with Marc Anthony and also began playing percussion with Jennifer Lopez and appeared on American Idol and David Letterman.  The following year, Drum! Magazine named Eric “Runner-up for Percussion Rising Star.”   In 2009, Toca Percussion launched the Eric Velez Signature Series Congas and Bongos. In October, Eric returned to the White House and performed with Marc Anthony for the “Fiesta Latina” performance. Eric has received many renowned distinctions, including another award by Drum! Magazine in 2009.  He was named “Live Percussionist of the Year,” “Runner-up Percussionist of the Year,” “Runner-up Latin Percussionist of the Year,” and “Runner-up Percussion Product of the Year.”  In 2010, Eric’s influence was significantly recognized once again when he was awarded Drum! Magazine’s “Runner-up Live Performer of the Year” and “Runner-up Latin Percussionist of the Year.”  In May 2011, Eric performed with Marc Anthony during the season finale of American Idol. Once again, his accomplishments were recognized when Eric received the award for “Runner-up Latin Percussionist of the Year” by Drum! Magazine. In 2012, Eric performed with Marc Anthony during the finale of Q’Viva: The Chosen. In June, Eric played for President Obama at the “Latinos for Obama Fundraiser” at the Jackie Gleason Theater.  That same year, Eric received an award by Drum! Magazine as “Runner-up Latin Percussionist of the Year.”  Eric toured this summer with the “GIGANT3S Tour” featuring Marc Anthony. He will be ending the year in Latin America with the “GIGANT2S Tour” featuring Marc Anthony. Eric is currently on Tour w/ Marc Anthony! Hosted by Adrian  Montanez! Bio Credit Toca Percussion  Support the show