The Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture is set to present ¡El Inolvidable! Tito Rodriguez, a three-day retrospective of the iconic Puerto Rican singer’s life, song and lasting influence from November 11 to 13 on the campus of Hostos Community College, 450 Grand Concourse (at 149th Street), in the Bronx, New York.
With his elegant voice, graceful manner and impeccable style, Tito Rodríguez (1923-1973) rose to the top of Latin music, leaving behind a legacy of boleros, Cuban standards, instrumentals and mambo. His importance is fundamental, influencing salsa stars from Cheo Feliciano and Ismael Miranda to Gilberto Santa Rosa.
Under the artistic direction of the singer’s son, Tito Rodríguez, Jr., as well as consultant and Latin music historian Joe Conzo, Sr., the festival is designed for both Tito Rodríguez enthusiasts and those less familiar with his music.
The weekend includes film screenings, never-before-heard recordings, a family concert, a panel discussion – and to top it all off – 2 main concerts with the Tito Rodríguez Orchestra led by son Tito Rodríguez, Jr. with multi-Grammy Award winner Gilberto Santa Rosa, known to his fans as El Caballero de la Salsa (Salsa’s Gentleman).
The main concerts take place on Saturday, November 12 at 8:00 PM and on Sunday, November 13 at 4:00 PM in the Main Theater. Together – live and on the stage at Hostos – they will perform 24 of the beloved singer’s legendary songs – from his mambos and cha cha chás to his romantic boleros and smokey torch songs.
John “Dandy” Rodríguez, Jr. will take to the stage in a free family concert on Saturday, November 12 at 12:30 PM with an informative performance demonstrating the different styles of Latin music, such as the mambo, cha cha chá and bolero. Throughout the concert, the bandleader will perform some of Tito Rodríguez’ music and speak about the singer’s enduring legacy and importance. This family concert is appropriate for ages 4 and up. Free admission with ticket: Call (718) 518-4455.
Tickets for concerts and all events are available at www.hostoscenter.org or by calling (718) 518-4455. Hostos Box Office hours are Mon. to Fri., from 1 PM to 4 PM and two (2) hours before showtime.
Author: World Music Central News Room
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