American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music

2011-03-27T20:16:39Z

The Sacramento Public Library, located at 828 I Street, will host an exhibition by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES). The exhibition titled “American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music” highlights the contributions of Latinos in American music and will be on exhibition from May 25 to August 7, 2011.

American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music is a creation by Experience Music Project (EMP) and organized for travel by SITES. The exhibition, its national tour and related programs are made possible by Ford Motor Company Fund.

A luncheon preview event was held at the Sacramento Public Library on Thursday to introduce the exhibition. Representatives from SITES, Sacramento Public Library, Ford, Congresswoman Doris Matsui and other community leaders were on hand to introduce the exhibit partake in the festivities.

The Smithsonian traveling exhibition highlights the musical contribution of Latinos from the 1940s to present. The individual creativity of stars such as Tito Puente, Ritchie Valens, Celia Cruz, Selena, Carlos Santana and many others are highlighted.

The exhibition is a collaborative effort by the SITES, the Experience Music Project (EMP) and Ford Motor Company. This exhibition was developed by the Experience Music Project and SITES. The Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic division of Ford Motor Company makes this exhibition possible and will be on tour for the next 4 years.

The exhibition will be free for viewing at the Central Library. The exhibit will visit San Francisco after its stay in Sacramento. Detroit, Dallas, Chicago, Charlotte, Los Angeles and Kansas City are also part of the tour.

American Sabor highlights the innovations in various musical genres by Latinos. Five major centers of Latino popular music production; Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Antonio, New York and Miami are also highlighted. A website complements the exhibition and was recently completed.

Sabor in English means taste, savor or flavor and is commonly used to describe good music. If you listen to Santana’s Oye Como Va, it’s the first spoken word uttered as the song starts. I’ve always enjoyed that song and it was the first thing that came to mind when I heard about this exhibit. That particular song, in several variations, has been around since the 1940s and not all versions start the same way.

At the luncheon I had the opportunity to speak with Lynn M. Quigley, Manager, Community Relations for Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. I asked for information on her involvement and that of the Ford Motor Company in the American Sabor exhibit.

Lynn started by saying, “The Ford Motor Company Fund is the national sponsor of American Sabor which is going to be visiting 12 cities around the country. It’s an exhibition that looks at the impact of contributions from Latino musicians in post World War II and five cities in particular; New York, Miami, San Antonio, San Francisco and L.A. The exhibition has panels that look at each of those cities and what was going on in those cities at the time.”

She continued, “We have a fully interactive web site which we’re going to demonstrate here today. It just launched yesterday.” Lynn went on to talk about other aspects of the exhibition. She noted that some interesting programming will also take place at the library such as having performers during certain hours on certain days. A dance floor will also be integral part of the exhibit. I couldn’t help but take note that something like that can be happening at the library, but it is.

I asked if the venue was meant for adults, children or both. Lynn went on to say, “It’s really family related for all age levels. There’s an education section on the website that has teacher guides and lesson plans. There’s a lot to it.” She went on to say that there’s also a Music Mixer on site to experiment with the different sounds made by instruments, “That’s something kids will like as well.” Lynn said.

“It’s almost like this music just makes you want to move. I don’t care what your age is. When we were setting up the tables we were kind of dancing around a little. The exhibit opens May 25 and runs until August 7.” Lynn said. I mentioned that we have Concerts in the Park going on around the same time period as the exhibition at Cesar Chavez Plaza and maybe the exhibition can be promoted there as well. We talked a little about the possibilities.

Lynn ended up by saying, “At Ford we really see the arts as a powerful tool to enrich people’s lives and to promote cross cultural exchange of community. Some exhibitions are more fun than others; this one you’ll see is a lot of fun. Another thing you can do is share your stories so people are encouraged to share their own stories about Latino music.”

Another person I had the pleasure to talk to was Evelyn Figueroa, Project Director of the SITES. Again, I asked about her involvement in the exhibit. She started by saying, “Today we are going to present the educational interactive website that we developed along with the exhibit and it was launched yesterday. You’ll get a taste of this key piece of the project. It talks about the content of the project and gives a lot of information in terms of the music, its history and the musicians.”

Evelyn continued to speak about the web site content, “It encourages visitors to participate. It has a section called ‘Share Your Story’ and it’s for the community to interact. It contains instructions that specifically guide the visitor through the steps to write their story and share. They can share videos, photographs or information they’re willing to share and that would be posted on the website for the public to see and learn more.”

We talked about the generational gaps of music but also talked about the commonalities. Evelyn indicated that the website will show some of the connections between the older and newer musical traditions and genres.

Discussing Latino influences Evelyn said, “Ritchie Valens was the first rock star and influenced the Beatles. People think that the Beatles had an influence on everybody but this Mexican-American from Los Angeles had a big influence on the Beatles. If you listen to the early Beatles they had Ritchie Valens rhythms.” Evelyn Figueroa was very passionate as she talked about Latino inspired music. “The new generation needs to know that and that we have been in the popular music tradition since the beginning. From the ‘tejano’ music in Texas where musicians came across the border and gathered at the small cantinas to sing and compose to today with hip-hop guys dancing in the streets, Latino music has been there.”

Besides the website a blog is available for sharing. Evelyn also pointed out that a radio station is available where the public can listen to music from a wide variety genres and different music from different time periods.

Another interesting section on their website includes a mixer Evelyn said, “We also include the ‘Sabor Mixer’ a section that can be used to compose. You can play with it and would love your feedback.” Evelyn has been very involved in the conceptualization of the website and came across as being very enthusiastic and proud of the site. She went on to note that the website will be up and running during the exhibit and well beyond it as well.

Evelyn conveyed that this exhibit is a smaller version of an exhibit prepared in 2005 by a Seattle music project. The project was a collaboration between the Experience Music Project and the University of Washington. The exhibit was downsized in order for it to become a traveling exhibit and provide a more flexible format.

I asked Evelyn about the exhibit being held at a library and how the music would fit in, she said “Latino music is extremely rich on rhythms and it’s not music that is for contemplation, it’s for listening and dancing. It’s music that moves your soul to dance and if you keep the volume too low then it doesn’t do much.”

As we spoke about the actual exhibit Evelyn indicated that an original 1960 jukebox will be part of the exhibit. The jukebox has been reprogrammed to function on a digital system. A dance floor will be created as dance is an integral part of Latino music. We talked about how music and dance are a major part of Latino celebrations starting with baptisms, quinceñeras, weddings and parties of all kinds.

“Music is simply the soul of the people,” Evelyn said as she quoted the Cuban poet José Marti, “He said ‘Music is the soul of the people.’ Music is a neutralizer, music has no boundaries it crosses borders, it crosses races and it crosses social status.”

As the luncheon started Rivkah Sass, Director, Sacramento Public Library welcomed everyone in attendance and said a few words about the exhibit. She also recognized Smithsonian, Ford and Sacramento Library representatives. Anna Cohn, Director, SITES followed and also recognized other dignitaries at the luncheon.

Ms. Cohn introduced Congresswoman and Smithsonian Regent Doris Matsui. “This is very exciting,” Matsui said as she thanked those in attendance and continued, “I want to thank the Ford Motor Company for being such a dedicated sponsor and having that special commitment. I’d also like to thank the Sacramento Public Library for hosting American Sabor. We appreciate everything you’re doing. I’d like to thank all of you for joining us today in this windy, rainy day and I just want to make an announcement that the levees are fine.” As she said this the audience laughed.

Matsui continued saying the levees were fine, nothing was broken and things were under control. “Thank goodness the system operates the way it should. The Yolo Bypass is working so I just have to say everything works and it’s reassuring.” Matsui said eliciting more laughter.

“American Sabor allows us to learn more about, and to celebrate the long lasting impact and contributions that Latinos have made to our society.” Matsui said as she talked about the exhibit. “It helps tell a story of Latinos in America through music, song and dance and in doing so tell the American story.” Matsui said.

Congresswoman Matsui has been involved as a Smithsonian Regent since 2007 and noted that it’s great to see the Smithsonian bring their resources to the community via exhibits such as American Sabor.

“I’m happy that once again the Smithsonian has chosen our community to launch another exhibit and I love the fact that we’re first, San Francisco will be jealous. Sacramento has a lot offer. I’ve always believed that one of its strengths is our diversity, and our diversity gives us strength.” said Matsui.

As the audience listened Matsui continued to talk about the exhibit. “It will showcase the accomplishments of the Latino community from important events in the arts to the strength of their culture and it is a part of our American history and I’m positive this will bring tremendous success and with your support American Sabor will help us celebrate Latino influences here in Sacramento.”

The last speaker during the luncheon was Lynn Quigley of the Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. She started off by saying, “It’s my pleasure to be here with you to celebrate Latino achievements and the influence of Latino music in American popular culture. Our partnership with SITES expands many years and we’re proud to partner with them once more on American Sabor. I’d like to thank the Sacramento Public Library for hosting the launch of this 12 city tour and for all their work planning the exhibitions.”

Lynn continued to enthusiastically thank all involved in this exhibit. “American Sabor is a project all of us at Ford are really excited about.” Lynn said and emphasized the commitment of Ford to cultural community events such as this one. A video was shown highlighting Ford’s commitment to the Hispanic community and their work with educational institutions and the many ethnic communities in our country.

Lynn ended by saying, “I’d like to share something with you that we are really proud of one of the many components of the American Sabor initiative, its website. With American Sabor we knew we had a great opportunity to reach a wide audience especially since the exhibition’s subject was music something that everyone can relate to.” Lynn went on to indicate that the website will allow participation outside of the exhibit and bring it to communities everywhere.

Ms. Quigley guided the luncheon guests the opportunity to experience some of the website features. A glimpse of the American Sabor’s personal experience through the website shows the history and influences of Latino music in the U.S. Biographies of over 80 Latino musicians from the 1930’s to present are available for exploration as are the many genres of Latino music from East L.A. Punk to Reggaetón and hip-hop.

Educational materials are also available for teachers to download and use in the classroom. A jukebox, mixer and Radio Sabor are other features available on the website. She ended by saying “I’ve saved this section for the last because I’m going to ask you a favor. This is the section of the site for stories from the public, from you. Now I’m going to ask you to tell us your personal story about Latino music. Your story can be about a great concert you saw or when you learned to dance salsa.” Lynn tried to emphasize that web interaction and sharing music stories can bring satisfaction to readers and viewers.

Although interaction is solicited Lynn went on to say that they’re very protective of email addresses and no spam would be tolerated. At this point guests were able to enjoy their lunch and talk about American Sabor and other things as they enjoyed the company and music playing over the sound system.

This exhibition will run during the summer months giving families the opportunity not only to enjoy the exhibit but also give them the opportunity to enjoy the Sacramento Public Library and all the resources it offers. As will most libraries the Sacramento Library offers community information with much material available regarding services provided and other community events.

Now you can read a book, enjoy entertainment and music at your public Library. Enjoy the exhibit and follow it to its second stop in San Francisco.

A. B. Quintanilla and Kumbia All-Starz to perform in Sacramento this weekend

2009-07-24T00:27:10Z

It's a good year, so far, for Abraham Quintanilla III, known to many as "A.B." Quintanilla. This 45-year-old entertainer was heavily embroiled in a nasty court battle that dragged on for years until finally winning back the Kumbia Kings this year. This victory came after the loss of a long-time friendship with Cruz Martinez, much negative media buzz, and a hefty legal price tag. At last, he can put it all behind him and concentrate on his current band, Kumbia All‑Starz.

Many know Quintanilla first as the brother of legendary Queen of Tex-Mex, Selena Quintanilla, who was murdered in 1995. After her untimely death, Quintanilla took a four-year hiatus from his career.

When he emerged in 1999, with newly formed band Kumbia Kings, it was clear that he was going to push the bar to a new level. Kumbia Kings erupted into the scene with a trademark style of fusing cumbia with rap. It was a hit. Was it any surprise? It was Quintanilla who was writing, co-writing and producing the music of Selena, an artist whose life story gave J.Lo her big break in the world of acting. (Jennifer Lopez portrayed her in the biographic movie Selena.) It was Quintanilla who had dedicated his life's work to creating hit songs.

When Quintanilla left Kumbia Kings in 2007 due to rumors of money mishandling and disagreements with bandmate Cruz Martinez, his fans were in shock. Martinez, who had been Quintanilla's righthand man since the group's inception, retained rights to the group name. This scandal caused great tension for Quintanilla and was the start of the legal battles to recover the Kumbia Kings. Those who followed Quintanilla's career were certain this was the beginning of something new. Others feared Quintanilla would walk away from it all. He didn't.

That same year, Quintanilla re-emerged as leader of his newly formed group, Kumbia All-Starz. Chris Perez, husband of the late Selena, joined the band. His fan base quickly followed suit. All these years, Quintanilla has consistently given his fans what they wanted to hear – a hit song. And although Quintanilla has recently won back the Kumbia Kings name, he's already proven that he doesn't need it.

What made the hit songs then is the same ingredient that makes the hit songs now: A.B. Quintanilla.

Kumbia All-Starz continues the theme of fusing cumbia and rap and then some. Quintanilla knows there is no limit to pushing that bar and shows us this when he performs alongside his group. With well-known hits like "Chiquilla" and their latest hit "Por Ti Baby" (featuring Flex), its no wonder that Quintanilla will be riding proudly into Sacramento.

Kumbia All-Starz will be performing this Sunday, July 26, in concert at the Empire Events Center, 1417 R St., Sacramento. It is the band's first appearance in Sacramento. Show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets are $40. Normal dress code requirements are not enforced on concert nights, so come dressed comfortably and prepare to dance, dance, dance. The energy and sound that radiates when this group of ten are in a room will lift you to your feet before you can say "cu-cu[uuu]."

Photos courtesy of Quintanilla's MySpace page.

Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "selena"

American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music

A. B. Quintanilla and Kumbia All-Starz to perform in Sacramento this weekend