'LA'Ritmo.com: When did the band first form?
Willie Villegas: 1998
'LA'Ritmo.com: Who are the current members and what are their backgrounds?
Willie Villegas: Entre Amigos is an appropriate name for a group of Talented Musicians who
compliment each other with their Versatile playing and giving that extra
added attraction to a live show with such energetic solos like Johnson
Morales - pianist and co-leader who gives you an explosive style and
originality beyond the normal realm. Marcial Caraballo - bassist; sets the
foundation and anchors the groove. Willie "Timba" Rodriguez - congas; enhances
the Rhythm along with Jim Popelka on bongos, giving Entre Amigos that special
nostalgic New York style. Gamaliel Bonilla is lead trombonist with a strong
sound and bold solos also sings background vocals. Jeff Iglesias is the 2nd
trombonist and minor percussion adds flavor to a tee. And last but not least,
Alfredo Torres - lead vocals; takes the challenge of singing with Entre Amigos
knowing that at live performances he has to invent new lyrics on the spot
with virtually no time to think.
'LA'Ritmo.com: What brought everyone together as one band?
Willie Villegas: Looking forward to playing the classic salsa tunes that were popular in the
60's 70's and early 80's.
'LA'Ritmo.com: How would you describe your music and playing style?
Willie Villegas: Willie Villegas Y Entre Amigos are a powerful 8 piece band consisting of two
trombones and a full rhythm section plus a versatile lead vocalist, giving the
classic salsa aficionado that special nostalgic 'blast from the past" sound.
'LA'Ritmo.com: How often do you play live, how can someone check out one of your shows?
Willie Villegas: Quite often and they can simply e-mail me at Salsaenlacalle@aol.com and I
will reply with the dates of our gigs.
'LA'Ritmo.com: What is one of your shows like?
Willie Villegas: Well, think of the hard core danceable salsa with exploding percussion solos
and versatile improvisations created by the hottest band in New York,
performing like your favorite classic artists.
'LA'Ritmo.com: What are your musical influences?
Willie Villegas: Classic salseros from the Eras of the 60's 70's and early 80's (Eddie
Palmieri, Fania All-stars, Ray Barretto, etc.)
'LA'Ritmo.com: In terms of the growing popularity of Latin music today, where does
your band fit in?
Willie Villegas: We are providing a doorway to the past through our interpretation of what we
call hard-core salsa for those less fortunate who do not know or heard of the
pioneers of the salsa music.
'LA'Ritmo.com: How would you rate New York City as a scene for Latin music?
Willie Villegas: Not enough salsa clubs and to many bands trying to get gigs. My rating is a
seven.
'LA'Ritmo.com: In what ways are you promoting your music?
Willie Villegas: Through the Internet, over the radio and literally selling our CD's out the
trunk of our cars.
'LA'Ritmo.com: What difficulties have you encountered as an independent band?
Willie Villegas: Not enough exposure and promotions on a worldwide scale like the way a major
record label can provide.
'LA'Ritmo.com: As a Latino band?
Willie Villegas: My band has always achieved great results to latinos and non latinos alike.
'LA'Ritmo.com: What does the future look like for your band?
Willie Villegas: We hope to record with a major record label and continue to reach a world of
music lovers.
Website: www.laritmo.com/WVYEA
Contact: Willie Villegas - 718-834-0883, Salsaenlacalle@aol.com
See WIllie Villegas y Entre Amigos live in New York City at the Blue Lounge at Gonzalez y Gonzalez. Check out the schedule of Latin bands.
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