Poncho Sanchez is one of the most well-known conga players (conguero) of Latin music, a Grammy winner, and all around phenomenal band leader. He grew up in a Mexican-American family in Texas and pursued a career as a percussionist after having been inspired by the legendary Cuban conguero, Mongo Santamaria.
The foundation of Sanchez’ music is the Afro-Cuban rhythm brought to the U.S. by Santamaria. Sanchez has taken this music a step further by combining soul, funk and R&B; and since the 1960s has been creating complex Latin Jazz, Salsa, and Boogaloo. His latest album, Do It, continues this hot tropical fusion and features guest appearances by some tremendous funk and jazz musicians.
Unfortunately, though, his people never called me back so we were unable to get an interview with the man himself. Therefore, I can only imagine how Sanchez might have answered my questions. In addition, one of Maui’s very own excellent conga players, Elan Rae, offers us some insight into the heart and soul of the conguero and the attraction to this instrument.
MTW: How would you describe the feeling of Salsa that makes people feel wonderful, even if they don’t know the dance or understand the lyrics?
How Poncho Sanchez might have answered:
Bueno, Latin music is very joyful and high energy and creates an upbeat feeling in the club that just makes you want to move. It is hard to put a word to the feeling. It’s just like when you’re out on the dance floor and the music enters into your chest and, of course, your hips start to gyrate and you feel a sense of high arousal as you get caught up in the moment. And then, as you’re dancing with your friend, you feel totally supported by what is happening around you and you can let go and completely surrender to the moment, the rhythm.
How do you explain the current popularity of Latin music in the USA?
How Poncho Sanchez might have answered:
As the Latino population grows in the U.S., there is obviously more demand for Latin music. At the same time, American people are being exposed to Latin culture more and more and can feel the energy, the joy and the passion behind it. You don’t have to speak Spanish to fully enjoy Salsa. At my shows, I always see people just grooving; it isn’t important to know the exact dance steps. The important part is to just feel the music and not think so much.
Will you please request that they provide a dancing area at the show?
How Poncho Sanchez might have answered:
You mean you can’t dance there? Everyone should dance and get into it. I’ll certainly ask them to provide a space for dancing—that’s what makes the show so memorable and exciting.
What do the congas bring to a band’s sound?
Elan Rae: They make the booty shake! They round out the bottom end, giving music that spicy edge.
What do you feel when you’re jamming out on your congas?
Elan Rae: For me personally, the music just flows out. As a supporting musician, instead of a lead instrument you feel the pulse of the music much more. You look for the pockets and try to feel for your space and how you can then make the booty shake. It’s the connection to the mother of music–the primal connection. It’s the foundation. There’s nothing more fun than making music that makes people dance. MTW
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