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¡Spanglish Band!

About Me

Booking a gig or any special event?
contact Jennifer Santiago, manager @ 1.414.418.1102 or
[email protected]
Listen to other song samples at
www.sonicbids.com/spanglishband or
www.spanglishband.com
Jam Collection & Original Salsa Remix!
Spanglish Publicity In Peru!
Daniel Adrián Martínez Contreras "El Chino"
Mis Amigos de Sones y Soneros, como ya lo habíamos presentado en un artículo anterior, la Spanglish Band es una agrupación que próximamente estará presentando su trabajo musical, para ello hemos tenido la dicha de realizar una entrevista con el propietario de Spanglish Band, me refiero a mi Amigo Ulisis Santiago quien nos dará detalles de quienes conforman esta agrupación, pero también tengo que agregar de la participación importante de una dulce dama de nombre Jennifer Santiago, entonces vamos a lo nuestro.
D. M.: Bienvenido a Ulisis a Sones y Soneros
U. S.: Saludos Daniel y gracias por darme a mí y a Spanglish Band la oportunidad de pertenecer a tu portal Sones y Soneros, del cual damos cuenta que contiene información actual, no imagine encontrarte, Perú tiene en Sones y Soneros un portal de primera clase.
D. M.: Como nació Spanglish Band
U. S.: El Spanglish Band vino de una variedad de música y culturas, también fue una respuesta de las peticiones de la comunidad local. El Spanglish Band llega a los oradores de Inglés y español con una mezcla de canciones de diversos grupos y con temas originales.
D. M.: Quienes son sus integrantes
U. S.: Bueno te dare una descripción de los músicos que lo integran:
Visit http://www.sonesysoneros.tk to read the full article!
Fiesta Hispanica!
Spanglish Band is the FIRST Milwaukee Band to have been invited to perform at the Chicago International Salsa Congress!!!
The Spanglish Band received rave reviews from their performance. Here are just a few comments from the Salsa Congress.
  • "The Spanglish Band is the one to watch!"
    "Fresh and innovative sound"
    "I love how you guys are not afraid to go outside of the box with your music"
    "You guys are extremely talented!"
    "Great Vocals"
    "Funky sound, we loved it"
    "Can't wait to see more of Spanglish!"
    "Original sounds. Not all the songs sound the same. We love that!"
    "Loved that the Congress invited you guys"
    "Great talent from Milwaukee"


    • Want to know what else is going on in Chicago?
    Check out www.cityvida.com!!
    ~ Spanglish Band Updates ~
    March 2009,
    The Spanglish Band has been in the studio recording their original music. Their upcoming cd will be a strong mix of traditional Latin musics with an infusion of a variety of Funk, R&B and Latin Jazz. The traditional rhythms have never sounded so good, being spiced up Spanglish style!
    And for all of you DJs and fans who kept asking when our cd will be out...
    watch for it in 2009. We are just as excited as you are!
    ~ Spanglish Band Bio ~
    Do you hear the 2/3 or 3/2 clave? Is that Rumba, Orisha, Son, Plena, Bomba, Merengue or Cumbia? You'll never know what Spanglish will bring to feed your soul next. With fresh and innovative influences coming straight from the island of Puerto Rico, the band is out to impress! .."normal" Latin music scene. More and more people are wanting a variety from the bands they go to see. The community is extremely important to us and we aim to please them with our style and musical selections. The Spanglish Band intends to unite people under the common bond of "a love for music"!
    Spanglish Band extends an invitation to all cultures as they perform both American and Latino music. The song list is an eclectic mix of genres and styles sung in both English and Spanish. Once you experience the Spanglish Band, you will be captivated by the phenomenal talent and multiplicity of rhythms.
    Songs that we play come from an assortment of groups. For example: Michael Stuart, Ozomatli, Jimmy Bosch, Santana, Ruben Blades, Juan Luis Guerra, Funky Cubanics and the Lonely Boys to name a few.
    We look forward to performing for you soon!
    ¿Escuchas las clave 2/3 o 3/2? ¿Sera Rumba, Orisha, Son, Plena, Bomba, Merengue o Cumbia? Tu nunca sabras que Spanglish Band traera para alimentarte el alma. Con frescas e innovadoras influencias que provienen directo desde la isla de Puerto Rico, la banda esta aquí para impressionar.
    La Spanglish Band esta actualmente grabando su música, original . Este nuevo cd, próximo a salir, tendrá una fuerte inflluencia de música tradicional latina con una infusión de variedades; Funk, R&B y Jazz latino. Los ritmos tradicionales nunca han sonado tan bien, siendo condimentados por el estilo único de Spanglish.
    La Banda Spanglish es la primera de su clase en Milwaukee. El grupo es el resultado de personas que buscaban un cambio de la escena musical latino "normal". Cada vez más personas desean una variedad de los grupos que ellos van a ver. La comunidad es muy importante para nosotros y nos proponemos complacer con nuestro estilo y selecciones musicales a nuestra gente.
    La Banda Spanglish extiende una invitación a todas culturas con la música norteamericana y latina que nuestros músicos tocan. La lista de canciones es una combinación ecléctica de géneros y estilos cantados en inglés y español. Una vez que usted escuche a la Banda Spanglish, usted será cautivado por el talento y la multiplicidad fenomenales de ritmos.
    Las canciones que tocamos vienen de varios grupos. Por ejemplo: Michael Stuart, Ozomatli, Jimmy Bosch, Santana, Ruben Blades, Juan Luís Guerra, Funky Cubanics y Los Lonely Boys para mencionar algunos. La banda también se concentra en algunas canciones originales. Los arreglos son añadidos actualmente en nuestras presentaciones.
    ¡Esperamos tocar para usted pronto!

    Log on to www.spanglishband.com to sample music performed by the Spanglish Band.
    ~ Spanglish Band In The Media ~
    The Spanglish Band on the Morning Blend!
    Special thanks goes to Griselda Aldrete of the ¡Aquí! Milwaukee magazine and Channel 4 WTMJ for inviting the Spanglish Band to be featured on the Morning Blend.
    The performance can be seen at: www.themorningblend.com
    Make sure to pick up the June/July 2008 issue of the ¡Aquí! Milwaukee magazine. The Spanglish Band is one of the featured and quoted bands in that issue.
    Here is the write up by Griselda Aldrete.
    With a little less than a year since it's inception, Spanglish Band is already making waves in the local Latin music scene. This band crosses cultures by playing a variety of English and Spanish songs in their performances. With regular monthly performances, check them out at www.spanglishband.com.
    ____________________________________________________________ __
    The following is an article written by Edgar Mendez.
    The article ran in the May 2-8, 2008 edition of the El Conquistador Latino Newspaper, Vol. 11 Issue 18.
    Drawing inspiration from a diverse cast of world renowned artists such as Tito Puente, Paoli Mejias and Gilberto Santa Rosa the Milwaukee based music group “Spanglish” looks to give America a different style of music, which is something they have long been asking for.

    The group Spanglish which was formed in the Fall of 2007 is comprised of band director Ulisis Santiago, trumpist Jake Heyer, saxophonist and flutist Kenny Kunz, lead singer and percussionist Dennis Lopez, bassist and vocalist Candido Maldonado, guitarist and vocalist Johny Marrero, drummer and vocalist Chris Mell, director and vocalist Jeno Somlai, and Bobby Trujillo on the bongos arose out of what they called music fans search for a change and for variety in the Latin music scene in America.
    Their music can range from salsa or cumbia to Latin pop or funk that is sung in either English or Spanish, but often times both in the same song. One moment you may be enjoying their rendition of a cover song from say Santana or Los Lonely Boys and the next thing you know they’re belting out a Jimmy Bosch song or even an original number, all in an attempt to reach out to both English and Spanish language music fans. They say that some believe that in order to dominate the music biz, you must be limited to one style. The Spanglish band disagrees and proves it with each performance.
    The variety extends past their playlist and onto the diversity of their members and their musical backgrounds. Band director Ulisis Santiago began playing professionally in 1995 with a local band called the Tropical Heat. Since then he has been a freelance musician who has played with over 10 different bands. Wisconsinites, Jake Heyer and Kenny Kunz both received degrees in the music field from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. They have been musicians for numerous years and have ties to the White House of Music, which is located in Wauwatosa. Dennis Lopez, who was born in Puerto Rico, began his career as a musician at the tender age of 13. Also a talented dancer, Lopez was a winner in the “Rumba with the Stars” for the year 2007 as well as participant in the Chicago finals for the 3rd season of “So You Think You Can Dance”. Candido Maldonado, who received his first bass from a family member at the age of 15 has been playing with local bands since 1981. Bobby “Bongo” Trujillo is classified as the firecracker of the group who keeps things lively with his energy and extensive knowledge of the bongos.
    The formation of the group Spanglish was an idea that had been passed around for the last couple years, though most of the group aside from newbies Jake Heyer and Chris Mell had been friends for quite some time. To ensure an equal voice in the group Santiago asked each musician to bring two songs that they would like to play. They happily obliged and what emerged was the exiting mix of music they feature today. The culmination of the groups practice and hard work came when they played their first gig on Valentine’s Day of 2008 at La Casa Vieja in Milwaukee.
    If you weren’t one of the lucky ones to catch that show or one of their following concerts don’t worry. There will be plenty of chances to catch up with Spanglish this summer. Their next show will be at Mona’s in Milwaukee on Cinco De Mayo, followed by appearances at Con Safos in McFarland on May 31st, the Shank Hall in Milwaukee on June 6th, and two days later they will be performing at Our Lady of Peace Festival in Milwaukee. If you’re one of those music fans whose been yearning for some new life in the Latin music scene, the group Spanglish has brought it in a big way. Now all that’s left is for you to come out and experience it for yourself.
    Ulisis Santiago's famous friends & influences!
    Myspace Layouts - Myspace Editor - Image Hosting


    ..

    My Interests

    Music:

    Member Since: 23/02/2008
    Band Website: spanglishband.com
    Band Members:

    (left to right)
    1: Johnny, Ulisis and Dennis
    2: Jake, Miguel and Candido
    3: Jeno, Kenny, Bobby and Chris

    Ulisis Santiago
    Owner (Congas)
    Humility keeps Ulisis from letting his phenominal natural born talent go to his head. He is always improving upon his skills and believes that the minute you think you know it all, you stop learning. Ulisis began playing professionally in 1995 with a local mixed music band called Tropical Heat. At the same time, he was performing with Borinbomba, a cultural group that was educating the community about traditional bomba and plena music from Puerto Rico.

    Since that time, he has been a free-lance musician exploring many styles of music with groups such as: Kojo, Abraxis, Bajo Zero, 4K-Torce, Salsa Power, Punto de Vista, New School Salsa Band, Madisalsa, Nabori, Michael Drake, Jeno Somlai, the Luis Diaz Quintet, Clave y Afinque and various Flamenco muscians.

    The Spanglish Band idea came from his love of a variety of music and cultures. It also came as a response from the requests of the local community. The Spanglish Band is reaching both the Spanish and English speakers with a mix of songs from various groups and Spanglish original songs.

    Miguel Colón
    (Vocals & Percussion)
    As the most recognized voice in Milwaukee, Miguel effortlessly amazes the crouds with his vocal talents. He has written a few Spanglish Band originals ranging in style from bachata to salsa to reggea. Miguel is a true lyricist. With his smooth vocals and unique style, you will be captivated by his onstage presence.

    Starting his musical career in 1996, Miguel sang with Juveniles del Merengue and been singing and writing music for numberous bands since. His extensive list includes groups such as Bahia, Bajo Zero, Cache & Friends, the New and Old School Ensembles, Punto de Vista, Salsa Power, Tumbao, Veneno Orchestra and even a short stint with Nabori. Miguel started and owned a bachata band, 4k-Torce and currently sings with Grupo Kaña as well.

    Not many local singers are as recognized as Miguel. He has backed up artists such as Wichy Camacho, Caño Estremeda, Lalo Rodriguez and Eddie Santiago just to name a few. Colón was eager to take on the challenge and variety that the Spanglish Band had to offer and the band was just as excited to have him.

    Jake Heyer
    (Trumpet)
    New kid on the block, Jake's experience with the Spanglish Band may be new to him, but one would never know. He is a natural and is always striving to perfect his execution on the trumpet.

    Jake has been studying and playing trumpet for over 15 years. He has a degree in music from the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, where he studied trumpet with Bob Baca. When Jake is not playing with the Spanglish Band he is working as a band instrument repair technician at White House of Music in Wauwatosa.

    Kenny Kunz
    (Saxophone & Flute)
    Without intimidation, Kenny steps out towards the audience to showcase his musical solos. As a seasoned musician, it's easy to see why he's a local band favorite. Whether he's belting it out on the sax or the flute, he is always giving a great performance.

    Born in Milwaukee, WI, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire with a Bachelor of Music Education degree. Past member of Punto de Vista Latin Orchestra and Old School Soul R&B Band.

    Present member of Big Swing Face Big Band and Spanglish Band. Studied jazz composition with Dominic Spera and studied saxophone with Eugene Rouseau at Indiana University. Buyer for White House of Music stores.

    Dennis Lopez
    (Lead Singer)
    Lead singer, Dennis Lopez is a true entertainer. When the Spanglish Band was forming, Dennis was the first to come to mind for its lead singer. With his versatile vocal abilities, he can master any genre Spanglish throws at him. He is currently writing originals for the band. Not only is he a tremendous singer, he can make the most difficult dance moves seem completely effortless as he performs with his dance group, Mambo Elegancia.

    Born in Puerto Rico, his talents cross the arts with his passion in singing, dancing and playing instruments. It all began for him at the age of 13, when he traveled playing Bomba and Plena, traditional Puerto Rican music. He is an international performer, instructor and choreographer, dancing and singing for 23 years. Performing in numberous Salsa Congresses he represented Puerto Rico for 5 consecutive years, touring in Europe.

    Lopez recently participated in the Chicago finals of “So You Thing You Can Dance” season three and was the winner of “Rumba with the Stars 2007”. For the past 8 years, he has been part of two local bands, Bajo Zero and Nabori. Dennis is the director of Mambo Elegancia, a local dance group, that astounds the audience with their fanciful footwork and artistic forms.

    Candido Maldonado
    (Bass & Vocals)
    As Milwaukee's best bass player, Maldonado adds a special flair to each performance. Without having to rely on sheet music, he hears what is coming at him and nails it instantly. His love of music crosses all genres and his unique style can integrate with any type of music. This is just the thing that the Spanglish Band loves.

    At 15, a family member put a bass in his hands and said “play this”. He decided it was a great idea so he took classes in high school. He started shorly after with a local band called Just Jammin. Since 1981 he has played with numberous local bands like Arizon Star, Latin Invation Combo 83+84, Abraxis and Punto de Vista Orchestra.

    Johnny Marrero
    (Guitar & Vocals)
    Fun loving Johnny Marrero keeps the laughter going for the Spanglish Band. He was originally a percussionist but after hearing Santana’s “Samba Pati” as a kid, he knew the guitar was his one true love. Marrero wrote the Spanglish Band's first original and is on to many more. He is an outstanding guitarist and possesses an extremely euphonic singing voice.

    He was one of the original members of Abraxis and Punto de Vista Orchestra, both local bands. Marrero feels the best way to describe him is something like this...“He loves quiet nights, long walks on the beach and running barefoot in fields of tall grass.”

    Now do you see why Spanglish is always in a good mood when Johnny is around? He is a serious musician with a seriously funny sense of humor.

    Chris Mell
    (Drums)
    Having the multiplicity of rhythms from a drummer like Chris is just what Spanglish wanted to set themselves apart from other area latin bands. With a drummer like Mell, one can only appreciate this integral aspect of the Spanglish Band. Chris can effortlessly switch and incorporate a myriad of rhythms into what ever song Spanglish has on its list.

    Chris has been playing the drums for 20 years. While going to UW-Whitewater for music, Chris studied and toured with Steve Wiest, John Becker, Ed Shaushnessy, Brad Leahi, Dave Pietro, Mike Spiro and the Maynard Ferguson Big Band. He also toured Europe twice playing in London, Paris, Germany, the North Sea and at the Montreaux Jazz Fest.

    Chris currently lives in Milwaukee playing with the North Coast Orchestra, Eric Jacobson Quintet, Avenger Assemble and the Spanglish Band.

    Jeno Somlai
    Director (Piano)
    Just to say that Jeno is an incredible musician is not enough. First being a master drummer, he then decided to dominate the piano. Jeno Somlai started playing the drums at the age of 2. In addition to playing with the Spanglish Band and having his own group, Somlai arranges music for other local bands.

    He has been a professional musician for over 20 years. He received a certificate in performance as a percussionist form the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in 1992. Upon graduating, he was added to and remains on the faculty at the Conservatory. Jeno has performed with Melvin Rhyne, Brian Lynch, Luis Diaz, Lachazz, Donna Woodall and Don Linke.

    He currently leads his own latin jazz group which released his debut cd “Let it Go” in 2004. This cd is receiving airplay on radio stations across the United States, Canada and Europe. The group has recently been in the studio finishing the follow up cd “Black, White and Grey”, due out in 2008. Jeno is completing his degree in piano performance at Cardinal Stritch University. He also teaches privately, out of his home studio, in Brookfield, Wisconsin.

    Bobby Trujillo
    (Bongos & Vocals)
    With our firecracker, Bobby "Bongo" there is never a dull moment. The Spanglish Band loves his excitement and dedication to the music.

    Trujillo started his music career at the age of 14, playing trumpet in high school. It was too loud at home to practice so he gave it up and was first tenor in the school choir. Later he joined an R&B band and various singing groups. Bobby is bringing a little of this flavor to the band with an old-school remix. "Ain't no sunshine when she's gone" has never sounded so good!

    His first quartet was with Sonica Latina playing bongos and singing chorus. Later he joined other groups such as: Likes of Nacon, Salsa Power, Sabor, Kalidad, Clave Afinque, Isla Dentro and finally now with the Spanglish Band.

    Influences: Too many to mention!!
    Sounds Like: The Spanglish Band is a blend of Milwaukee's most talented artists. We don't have to give you a pretentious description of how we sound.

    The band is nothing other than pure talent with a true passion for entertaining. The vocals are unmatched in Milwaukee and the musicians are as well!

    Come and see for yourself.
    Record Label: Unsigned

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