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My Surprise: Ozzie Melendez and Jean Rodriguez

Posted by wendytfanlove on April 17, 2017 in Interviews

Hola!  I am so happy to be back to my blog site it has been a while; I am bring you all one of the sweetest surprises I have had this year, and believe me there have been many, will be blogging about some of them soon.

Today is about my beautiful Ozzie Melendez and Jean Rodriquez surprise interview; well in a way it’s not a real surprise as you all know by now I prepare and pray for all that happens in my life, but then again it still feels like a surprise to me. I have to say this is such a sweet interview for me because Ozzie Melendez has surprised me with his new Salsa song “Camaleón” and Jean Rodriguez along with his partner Danny Flores at their music production company, Coast City Music are the producers of Ozzie’s new musical project.

Last week I left to Foxswoods Casino in Connecticut a day before Marc Anthony’s concert because I wanted to rest a bit before my two days of Marc’s concerts (second concert was the next day in Long Island). I just wanted to be ready to enjoy it all; the next morning I went downstairs to get breakfast and Jean is walking towards me and we stopped to chat. I said Jean, “let me interview you today, we have been trying to set it up more than two years now”, he said, “OK let’s do it today after rehearsal”. During our conversation I mentioned my surprise about Ozzie singing such a beautiful Salsa song. Jean, says, “Wendy I produced it, we produced it at Coast City Music!”.  I was so surprised what are the odds that the two people I wanted to interview that day were working together! I said, “OMG, I want to see if I can interview Ozzie too”. Jean says, “Wendy he is around here somewhere so you might come across him”. So as I continued to walk, Ozzie was walking right towards me, so I set up an interview with him too. Sometimes I surprise myself, there is no other way for me to describe this gift from them than a “surprise”.

When the time came for the interview as I am speaking with them I just a got this surreal feeling because I am really in awe of them as these are musicians that I have seen countless of times from coast to coast and Puerto Rico. I have enjoyed when they have worked on their other projects besides their touring with Marc Anthony. During this interview I got the chance to learn more about these amazing musicians, that are not only trombone players (Ozzie), background singers (Ozzie and Jean), but they are also producers, composers, musical directors, they even give musical clinics to up and coming musicians. Ozzie and Jean have worked with the who’s who in the musical world. Ozzie is part of Funkharmonik Band they perform a unique Jazz/Funk style of music, he has worked with Gloria Stefan, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Ray Charles, Harry Connick, Jr., Celine Dion, and has been part of countless musical projects. Jean is really active producing and working on projects for Prince Royce, CNCO, JBalvin, and he has worked with legendary artists such as Ednita Nazario. Jean is also part of Tony Succar’s Unity Project Tribute to Michael Jackson, and sings several of Michael’s songs and does background vocals on others. If you have not seen this special project please look it up it’s really amazing.

The talents and passion they possess will be delighting us fans for years to come. I am beyond happy to be able to share with you fans Ozzie Melendez and Jean C. Rodriguez, enjoy my interview with them. Ozzie and Jean, Gracias de todo corazon, thank you for trusting in me to share your gift of your musical talents with the world.

“Camaleón” is available on all digital outlets, I hope you all love it as much I do! #fanlovetothemax, #wendytfanlove

Thank you Charlie Malave, for being my videographer and my Angel on so many occasions!

I tried to share with the Spanish speaking fans some information apologies for my poor Spanish skills, believe me my mother will be covering her hears too 🙂  Pero trate y eso es lo que cuenta!

You can follow Ozzie Melendez on his social media sites: www.OzzieMelendez.com, Facebook: Ozzie Melendez, Twitter: @oz_melendez, IG: oz_melendez

You can follow Jean Rodriguez on his social media sites: www.jeanmusica.com, Facebook; JeanMusica, Twiter: @jeanmusica, IG: @jeanmusica, @coastcitymusic

You can follow me on my social media sites: Facebook: Wendy Tiles (WendyT Fan Love, which will be coming soon), IG: @wendyt_ma, Twitter: @wendyt_ma_fan

 

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C45l0bYRrP8

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Don Sonero…. Dreams

Posted by wendytfanlove on November 9, 2016 in Interviews

He dreams about singing a ballad with Marc Anthony someday Gilberto Valequaez aka Don Sonero is amazingly special. What makes him special according to Wendy you may be asking be sides him sharing my admiration for Marc? Well let me tell you.  Don Sonero is a Salsa singer who was born in Puerto Rico but raised in New York. His musical influences comes from his exposure to many genres: Salsa, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Funk, R&B and Reggaeton. When you hear him sing, there so much that is felt from his melodic voice; I wish I knew all those technical words that would describe his range as a vocalist but I don’t and all I can tell you all is that when he sings you feel it. If he sings about a women doing him wrong you feel his pain, if he is sings about joy, you feel that joy.  He has the ability to take you into an emotional roller coaster ride. Don Sonero is not only a Salsa artist, but he is also a producer, song writer, and he recently discovered his love of acting. He has traveled the world as vocalist with different bands, such as Son Sublime, La Excelencia, Swing Sextet and has performed with many other Latin musical artists. Don Sonero has a CD name “La Verdera Escena” that is filled with beautifully performed songs that really showcase his unique singing style and the reason I am in total #fanlove.

Don Sonero is currently a member of the cast of “I Like It Like That – The Musical” at the Puerto Rican Traveling Theater in New York City his character’s name is Juan and he plays the elder son which is one of the main characters in the musical which starts renowned Salsa singer Tito Nieves.  The musical co-produced and co-written by David Maldano who was also the producer of Celia , El Cantate movie and several other musical productions.  Additional Producers include David Rodriquez, Juan Toro, Pregonest/Pritt, Cardenas Marketing Network – CMN. The rest of the cast includes: Shadia Fairuz, Rossmery Almonte, Ana Isabelle, Caridad De La Luz, Chachi Del Valle, Jospeh “Quique” Gonzalez, Angel Lopez, Nelson Gonzalez, Sofia Klimovsky, and Ysenia Santiago.

The first time I went to see the play my anticipation was through the roof.  I had some friends that had seen it and I had forbidden them from saying anything about the play as I wanted to be surprised. All that my friends were allowed to say was that , “ It was great and Wendy you are going to love it”.  I had read that the play was set in New York City’s El Barrio (Spanish Harlem)  and that the Salsa music of the 70s was going to be featured. Well,  I was beyond surprised and fell in #fanlove with the cast and their performances. I have since been back to see the play three times now, and just had to interview Don Sonero with my wanting to know as much as I could about him.

Let’s defined “Sonero” because lots of people can sing salsa but not everyone is a “Sonero”: An improvising lead singer in salsa music. He/she can improvise about anything but the “Sonero” must be able to follow the rhythm of whatever song is being played by the band at the time of improvising. It requires that the singer be quick in selecting lyrics that are being improvised to communicate whatever the singer wants and that he can keep up with the band’s rhythm at the same time. Great examples to me of Soneros are, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Victor Manuelle, and Cuban female singer, Albita.  They have the ability to improvise on the spot to whatever Salsa music the band is playing.  Very few artists can do it that well and Don Sonero has the ability to do that; hence his name “Don Sonero”.

I had the trill to be able to interview Don Sonero after one of his performances at the Puerto Rican Traveling Theater, and I must say I had such a surreal moment as an “interviewer/blogger”. I was in the middle of New York City doing what has become my passion and in a historic theater to the New York Latino community, with one of the most promising artist in the Latino music scene, and it just felt like we were both experiencing our dreams at the same time. Hope you all enjoy my chat with Don Sonero  he spoke about a new musical project that will be release soon, his introduction to music, and other things he would like to do in the future. Learn a bit more about Don Sonero and follow his journey going forward.

Don Sonero, thank you for sharing with WendyT Fan Love!

#fanlovetothemax #dreambigitsfree #wendytfanlove

Don Sonero and his fan

Don Sonero and his fan

Don Sonero

Don Sonero

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VICTOR MANUELLE AND FRIENDS AT RADIO CITY

Posted by wendytfanlove on October 16, 2016 in Fan Experience

All signs were saying Wendy you are going to see Victor Manuelle. As much as I tried to ignore it I just knew I was going to be there; I had to go see Victor Manuelle and Friends at Radio City Musical Hall in New York City. The signs were cruel, I would open my social media sites and postings about the concert were everywhere.  Several days before the actual concert I see a posting from George LaMond and one from Frankie Negron saying that they too were going to be performing at the concert it was just all too tempting as a fan; it was cruel the thought of not being there.

It was Friday,  October 14 the day of the concert and I am in my office when thoughts of my fan life start taking over. I was so trying to  ignore  my wanting to go to  the concert; but everything about me was saying, “go Wendy check out the tickets see what’s left”. Around 2:00 PM  I go into Ticketmaster and I found a ticket row AA orchestra 5 for a Professional Fan that is like dangling a bone in front of a dog.  I could not resist I bought the ticket and at 5:00 PM I left my office to NYC to see some of my favorites Salsa artists by myself. Life is too short to wait for the perfect moment or friends to do and go to places you want to go to; sometimes going solo is the best. I of course always meet lots of nice fellow fans; I was seating next to very interesting fans and I met up with one of my Marc Anthony road trip friends, I could not have been happier.

The first set of musicians started to take their place on stage and the audience immediately started clapping and as they are setting up I recognized one of them; Bobby Allende one of the best conga players/percussionists I know was leading the band. I know Bobby from when he was a member of Marc Anthony’s band and he had members of his own salsa band 8 Y Mas. When the band finished setting up George LaMond came on stage to sing and the fans started clapping and were so enjoying his performance, but I have to say we were left wanting more. The second act that performed was Frankie Negron, his energy is always special and they way he interacts with the fans is so special. Frankie is working on a new project and I just can’t wait to hear and see it all. After Frankie performed Dominican Salsero, Alex Matos came on stage and it was just beautiful so see him sing again. Alex Matos was born to sing Salsa he just takes over and all his happy with the world. The last performer to that came out to sing before Victor was legendary Puerto Rican Salsa artist, Ismael Miranda who was one of the first members of the Fania. Ismael comes on stage and he pretty much shows us how Salsa is done. He just represents everything that we love about the genre, it’s fun, emotional, and for sharing. DJ Alex Sensation was also entertaining the fans with his mixes before Victor Manuelle came on stage.

Then the moment arrives when “the man”  I could not resist seeing well over a month comes out with a beautiful tuxedo on looking thin; but oh so handsome and the fans go crazy as Victor Manuelle takes over his concert as the true Salsero that he is. I have seen Victor many times; my sister and I were front row the first time he had his first concert at MSG and I also took a picture with him earlier this year at The Maestro Cares Gala in  February. Victor sang his own classic songs and he also potpourri of other classic songs. One of the very special moments of the nights was when Victor paid respect to his father and advocated for Alzheimer decease awareness. I could not take pictures or a video of that moment as I would like every fan to experience that very special moment in person and plus I was too busy crying as it was so emotional for me. I so appreciate Victor Manuelle for sharing such intimate and emotional moments with us and I could not be more proud of this amazing Isabela, Puerto Rico son.

Though I had worked all day and decided at the last minute what my entire spirit wanted the last several weeks, my night was not over after Victor Manuelle got off stage, no the night had more beautiful surprises. After the concert a few fans decided to stay and wait for Victor and some of the other performers to come out of the venue. I got the chance to take pictures with Alex Matos, Ismael Miranda and the man who had my fan spirit working overtime Victor Manuelle. The first thing Victor did was he came over to me and kissed me. He just made my night by taking a picture with me, so sweet. They were all so sweet in sharing #fanlove with us, as a fan I was so happy with their humbleness and professionalism.

Hope you all enjoy the videos and pics I was able to take; I apologize for the quality but it’s hard trying to take videos and pics without using a flash because the venue would not allow it.

Thanks Angie, Ray, and Karen for sharing all this fan #fanlove with me!!!

Remember listen to  your spirit it has amazing surprises for you! #fanlovetothemax #wendytfanlove

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Laughing (Interview) With JOEY VEGA

Posted by wendytfanlove on September 22, 2016 in Interviews

Laughing with Joey Vega is basically what I did during my interview with the comedian. Joey Vega is a writer, actor and the comedian that opens for singer, Marc Anthony’s US concerts. I have known Joey since I started to travel to see Marc about 17 years ago. As much as I laugh when he is saying his jokes I also take the time to look at his audience; whether its a large arena with thousands of fans or at a local restaurant Joey Vega gives his audience the laughs they came to receive from him and then some. They get an actor that can transform into different personalities and take on different voices, accents, and mannerism. Watching Joey Vega performing is also like going home and sitting around joking with your family and friends; he has a quality about him that reminds us of home. Joey’s Latino audience gets it double when he does his jokes in Spanglish, it truly feels like a party that you get to share with people you don’t know but  because everyone gets the jokes we all get each other.

Before being a staff writer for the George Lopez Show several years ago the New York City raised comedian of Puerto Rican decent had already had a “first” as the first Latino comedian to have his own nationally syndicated comedy show in the US named “The Latin Connection”. Joey has acted in several TV shows and movies acting with award winning actors such as, Sally Fields, John Tuturro, and many others. Rounders, Row Your Boat. He also worked on Ryder, PI, An East Side Story, and Punchline with Tom Hanks. Joey’s show business resume is extensive it also includes working Chris Rock, Jennifer Lopez, and we as his fans are the beneficiaries of his comedic gift.

I met Joey for dinner at a local restaurant where we discussed his sold out coming show at The Comic Strip in New York (September, 23rd) , touring with Marc, a special project that he is currently working on, and lots more. Joey will also be performing on Salsa Cruise in October along with several other Salsa artists. As I said I laughed most of the time so get ready to see some silliness during my interview with Joey Vega hope you enjoy the video interview as as much as I did.

Joey thank you for being so sweet with me and making me laugh! #fanlovetothemax #wendytfanlove

Follow Joey on  his social media sites: http://www.joeyvega.com, Facebook: @comedianjoeyvega, Twitter: @joeyvegacomedy, Intagram: @comedianjoeyvega

 

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Erben Perez – Bass Player – CEO of Trista Records

Posted by wendytfanlove on September 2, 2016 in Interviews

Erben Perez is a bass guitar player and producer who has traveled the world touring with many musicians. For the last 24 years he has been touring as one of the members of my favorite band in the Universe, “Marc Anthony‘s Band” a.k.a Da Baddest Band (DBB) as old MarcAnthonyFans.com fan club members call them. I have had the pleasure of seeing Erben performing live for many years. Erben lives to make music and has made this fans extremely happy by being so humble like many of the other members of my favorite band; he always finds the time to show #fanlove to me.

Erben is currently doing double duty as he continues to tour with Marc Anthony  and  is the CEO of a record label. Erben and several partners which include Romani Rovayo and Hector Mestre have come together to create Trista Records, a new record label which aims to go old school and develop their artists in every way possible. Trista Records has the undeniable pleasure to have Don Felipe Muniz as one of the first artists to be signed to the label. Don Felipe is none other than iconic Salsa singer, Marc Anthony’s dad who wrote “El Ultimo Beso”, which Marc recorded. Trista Records has already released Don Felipe’s first single which is a duet with Salsa recording artist Tito Nieves. The single’s name  is “Mientras Duermo (While I Sleep)” which is a beautiful song that speaks of lost love; needless to say I am a huge Don Felipe Muniz fan. The single is currently available on all digital music outlets and the CD is scheduled to be out soon. The CD “Nuncas Es Tarde (It’s Never Too Late)”, will include a duet by father and son called “Deje De Amar (I Stopped Loving)” and the fan’s anticipation is off the roof; myself included. It so happens that Don Felipe Muniz will be performing  with his son Marc Anthony at Radio City Music Hall in New York City in August. It was recently announced that Marc Anthony signed his father to his artist management company, Magnus Media. At 80 years of age Don Felipe Muniz is living out his dreams and will be touring soon.

Trista Records has also signed Colombian singer Esteban Nieto; Nieto’s style is all pop with a beautiful Vellanato/Urban fusion that will have his fans singing and dancing. Esteban Nieto originally from Cartagena is already working on his up and coming CD and if it’s anything like some of his YouTube videos he already has a fan in me.

I caught up with Erben in his hometown of Perth Amboy, NJ and we chatted about how he got involved in the music business, about Trista Records, Don Felipe’s CD, and we reminisced a bit. I also got the chance to thank him for his son, M1nd Stat3 who was my first written interview (you can find it in the Interview tab). Please click on the videos below. I hope you all enjoy the interview with Erben Perez and continue to support him in his new business venture Trista Records.

Any artist interested in submitting their demos, videos, digital uploads for consideration  (all genres accepted) by Trista Records please email: Tristarecordlabel@gmail.com

Follow Trista Records at http://www.TristaRecords.com– Facebook: Trista Records, Instagram: @TristaRecords, Twitter: @TristaRecords

I can’t say it enough sometimes I can’t believe my own life to be able to interview some of my favorite musicians is me living my dreams; I sincerely hope you all get to live  your dreams. #fanlovetothemax  #wendytfanlove #dreambigitsfree 

NOTE: Several days after this interview took place I had the pleasure of meeting Don Felipe he kissed me and Marc Anthony also kissed me at the concert at Radio City…. Happy Fan…Dream Big Mi Gente!!! :

Erben at the Maestro Cares Gala in Cipriani Walls St. NYC 2016DSC_0029

Erben’s  musical idols and mentors, Ruben Rodriguez and Sal Cuevas

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Don Felipe, Tito Nieves, Hector Mestre, and Erben in the recording studio.

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Erben and Don Felipe Muniz

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Esteban Nieto – Trista Records’s new artist

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Erben in his Talking Buddah days (his old band), with Bill Clinton and Angel Fernandez – Erben Jean Rodriguez, William Duval and President Obama – Erben with Aarron Mclain

Erben with Leah Remini and Jennifer Lopez – Angel Fernandez, Ruben Blades, Marc Anthony, and Erben – Erben, Mario Guini, and the group Magic

DSC_0035 Erben and his grandson, he was adorable and was my security during the interview….thanks Papi!

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DJ EDDIE B. SWIFT – Fan Interview

Posted by wendytfanlove on August 20, 2016 in Interviews

When you grow up in the home of Hip-Hop, the Bronx it’s hard to resist the allured of what Hip-Hop makes you feel and when you mix that with being Latino; music is definitely part of your DNA. DJ Eddie B. Swift is all music 24 hours a day as one of the most sort after DJs he has acquired all the skills and knowledge that a NYC DJ represents.

As I often say, ” I am not musically trained but I know what I like”, there are so many things I like about DJ Eddie B. Swift I love how humble he is, I love how he is so willing to share some of his music knowledge, I love how he represents a true NYC DJ. Listening to DJ Eddie B. Swift for me is like reliving my youth. DJ Eddie B. Swift tours with legendary rap group Cypress Hills and also has a featured spot in group member B Real’s internet TV station http://www.berealtv.com.

DJ Eddie B. Swift and I met backstage at Barclays in Brooklyn several years ago when I was covering the WU Tang Clan’s reunion for Global Music Magazine; again one of those true “living my dreams moments” where DJ Eddie B. Swift was the host DJ for the night with MC Ramel. Needless to say I was on cloud nine as I am standing on stage with legendary NYC artists.

The definition of a NYC DJ for me is that DJ that takes you on a musical roller coaster ride where he is able to mix old school music with the new, where Hip-Hop, Latin music, House/Freestyle music, and last but not lease Reggae music. DJ Edde B. Swift takes is fans on the musical roller every time he performs.

I got the chance to interview DJ Eddie B. Swift several moths ago at the Ruff Ryder Club in the Bronx at the Global Music Magazine’s sponsored Sho Me What U Got Showcase. Please enjoy the videos below  which includes guest appearance by MC Ramel  where Eddie shares how he got started and more.

Follow DJ Eddie B.Swift on on http://www.brealtv.com, website: http://www.eddiebswift.com, Facebook: EddieBSwift, and Instagram: @eddiebswift. #fanlovetothemax 🙂

 

 

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Mario Guini – RioALuna

Posted by wendytfanlove on July 26, 2016 in Interviews

Mario Guini (Sebastian) is a guitarist that has performed all over the world as a member of Marc Anthony’s band, and with many other musicians.  This young man from Argentina is now in the pursuit of making his own mark with his passion for music as half of the duo RioALuna with Jackie Mendez! RioALuna, based out of Miami are on their way to change the musical landscape with their Country/Latin fusion musical style. They have been performing and capturing the attention of fans from all over.

I am so excited for all that Mario and Jackie are doing as I have been a fan of Mario for many years; I have seen him perform when he was part of the musical project Talking Buddha with Erben Perez.  There has never been a time when Mario has not greeted me with a smile and a hug. I love his energy on stage and I always look forward to his songs as I am a proud owner of one of his first EPs.

I got a chance to chat with Mario last month outside of the Starland Ballroom in Sayerville, NJ. Hope you all enjoy the video below.  Please follow @RioALuna on Intagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Be on the look out for RioALuna’s EP coming soon! #WendyTFanLove #fanlovetothemax

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Picture taken by me in 2015 at Nassau Colesuem.

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Vintage Mario memorabilia: I believe this is his first EP… love all these songs 🙂

 

 

 

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My Cinderella Night at The Maestro Cares Gala 2016

Posted by wendytfanlove on February 21, 2016 in Fan Experience

My Cinderella night at The Maestro Cares Foundation 3rd Annual Gala fan experience…Trying to figure out where to start and it’s a little daunting as I am trying to comprehend what all this fan love means to me and for Marc Anthony’s fans. As a kid I dreamed about being at glamorous events as any little girl who has ever watched Cinderella can attest to. You dream about the night’s event, the dress you will wear, the hair style you will have, the make-up and of course the shoes; what’s a glamorous event without amazing shinny and sparkly shoes. After all that is what saved Cinderella her shoe, right?

As I was getting ready for the Maestro Cares Gala I was thinking about what that fan experience would be like. Before I left the house my friend Toni and I (who happened to have extended her Marc Anthony weekend at my house as we had volunteered for Maestro Cares at Marc’s concerts at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ and The WesternBank Arena in Bridgeport, CT) said a prayer. While saying the prayer I asked God that I hoped that my purpose in going was not about “Marc only” but about my true intentions in supporting the foundation, networking a bit, being able to come back and write my fan experience for the fans who do not have the opportunities I have. Well here we go…

This was my second time attending the Maestro Cares Gala I attended in 2014 and as I walked towards Cipriani At Wall Street it was all very familiar. I remembered being seven years old and it had been about a month since we had moved to Brooklyn, NY from Puerto Rico and my uncle drove us through Wall St. I was fascinated with the tall buildings and the cobble stone streets. I asked my uncle what did people do in this area, what happened in the office buildings; and my uncle said, “Wildy (my family’s nickname for me ) they make money here, the world does not run without this place”. Just then I decided that when I grew up that Wall St is the area I was going to work in. And as God would have it, my first “real job” while in college was in the Wall Street area at 55 Water St, for a financial institution. Then several years later my office moved to “45 Wall St”. So many beautiful memories overcame me while walking to the Gala I was overwhelmed with nostalgia as my career dreams were lived on those streets as a young adult and later as a mom. I was working at 45 Wall St when 9/11 happened; needless to say my life changed forever.

All those nostalgic feelings brought me to my current reality that of “Vivir Mi Vida/ Living My Life” as Marc Anthony’s songs says; living my life as well as my fan life with dreams come true. I entered, the place I could already feel the feeling of anticipation. I checked my coat, got my table information and proceeded to the cocktail area. I immediately spotted some familiar faces and  I started to greet friends and acquaintances; most of them were people from the foundation that assist with the volunteers and those that work for CMN Events. My attention soon turned to my phone as I needed to make sure that it be charged as I knew that I would need to take photos and videos (technology an amazing thing). I was lucky to find a room where I was able to charge my phone.  Soon after I made it to my seat and was glad to find that I was seated next to Maria whom I had sat with the year before last when I attended first Gala. Everyone at my table was so nice, fun we all had a great time chatting, and networking. Seated at my table was a Dominican painter who had donated one of his paintings to be auctioned off that evening, which went for $15,000. There were many items auctioned off and lots of money raised by many generous supporters. I lost my bid for the front row tickets at Foxwoods, not surprised though :).

Enrique Santos came on stage to welcome us and introduce Whoopy Goldberg who was co-presenter and the evening became all about the reason we were all there for; our support of the foundation. Marc Anthony and Mr. Henry Cardenas, CEO of Cardenas Marketing Network (CMN), the founders of the foundations came on stage and spoke about all the progress the foundation is doing. We also had a surprise in that they brought two of the children that live in the orphanages the foundations supports. Their testimony was sad as they spoke about being abandoned by their parents but their speech was also heartfelt and filled with optimism as a result of the foundation’s work in improving their living conditions and the education provided. It was great to see these young people speak with such eloquence and resolve knowing that their life is only going to get better because of The Maestro Cares Foundation supporters. It was a very proud feeling for me having coordinated volunteers from all over the US for the foundation and also my work as a volunteer and supporter. All of the pain we feel while standing up 4 to 5 hours collecting donations is all worth it; when you hear about all the difference that the foundation is making in these children’s lives hence the foundation’s statement, “CHANGING LIVES, BUILDING DREAMS”. As a Marc Anthony fan who from the minute that I  heard that Marc had a foundation, I immediately knew that his fans would be part of it in every way possible. I am proud to say I am one of those fans.

Juan Louis Guerra was scheduled to attend but he had difficulty flying in because of the snow storm up north; so Marc accepted his award for him and Mr. Guerra expressed his gratitude for being the Community Hero Award recipient via a short video that was presented. Mr. Guerra’s foundation supports children that are burn victims as well as senior care facilities. President and CEO of Trackfone Wireless Inc., F.J. Pollak was presented with the Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility Award. Trackfone and affiliates are the providers of no contracts cellular service.

The evening’s highlight for me was seeing the 42nd United States President, Bill Clinton, who received the Global Humanitarian Award for his work a founder of The Clinton Foundation. The Clinton Foundation is dedicated to improving health care, strengthening economies, promoting children’s health, and also have many other initiative around the world including serving those living with HIV/AIDS. Former President Clinton spoke about the progress his foundation has made through the world. He expressed how he knows that the Maestro Cares Foundation in several more years will also  have that type of impact worldwide. I was all excited with Clinton as history was my favorite subject in school, learning about presidents, and their contributions to the countries they serve has always been an interest of mine.  To be in the presence of an “actual living ex-president of the United States” was a thrill for me.

The night was filled with many surprises, J. Alvarez one of the most famous Latin Urban artists stop by my table and took my phone to take selfie with me; he was totally adorable. I have seen him perform live at Stage 48 and at MSG. Salsa artist Victor Manuelle was also at the Gala and I got the chance to take a picture with him and share a fan experience I had with him. When Victor headlined his first show at MSG, I was seated front row and I was able to give  him the first bouquet of flowers he received at MSG. He was sweet and said, “WOW all the memories you are just giving me right now”. The evening was filled with lots of celebrities, artists, sport figures such as Carlos Beltran and business people such as Goya’s CEO, Bob Unanue who for some reason he and I always get a chance to chat a bit.

The evening culminated with Marc Anthony and his Band performing; now you know what Professional Fans do; we live to be front row that is always our ultimate goal. I was able to share my front row experience with the Mari Twins and Evelyn. Marc sang several songs glad to say that as predicted by me Marc sang Hotel California (have been around too long and can pretty much predict what he will sing depending on the venue and audience in attendance, crazy but true) which is one of my favorite songs, needless to say I was so happy. Gente De Zona also came on stage to performed with Marc, “La Gozadera”; again impressed with their vocal powers. It never seizes to amaze me how great Marc Anthony’s band members are, they just know how to play anything its awesome musician mastery that I get to experience every time they perform. I could never thank them enough for all the joy they give me as a fan.

My last and ultimate favorite surprise of the evening was seeing and sharing a bit with “Mikey”, who is a former Marc Anthony crew member and one of Marc’s best friends. But to me as a fan Mikey is one of my favorites because he always has a smile on and from time to time Mikey would get on stage to play the guitar and Marc would let him take over the stage as if he was the headliner.  Marc and Mikey were always so funny together; it was so much fun to watch their camaraderie. I just miss Mikey on tour as he was always part of my fun fan experience; I was so happy to see him again.

There was a time when Marc would call his fans “Familia” when he had his first “official” fan club, that is what we were. So when we see old band members or crew members we think of them as family too. For those of us who are still around from that era, those were fun times and when we see each other we still reminisce about those days. I will always be grateful to Marc for my amazing fan life and all the friends I have made because of him, God Bless him and his Band/Crew Always!

I am so grateful for another Cinderella like night for me; you work, you prepare, you pray, and miracles happen…that is all it takes; I know its easier said than done but you all know what I mean. #lovemyfanlife 🙂

Please enjoy my fan love experience via the pictures and videos below. #fanlovetothemax #wendytfanlove 🙂

DSC_0055Front row, fan dream come true 🙂 DSC_0047DSC_0048DSC_0046

DSC_0025DSC_0026Vocalist: William,Alexandra,JeanDSC_0028Mario guitaris, Jessie on drums

DSC_0039Eric on congas

DSC_0029ErbenDSC_0031Eddie, Ozzie, Dan, new guy?DSC_0032Ricky GDSC_0035Angel hands up, Curtis,Alex,WilliamDSC_0036DSC_0037Juanito trowing kisses DSC_0038Juanito

MCGala 2016 JAlvarez and meJ Alvarez

MC Gala Victor and me MC Gala 2016 Evelyn and I

Victor Manuelle/Evelyn and me

DSC_0074Luis OrtizDSC_0070Enrique Santos

MC Gala 2016 hope signMaira, and Evelyn, MC Hope sign

DSC_0062Mikey my biggest surprise of  the night#fanlove

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Marc Anthony Back Home At MSG

Posted by wendytfanlove on February 8, 2016 in Fan Experience

My favorite singer in the Universe returned home to Madison Square Garden and his fans and I in particular could not have been happier. The expectations were high I must admit; we are talking “MARC ANTHONY AT THE GARDEN”. We received so much more than expected.

More in that you could feel his honesty in his love for his New York fans which we totally expected but being that we had not felt it at The Garden in a long time; it just felt like it was all new and something like a warm blanket on a winter day. I know, I know I have used that “warm blanket on a winter day” for Marc before but that is how it feels to me. I was even quoted in the Phoenix New Times using that phrase in 2002 by writer, Jimmy Magarhern (“Whoever has not had a chance to see Marc in person is missing out on a brilliant interpreter of emotions,” gushes Wendy T., a Puerto Rico-born woman who grew up listening to her grandmother’s Hector Lavoe and Tito Puente records, as well as the work of Marco Antonio Muniz, the Mexican singer Anthony’s musician-father named him after. “It can only be compared to a warm blanket on a cold winter day. He just covers you with this energy that makes you feel warm and cozy all over. When he is on stage, he walks on air — it’s not him, it’s like he has angels moving him from side to side, up and down. It’s incredible. I know he gets goose bumps all over, I can feel it.”). 

Marc was everything, his voice was impeccable, his interaction with the fans was warm and genuine, he made comical faces, he was funny, he was silly, and just totally adorable. I was so close to the stage that the fans next me were reaching out their hands and Marc would lean over to touch them. Someone asked me. “Why are you so calm and not reaching out”, I smiled and said, “It’s OK”. If they only knew how I really felt, see at this point of my fan life I don’t need another touch from Marc, I don’t need a meet and greet, I don’t need another autograph picture thank God I have lived those experiences several times already. I just love going to the concerts seating as close as possible to him and feeling all that energy that he to gives us with his songs, and his silliness on stage. I love closing my eyes and just feeling his voice live; its such a spiritual experience for me. I am not denying that given the opportunity to meet with him again that I would turn it down, hell no; but what I am saying is that I know longer want it, its OK let other fans have that amazing feeling of meeting  him. Now the opportunity to have a true conversation, yes that I dream about every time I see him and I wonder what would we chat about, love, politics, what, and will I be allowed to curse during our chat? 🙂

I had the amazing opportunity to share with a fellow fan who is handicap and the experience of seeing her face glowing with excitement of sharing fanlove with me was just wonderful; thank you Natalie! I can’t thank Marc enough for these moments that I get to live as a fan.

Some of us once again had the opportunity to volunteer for Marc’s foundation Maestro Cares. Love sharing with some amazing New York volunteers and I have to say that giving back is the best feeling. We were able to distribute Maestro Cares information and the fans were generous in their purchase of the Maestro Cares t-shirts as all proceeds were going to the foundation. Please look out for Maestro Cares volunteers at Prudential Center (02/13) and Western Bank Arena (02/14). If you would like to donate please go to http://www.maestrocares.org. In addition the Maestro Cares Foundation Gala will take place Tuesday, February 16th at Cirpriani’s on Wall St, NYC you still have a chance to purchase your ticket go to the site for further details.

Marc Anthony expressed  how proud he is of being born in New York and being Puerto Rican; he expressed it with such eloquence that only true Latino New Yorkers could fully appreciate; yea he cursed and we loved it. Nothing like the F word to make you feel at home; if you are raised in NYC you get it 🙂 . Marc also got a bit political when he said F### Donald Trump. The crowd went crazy clapping and hollering; it was beautiful to see Marc not holding back about how he really feels. Having said that I wish he would stop hinting about his dislike for La India every time he sings Vivir Lo Nuestro; I just don’t get why spoil the energy by making such a personal comment every time he sings the song. Whatever personal beef he has with her must be big; he has been doing it going on two years now; he only entices the curiosity as to what really happened between them; guess we will have to wait for one of them to write a book one of these days.

There were so many beautiful moments; the violin solo with Eddie Venegas; the drum solo with Marc and Jessie Caraballo. Marc Anthony’s Band and his crew are all about the fans, we can’t thank them enough for all that they give us fans. Comedian, Joey Vega never fails in making every fan laugh and coming off the stage to greet them and sharing fanlove. These are the magical moments that we fans live for to have your favorite singer in your hometown where they started their dreams of being where they are; is a beautiful thing for us fans. Marc is such an inspiration to the Latino community not only because of his musical legacy and but also as a business mogul. We are all looking forward to what is coming from his entertainment/marketing management company, Magnus Meida, LLC . As he says, ” I am living proof that anything is possible”.

Please watch the video below till the end so that you can see Marc expressing himself as to how happy he is about being “home”.

#fanloveothemax is an understatement as to how I feel about him…Thank you Marc Anthony for changing my life!

DSC_0081 DSC_0102 DSC_0086 DSC_0083

 

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2016 Latin Billboard Nominees

Posted by wendytfanlove on February 3, 2016 in News

Romeo Santos does it again with the most nominations for the 2016 Latin Billboard Awards. Forget about the “King Stays King” he will “Forever Be King”. Romeo’s has been nominated for the following categories for artist of the year, tour of the year, songwriter of the year and producer of the year, among other categories. His song category nods include Hot Latin Song of the year for “Propuesta Indecente,” which has spent a record 125 weeks on the top 10 of Billboard’s Hot Latin Song chart. 

The rest of the most nominated artists are: Enrique Isgesias and my favorite Nicky  Jam with 11 nominations each. J Balvin has eight nominations; Juan Gabiel, Mana, Areial Cacmacho y Los Plebes del Rancho have seven nominations each. My ultimate favorite Marc Anthony has six nominations along with, Ricky Martin, Banda Sinaloense MS de Sergio Lizarraga, and Julion Alvarez y Su Norteño Banda.

Award show will be telecast April 28,2016 on Telemundo…they have already announce Nicky Jam will be a presenter 🙂

Find the full list of finalists below with my highlighted favorites and predictions:

ARTIST CATEGORIES

Artist of the Year

Enrique Iglesias
Juan Gabriel
Nicky Jam
Romeo Santos
Artist of the Year, New:

Ariel Camacho y Los Plebes del Rancho
Banda Clave Nueva de Max Peraza
La Séptima Banda
Maluma

Tour of the Year

Enrique Iglesias & Pitbull
Juan Gabriel
Ricardo Arjona
Romeo Santos

Social Artist of the Year

Enrique Iglesias
Prince Royce
Romeo Santos
Shakira
Crossover Artist of the Year

Ed Sheeran
Justin Bieber
OMI
The Weeknd

SONG CATEGORIES

Hot Latin Song of the Year

Ariel Camacho y Los Plebes del Rancho “Te Metiste”
J Balvin “Ginza”
Nicky Jam & Enrique Iglesias “El Perdón”
Romeo Santos “Propuesta Indecente”

Hot Latin Song of the Year, Vocal Event

Farruko Feat. Shaggy & Nicky Jam “Sunset”
Gente de Zona Feat. Marc Anthony “La Gozadera”
Maná Feat. Shakira “Mi Verdad”
Nicky Jam & Enrique Iglesias “El Perdón”

Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year, Male

Enrique Iglesias
J. Balvin
Nicky Jam
Romeo Santos

Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year, Female

Jennifer Lopez
Natalia Jiménez
Natti Natasha
Shakira

Hot Latin Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Ariel Camacho y Los Plebes del Rancho
Banda Sinaloense MS de Sergio Lizárraga
Calibre 50
Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda

Hot Latin Songs Label of the Year

DEL
Remex
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment

Hot Latin Songs Imprint of the Year

Capitol Latin
DEL
Fonovisa
Sony Music Latin

Airplay Song of the Year

J Balvin “Ginza”
Nicky Jam & Enrique Iglesias “El Perdón”
Romeo Santos “Hilito”
Zion & Lennox “Pierdo La Cabeza”

Airplay Label of the Year

DEL
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment
Warner Latina

Airplay Imprint of the Year

Capitol Latin
Disa
Fonovisa
Sony Music Latin

Digital Song of the Year

Gente de Zona Feat. Marc Anthony “La Gozadera”
J Balvin “Ay Vamos”
J Balvin “Ginza”
Nicky Jam & Enrique Iglesias “El Perdón”

Streaming Song of the Year

Banda Sinaloense MS de Sergio Lizárraga “Háblame de Ti”
Banda Sinaloense MS de Sergio Lizárraga “Mi Razón de Ser”
J Balvin “Ay Vamos”
Nicky Jam & Enrique Iglesias “El Perdón”

ALBUM CATEGORIES

Top Latin Album of the Year

Gerardo Ortiz “Hoy Más Fuerte”
Juan Gabriel “Los Dúo”
Maná “Cama Incendiada”
Ricky Martin “A Quien Quiera Escuchar”

Top Latin Albums Artist of the Year, Male

Gerardo Ortiz
Joan Sebastian
Juan Gabriel
Ricky Martin

Top Latin Albums Artist of the Year, Female

Ana Gabriel
Chiquis Rivera
Natalia Jiménez
Selena

Top Latin Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Ariel Camacho y Los Plebes del Rancho
Calibre 50
Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda
Maná

Top Latin Albums Label of the Year

Columbia
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment
Warner Latina

Top Latin Albums Imprint of the Year

Disa
Fonovisa
Musart
Sony Music Latin

LATIN POP CATEGORIES

Latin Pop Song of the Year

Christian Daniel “Ahora Que Te Vas”
Juanes “Juntos”
Maná Feat. Shakira “Mi Verdad”
Ricky Martin Feat. Yotuel “La Mordidita”

Latin Pop Songs Artist of the Year, Solo

Christian Daniel
Enrique Iglesias
Juanes
Ricky Martin

Latin Pop Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Chino & Nacho
Ha*Ash
Jesse & Joy
Mana

Latin Pop Airplay Label of the Year

Sony Music Latin
Summa
Universal Music Latin Entertainment
Warner Latina
Latin Pop Airplay Imprint of the Year

Capitol Latin
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latino
Warner Latina

Latin Pop Album of the Year

Juan Gabriel “Los Dúo”
Juan Gabriel “Mis Número 1 … 40 Aniversario”
Maná “Cama Incendiada”
Ricky Martin “A Quien Quiera Escuchar”

Latin Pop Albums Artist of the Year, Solo

Juan Gabriel
Marco Antonio Solís
Ricky Martin
Selena

Latin Pop Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Grupo Nueva Vida
Il Divo
Jesse & Joy
Maná

Latin Pop Albums Label of the Year

Columbia
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment
Warner Latina

Latin Pop Albums Imprint of the Year

Fonovisa
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latino
Warner Latina

TROPICAL CATEGORIES

Tropical Song of the Year

Gente de Zona Feat. Marc Anthony “La Gozadera”
Romeo Santos “Hilito”
Romeo Santos Feat. Marc Anthony “Yo También”
Victor Manuelle “No Quería Engañarte”

Tropical Songs Artist of the Year, Solo

Marc Anthony
Prince Royce
Romeo Santos
Victor Manuelle

Tropical Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

ChocQuibTown (some them in concert twice in 2015 amazing)
Gente de Zona (but GDZ is going to take it)
Grupo Manía
Ilegales

Tropical Songs Airplay Label of the Year

Pina
Sony Music Latin
Top Stop
Universal Music Latin Entertainment

Tropical Songs Airplay Imprint of the Year

Kiyavi
Pina
Sony Music Latin
Top Stop

Tropical Album of the Year

Aventura “Sólo Para Mujeres”
Buena Vista Social Club “Lost and Found”
Gilberto Santa Rosa “Necesito Un Bolero”
Victor Manuelle “Que Suenen Los Tambores”

Tropical Albums Artist of the Year, Solo

Gilberto Santa Rosa
Marc Anthony
Romeo Santos
Victor Manuelle

Tropical Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Aventura
Buena Vista Social Club
El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico
Pirulo y La Tribu

Tropical Albums Label of the Year

Planet Records
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment
Warner Bros.

Tropical Albums Imprint of the Year

Kiyavi
Premium Latin
Sony Music Latin
Top Stop

REGIONAL MEXICAN CATEGORIES

Regional Mexican Song of the Year

Ariel Camacho y Los Plebes del Rancho “Te Metiste”
Banda Clave Nueva de Max Peraza “Cuál Adiós”
Banda Sinaloense MS de Sergio Lizárraga “Háblame de Ti”
Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda “El Amor de Su Vida”

Regional Mexican Songs Artist of the Year, Solo

El Komander
Gerardo Ortiz
Remmy Valenzuela
Roberto Tapia

Regional Mexican Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Ariel Camacho y Los Plebes del Rancho
Banda Sinaloense MS de Sergio Lizárraga
Calibre 50
Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda

Regional Mexican Airplay Label of the Year

DEL
Remex
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment

Regional Mexican Airplay Imprint of the Year

DEL
Disa
Fonovisa
Remex

Regional Mexican Album of the Year

Calibre 50 “Lo Mejor De…”
Gerardo Ortiz “Hoy Más Fuerte”
Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda “El Aferrado”
Various “Las Bandas Románticas de América 2015”

Regional Mexican Albums Artist of the Year, Solo

Chiquis Rivera
Gerardo Ortiz
Joan Sebastian
Vicente Fernández

Regional Mexican Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Ariel Camacho y Los Plebes del Rancho
Banda Sinaloense MS de Sergio Lizárraga
Calibre 50
Julión Álvarez y Su Norteño Banda

Regional Mexican Albums Label of the Year

Lizos
Remex
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment

Regional Mexican Albums Imprint of the Year

DEL
Disa
Fonovisa
Musart

LATIN RHYTHM CATEGORIES

Latin Rhythm Song of the Year

J Balvin “Ginza”
Maluma “Borro Cassette”
Nicky Jam & Enrique Iglesias “El Perdón”
Zion & Lennox “Pierdo La Cabeza”

Latin Rhythm Songs Artist of the Year, Solo

Daddy Yankee
Farruko
J Balvin
Nicky Jam

Latin Rhythm Songs Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Alexis & Fido
Baby Rasta & Gringo
Plan B
Zion & Lennox

Latin Rhythm Airplay Label of the Year

Baby
Pina
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment

Latin Rhythm Airplay Imprint of the Year

Capitol Latin
Melodías de Oro
Pina
Sony Music Latin

Latin Rhythm Album of the Year

Don Omar “Last Don ll”
Pitbull “Dale”
Tony Dize “La Melodía de la Calle, 3rd Season”
Yandel “Legacy: De Líder a Leyenda Tour”

Latin Rhythm Albums Artist of the Year, Solo

Don Omar
Farruko
Pitbull
Yandel

Latin Rhythm Albums Artist of the Year, Duo or Group

Baby Rasta & Gringo
Kinto Sol
Plan B
Wisin & Yandel

Latin Rhythm Albums Label of the Year

Cinq
La Industria
Sony Music Latin
Universal Music Latin Entertainment

Latin Rhythm Albums Imprint of the Year

Machete
Mr. 305/Famous Artist
Pina
Sony Music Latin

WRITERS/PRODUCERS/PUBLISHERS CATEGORIES

Songwriter of the Year

Anthony “Romeo” Santos
Horacio Palencia Cisneros
Nick “Nicky Jam” Rivera Caminero
Sergio Mercado

Publisher of the Year

Mayimba Music, Inc., ASCAP
Palabras De Romeo, ASCAP
Sony/ATV Discos Music Publishing LLC, BMI
Universal – Música Unica Publishing, BMI

Publishing Corporation of the Year

El Productions LLC
Sony/ATV Music
Universal Music
Warner/Chappell Music

Producer of the Year

Anthony “Romeo” Santos
Jesús Jaime González Terrazas
Jesús Tirado Castañeda
Saga WhiteBlack

Romeo Santos

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