
|
|
Latin Forum
On the Sound Circuit
Want to discover new music? Take a road trip to some of
the finest and fun music festivals in the country—and beyond.
BY ROMINA RUIZ-GOIRIENA
BILLBOARD LATIN
MUSIC CONFERENCE AND AWARDS
When and Where April 20-23, 2009, Miami Beach
www.billboardevents.com
This is the single most important Latin music industry event in
the world. Highlights include the Billboard Bash, a pre-awards extravaganza
featuring live performances by top acts, and the annual Star Q&A.
The week is capped off by the Billboard Latin Music Awards.
Who played there Jimmy Flavorr, Nelia, Carmen Jara, Pablo Cepeda,
Los Primos De Durango, Black Guayaba, Diana Reyes.
TRIGGERING CHANGE
CONFERENCE
When and Where April 2009 dates to be announced, Amherst
This two-day conference puts scholars, artists, activists and intellectuals
in conversation with each other about the political mission of hip-hop
culture.
Who played there Dead Prez, Rebel Diaz, Dr. Jared Ball, Rosa Clemente,
KET, Pop Master Fabel, Tools of War, Davey D, Conscious Women Rock
the Page, Toni Blackman.
LATIN RAP CONFERENCE (LRC)
When and Where November 18-21, 2008,
Los Angeles
www.latinrapconference.com
This is the only music industry conference of its kind focusing
on the Latin rap and reggaeton genre. Currently in its sixth year,
the conference’s goal is to educate, empower and create a
forum for Hispanic hip-hop artists. This year, LRC will be hosting
the first ever Latino Hip-Hop Awards Show.
Who played there E-Legal, Reyes del bajo mundo, El Vuh, Code Blue,
Krazy Race, Sick Jacken and DJ Muggz, Mal Verde.
PACHANGA FEST
When and Where 2009 dates TBA, Austin
www.pachangafest.com
Literally translated as “lively party,” Pachanga is
a Latin themed music, cultural arts and food festival dedicated
to showcasing the vibrant blend of Latino-created music and art
along with the impact it has on American culture today.
Who played there Grupo Fantasma, Vallejo, Maneja Beto, Charanga
Cakewalk, Girl in a Coma, Pistolera, Bombasta.
SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST MUSIC
AND MEDIA
CONFERENCE (SXSW)
When and Where March 18-21, 2009, Austin www.sxsw.com/music/
On more than 80 stages in downtown Austin, SXSW showcases hundreds
of musical acts of both new talent and established artists alike.
In its 23rd year, it also offers unique panels and artist interviews.
Who played there Acid Girls, Todd Barry, Santogold, R.E.M., David
Bazan, Serj Tankian, Be Your Own Pet, Body of War with Kimya Dawson.
¡VIVA! CHICAGO
LATIN MUSIC FESTIVAL
When and Where August 29-30, 2009, Chicago
www.vivachicago.us
The annual ¡Viva! Chicago festival in Grant Park celebrates
Latin music and culture, attracting some 150,000 people to the shores
of Lake Michigan. This two-day festival features all styles of Latin
music along with food, a low rider car show and Latin dancing.
Who played there Menudo, Don Tetto, Yamil, Malo featuring Jorge
Santana, Fobia, Mike Roman & The Tellstars Featuring José
“Chepito” Areas and Armando Peraza.
SOULFRITO URBAN
LATIN MUSIC FESTIVAL
When and Where 2009 dates TBA, Miami Beach
www.soulfrito.net
Soulfrito is the nation’s first music festival dedicated to
the 12-34 urban Latin demographic. This festival explores the social
and cultural influences that have contributed to Urban Latino culture
through music, fashion, films, and spoken word.
Who played there The D.E.Y., Kat DeLuna, Joell Ortiz, Orishas, Notch,
J Camilo, L-Smooth, The Brass King, DJ Africa and renowned spoken
word artist La Bruja.
LA LINEA LATIN
MUSIC FESTIVAL
When and Where April-May 2009, London, U.K.
www.comono.co.uk/lalinea08.php
This festival has been bringing infectious vibes to London since
2001, drawing on influences from Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula.
Performances range from fiery flamenco to soulful Cuban jazz and
R&B.
Who played there Ska Cubano, Bajofondo Tango Club, Daniel Melingo,
classical composers Villa Lobos and Francisco Mignone, Koko.
|