Hector Lavoe "El Cantante"
Hector Lavoe "Aguanile"
Like we discussed in class, Hector Lavoe was one of the early Latin artist signed to the New York Record label "Fania Records". Originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico, he moved to Manhattan in order to pursue his music. His music quickly became a national success in only a few years. Hector Lavoe played a large role in the music community when the term for 'salsa' music first surfaced in New York city. His style of music played in clubs and was very popular among dance clubs. As you can hear in these two hit songs, instruments like congas, the guido, cowbells, and sometimes guitars. Being signed to Fania Records allowed for multiple artist like Hector Lavoe to record their salsa music -- and let the world hear their talent and passion for this style of music. These are my two favorite songs by this artist, even though he was popular in the 60s and 70s, his music still seems to have a timeless effect on the salsa genre.
Thanks for posting! I found the natural sounds of the forest, and nature really interesting before the music started. It kind of gave a really raw sound to the song - and I believe was put there to show the roots of the Salsa style of music. Its interesting because it was popular in New York and you would never hear those sounds in that environment.
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting it!! I am an absolute fan of Hector Lavoe. Growing up, and to this day, his songs are extremely popular. El Cantante is such a beautiful song, and the beat of the song is consistent with many of the Cuban son elements.
ReplyDeleteConsidering I'm a Puerto Rican from New York, my family and I grew up listening to a lot of Hector Lavoe. The song El Cantante is a popular and great song. They even made a movie about Hector Lavoe called El Cantante which features Marc Anthony as Hector Lavoe and Jennifer Lopez who are both very famous Puerto Rican singers. I can definitely hear some Cuban son elements in the song. Lavoe's music will always be popular in the salsa genre for years to come.
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