Bill Murray At Chongo Productions

Bill Murray Visits Chongo Productions for the Recording of Pedrito Martinez’s New Album

When you think of legendary actor Bill Murray, images of comedic brilliance and iconic roles come to mind—whether he's a ghostbuster or a groundhog whisperer. But recently, fans of music and film alike were treated to an unexpected but amazing crossover when Murray visited Chongo Productions during the recording of Grammy-nominated percussionist Pedrito Martinez’s new album.

The visit, which took place in the heart of Chongo Productions’ state-of-the-art studio, was an incredible moment for everyone involved. For Carlitos Padrón, the founder and multi-talented musician behind Chongo Productions, it was a surreal but exciting opportunity to welcome an actor with such a rich cultural influence.

Pedrito Martinez holds aShekere with focused precision, while Bill Murray watches, captivated by the rhythm.

The Magic of Pedrito Martinez and the New Album

Pedrito Martinez is a force in the world of Latin music, known for his incredible virtuosity on the percussion and his deep-rooted Afro-Cuban influences. His new album promises to be a powerful blend of rhythmic mastery and heartfelt storytelling, with rich textures that bring salsa, jazz, and Afro-Latin music together. With a Grammy-winning track record and a unique sound that has captured the hearts of music lovers around the world, this album is expected to be another milestone in Martinez’s already stellar career.

Pedrito Martinez and Bill Murray sharing a passion

Bill Murray: A Surprising but Fitting Guest

Bill Murray Recording At Chongo Productions

What made this visit particularly special was the involvement of Bill Murray, who, though not a musician himself, has long had an affinity for music—especially jazz and Latin rhythms. He’s collaborated on various projects with musicians over the years, and his appreciation for world music is well-known. As someone who enjoys exploring different cultures and art forms, Murray's appearance at Chongo Productions felt like an organic connection to the passion and creativity fueling Pedrito Martinez’s work.

Bill Murray’s visit wasn’t just a casual drop-in; he engaged with the musicians, soaked in the energy of the studio, and even showed his support for Pedrito's artistry. For those in the studio, it was an unforgettable experience. Murray’s charm, humor, and undeniable presence added an extra layer of magic to an already incredible musical session.

A Historic Moment for Chongo Productions

Carlitos Padron, Bill Murray, Pedrito Martinez

For Chongo Productions, which has hosted numerous high-profile artists from across the globe, this was a defining moment. The visit of a cultural icon like Bill Murray further solidifies the studio's reputation as a place where magic happens—where the fusion of different musical genres and cultural influences is not just welcomed, but celebrated.

As a producer, engineer, and percussionist, Carlitos Padrón has worked with some of the biggest names in music, but having Bill Murray in the studio, sharing space with Pedrito Martinez, was a special moment in the history of Chongo Productions. It was a testament to the far-reaching impact of music, and how it unites people from all walks of life, regardless of their background or profession.

Carlitos Padron Recording For Rauw Alejandro

Carlitos Padrón Brings His Percussive Magic to Rauw Alejandro's Cosa Nuestra Album

In the world of Latin music, few albums have generated as much buzz as Rauw Alejandro's Cosa Nuestra. With its fusion of reggaeton, trap, and Latin rhythms, this album has quickly become a standout release in 2024. But one key ingredient in the making of Cosa Nuestra has been somewhat of a secret to fans—until now.

Behind the beats and rhythms, adding an undeniable layer of depth and groove to the album, is none other than Carlitos Padrón, the talented percussionist, producer, and visionary behind Chongo Productions. Known for his collaborations with top-tier Latin artists, Carlitos’s unique touch on Cosa Nuestra is a perfect blend of his Afro-Cuban roots and his forward-thinking musical sensibility.

A Seamless Fusion of Sounds

As soon as the album’s first track hit the airwaves, fans were immersed in a world where reggaeton met sophisticated, intricate rhythms. What makes this album stand out is its sonic complexity, and Carlitos Padrón’s percussion plays a vital role in shaping that. Whether it's the deep, rich sounds of congas, timbales, or the infectious beats of the bongos, Carlitos’s contribution to the album adds the authentic Latin flavor that elevates Rauw Alejandro’s urban sound.

Carlitos’s percussion expertise is rooted in years of experience, working with the likes of Rubén Blades, Tito Nieves, and Wynton Marsalis. His ability to blend genres and cultural influences is precisely what made him the perfect collaborator for Rauw Alejandro on this project. The result is an album that not only brings fresh energy to reggaeton but also nods to the timeless rhythms of Latin music.

The Energy of Collaboration

For Carlitos, the opportunity to collaborate with Rauw Alejandro was an exciting one. Known for his innovative approach to reggaeton, Rauw has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre. His collaboration with Carlitos was a natural fit—melding the progressive sounds of urban Latin music with traditional percussion to create something truly unique.

What Fans Can Expect

“Cosa Nuestra” isn’t just another reggaeton album; it’s a journey through Latin music’s rich history, reimagined for today’s audience. Carlitos Padrón’s percussion on the album takes center stage on several tracks, pushing the boundaries of what Latin urban music can sound like. His rhythmic precision, combined with Rauw Alejandro's forward-thinking approach, makes for a refreshing, exciting listen that is sure to captivate audiences worldwide.

Fans of Rauw Alejandro will be pleased to find a rich, layered listening experience where Latin rhythms collide with modern beats, creating a unique and dynamic soundscape. Carlitos’s influence is felt throughout the album, adding a level of depth that only a percussionist with his talent could achieve.

A Tribute To My Idol

“An Spectacular Night of Music and Dance at Lincoln Center"

In the heart of New York City, at the iconic Lincoln Center, an extraordinary event unfolded recently that left a lasting impression on all those fortunate enough to be in attendance. "Tributo a mi Ídolo" was a tribute concert organized by the talented musician and producer Carlitos Padrón, dedicated to the legendary Puerto Rican timbalero, Willie Rosario. The night was a true celebration of Rosario's musical legacy, featuring a full house of passionate dancers and an array of remarkable guest artists from various parts of the world. Let's delve into the electrifying atmosphere and memorable performances that made this event a resounding success.

Carlitos Padron

It was an absolute honor to be part of this unforgettable night dedicated to the legendary Willie Rosario.

The vibrant energy of Latin music filled the air, setting the tone for an unforgettable night. Carlitos Padron, an accomplished musician and bandleader, took the stage with his Rumberos Del Callejón, leading the audience into a rhythmic journey that paid homage to Willie Rosario's unique style. The stage was adorned with colorful decorations and visuals, creating a lively ambiance that perfectly complemented the vibrant music.

Adding to the excitement of the evening, several distinguished guest artists joined the stage to showcase their incredible talent. From Cuba, the acclaimed percussionist Pedrito Martinez mesmerized the crowd with his virtuosity, infusing his Cuban roots into the mix. Gerardo Rivas, a renowned musician hailing from Puerto Rico, contributed his distinct flair to the event, enriching the musical experience with his mastery of the rhythms. Victor Quintana from Venezuela brought his unique perspective, infusing the melodies with his Latin American influence. And last but not least, Angel Rios from NYC displayed his incredible skills, further enhancing the multicultural tapestry of the night.

Tributo A Mi Idolo (Tribute To Mi Idol)

No tribute to Willie Rosario would be complete without dancers swaying to the infectious beats. The event attracted an enthusiastic crowd of skilled dancers who filled the venue with their captivating movements. From classic salsa to energetic timba, the dance floor was alive with joy, showcasing the connection between music and movement. The synchronized steps and exuberant spins added an extra layer of excitement, creating an immersive experience for everyone present.

Willie Rosario's impact on the world of Latin music cannot be overstated. As a revered timbalero, bandleader, and composer, his contributions have left an indelible mark on the genre. "Tributo a mi Ídolo" served as a heartfelt homage to Rosario, showcasing his influential compositions and paying tribute to his remarkable career. Through the spirited performances and the collective passion of the musicians and dancers, Rosario's musical legacy was kept alive, inspiring a new generation of artists and captivating the audience.

A Night Full Of Sabor 🔥🔥🔥

The "Tributo a mi Ídolo" event at Lincoln Center was an awe-inspiring night of music, dance, and cultural celebration. Carlitos Padron and his Rumberos Del Callejón, along with the guest artists, created a vibrant and unforgettable experience for all attendees. The electrifying atmosphere, the stunning performances, and the overwhelming support of the audience made this event a resounding success. Through the power of music, the event highlighted the universal language that transcends boundaries, connecting people from different backgrounds and cultures. As the night came to a close, the legacy of Willie Rosario continued to resonate, reminding us of the enduring power of music and the joy it brings to our lives.

Carlitos Padrón Live At DROM

March 10,2022

NYC

 Last Thursday, March 10, New York City witnessed the vibrant music emerging in this city, the cradle of salsa, with a new generation of artists committed to this genre and creating original music. Such is the case with Carlitos Padrón and Rumberos del Callejón, who, accompanied by guest artists, got the entire audience dancing during a spectacular performance held at the Drom nightclub, located in the heart of Manhattan.

Performing all their hits, Rumberos del Callejón and their musical director Carlitos Padrón meticulously ensured every detail of the production sounded modern and high-quality. The result was a treat for all the salsa enthusiasts who came eager to hear great salsa music and left satisfied, wanting more.

Carlitos Padron

A smile of satisfaction after a magical night where salsa reigned supreme.

The night was described as a musical journey, featuring the invaluable participation of renowned guest artists who proved on stage that salsa is alive and thriving in New York.

On a single stage, Carlitos Padrón managed to bring together international artists considered the new face of salsa. This included Ronald Borjas, Jeremy Bosch, Gerardo Rivas, Ángel Ríos, Maya García, and Anthony Almonte, who graced the evening with their performances. They were accompanied by the musical talents of José Tabares, Carlitos Padrón, Manuel Márquez, Larry Flyn, Pablo Santaella, Arturo Ortíz, Aníbal Martínez, and Carlos Orduz, whose seamless collaboration ignited the magical warmth that only salsa can provide.

The show concluded with a powerful rendition of Que Bien Me Siento, an original composition by Carlitos Padrón for Chongo Productions LLC. The performance brought together all the guest musicians on stage, joined by the audience, who sang and danced along to this production, originally recorded in 2022.

Gerardo Rivas

The Puerto Rican singer gave it his all on stage, captivating the audience with his voice.

The night was such a success that Drom scheduled a new date for the Rumberos del Callejón performance. On April 28, the salsa group will once again delight attendees and lovers of great salsa with their live music.

Jeremy Bosch, Maya Garcia y Manny Marquez.

The talent, charisma, and vocal quality of these young artists show that salsa is alive and thriving in New York.

Follow along on their social media:
Facebook: Rumberos del Callejón
Instagram: @carlitospadron
Official YouTube channel: CarlitosPadron

Lic. María Mariña

Carlitos Padrón Live At Lincoln Center

Rumberos del Callejón celebrated their 10th anniversary in grand style.

-NYC-

Not even the cold could extinguish the fire ignited by the musical group Rumberos del Callejón on December 19, 2019, at the Lincoln Center in New York City. They celebrated their tenth anniversary in grand style, performing a repertoire with top-tier sound and no waste whatsoever.

Carlitos Padron

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Rumberos del Callejón at the David Rubenstein Atrium of Lincoln Center.

The evening began with a performance by the renowned DJ Marysol, who lit up the dance floor for the tribute band's performance.

The David Rubenstein Atrium, a venue that has hosted some of the best global musical acts, was the perfect stage for Rumberos del Callejón to showcase the quality and flavor of their salsa. Their performance, filled with talent from start to finish, captivated the audience who came that night to hear the best of the Caribbean genre.

Carlitos Padrón & Rumberos Del Callejón

Always offering the best of Latin music to the dancer.

The group, led by Carlitos Padrón, performed a full repertoire of songs from their three albums: De la Nada, Construyendo, and the most recent 10mo Aniversario. The latter received excellent reviews from the public and media related to salsa worldwide, praised for its sound quality and its ability to make everyone who listens want to dance.

This production features the participation of vocalists and musicians who have influenced recent years of salsa. Among them are Tito Nieves, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Maelo Ruíz, Domingo Quiñones, Wilmer Lozano, Rodrigo Mendoza, Angel Vallenilla, and Luis Fernando Borjas. 

Angel Ríos

Lead vocalist of Rumberos del Callejón

Rumberos del Callejón was formed in the city of Caracas by percussionist Carlos Padrón. They are currently based in New York, the cradle of salsa, a hub that has allowed them to evolve and create high-quality music with the collaboration of excellent professionals who are passionate about the salsa genre.

Lic. María Mariña

Photo: Eduardo Perez-Tobón

Una Noche Con Ruben Blades

Salsa and jazz joined forces on a night with Rubén Blades

-NYC-

Carlitos Padrón describes his participation in the concert Una noche con Rubén Blades in collaboration with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis as one of the most significant steps of his career. The event took place at the Rose Theatre in New York City at the end of 2014, where the salsa giant performed, over three consecutive days, his greatest hits in a repertoire that fused the flavor of salsa with the elegance of jazz.

Led by bassist and musical director Carlos Henríquez, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis welcomed a very special guest to their Manhattan stage: singer, composer, actor, and activist Rubén Blades, a nine-time Grammy winner. It was a historic concert featuring talented musicians from both the jazz and salsa genres, with percussionists Bobby Allende, Marc Quiñones, and Carlos Padrón, as well as singer Eddie Rosado at the forefront.

Ruben Blades

Together with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra in a concert that fused Afro-Latin culture with jazz standards in New York City.

Una Noche con Rubén Blades delighted the audience with the most distinctive compositions of the renowned Panamanian artist, including "Pedro Navaja," "Ligia Elena," "Patria," and "El Cantante," as well as standards like "Too Close for Comfort" and "Begin the Beguine." These salsa classics, reinterpreted during the concert, became an elixir of sound and musicality, turning each piece into a musical gem.

The jazz master Wynton Marsalis amazed the audience with each of his musical solos, transforming the songs performed by the great Blades into rhythms of salsa and jazz. It is important to note that the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, directed by Wynton Marsalis, is made up of 15 of the best soloists, ensemble players, and arrangers in contemporary jazz.

Marsalis is considered one of the most influential jazz musicians of the last twenty-five years and one of the greatest trumpeters in history.

This concert received glowing reviews and was praised by everyone present, who expressed feeling honored to witness such a level of genius—a team effort that resulted in this masterful performance, filled with Caribbean nuances, rhythms, and jumps, but with the swing of jazz.

As a fun fact, this show was streamed live online worldwide for free, in high-definition audio and video.

Lic. María Mariña