February 28th, Interview with Salvador Santana

What have you been working on recently?

I recently decided to take a break from the road and tour life and dedicate my time strictly to writing original music and composition for film and television. Over the holiday season I got an opportunity to compose a piece that was featured in an E-card for Women of Vision with the non-profit, World Vision. That was a lot of fun and quite a challenge for me because I had to learn how to sync my music to the card’s animation. However, I did get some help from a good friend and band member Jared Meeker. (Thanks Jared!) I’ve also been collaborating with several different artists to write new music.  One project in particular that I’m really excited about is with awesome musician/producer Barrett Yeretsian (who produced Christina Perry’s hit song “Jar of Hearts”). Barrett and I met through a mutual friend and have been working an amazing song titled “Mi Tesoro” which translates: my treasure. The song and title were inspired by mi Abuela (my grandma, aka dad’s mom) Josefina who called me “Mi Tesoro”. Andy Vargas from the Santana Band graced us with his vocals, and is featured on the track.

What has been your favorite part of the work you have been doing?

My favorite part about the recent work that I’ve been involved in has been the overall process and watching this new chapter in my career unfold.  In my collaborations with different artists, I’ve been learning so much about myself and how I love to be in the studio and in creative atmosphere. Also, I’m able to gain much more knowledge and experience from all the artists that I’m working with. It has been an even exchange. I have enjoyed watching and listening to the songs as they develop and I’m really looking forward to completing the songs and releasing them to the world.

Do you miss touring or are you enjoying your time at home working on these different projects?

Every once in a while I find myself thinking about going back on the road. But taking some time away from that part of my life has also presented many alternative ways for me to be proactive with my creative passion towards music. Whether I’m on tour or in the studio, I am very grateful for the opportunities that allow me to offer my services. As long as it involves music, I am always on board!

I know that recently you lost good friend and talented musician Jose “Crunchy” Espinosa. Can you share a little of how Crunchy impacted your life?

I first met Jose “Crunchy” Espinosa in the summer of 1999 during the supernatural tour. He was in a band called Ozomatli and they were opening up for my father at the time.
I was in high school then and I was really into Ozo and their self titled debut record. We didn’t hang much after that tour, even though we attended the same college, CALIFORNIA Institute of the arts or CalArts. However we were at school at different times and we just missed each other. It wasn’t until the middle of 2006 when I was touring heavily with my band; I decided to hold auditions for horn players. Crunchy flew up from LA to SF, played the audition and the rest was history. From there we played on many tours together, traveling all over the country and even in Europe. We also made my first full-length album together in downtown LA at producer Jason Roberts’ studio. I will never forget those times late at night listening to music and laughing and with him. While sharing quality time with Jose both on and off the stage, he taught me how to interpret music with passion and conviction. He also taught me how to live life with a smile on my face and to never forget to have a good laugh at least once everyday. I have so many wonderful stories and experiences that have to do with Crunchy, but there is one thing I’ll always remember about him. He told me that he always had believed in my music and me and I am forever grateful to him and his family. They have made such a positive impact in my life.

You participated in a benefit for Crunchy as well as performed for George Lopez where the proceeds were donated to his family. Can you tell me a little about the events?

The first event was held at CalArts on Sunday Dec 5th. My current guitar player in the band and dear friend to Jose and his family, Jared Meeker, coordinated it. On that day family and friends all gathered together with one common goal in mind, to help celebrate Jose’s light through art and music and to give support towards his family. I asked Jared if there was anything I could do to help, and he simply responded, “Let’s jam”. No one foresaw Crunchy being able to make it to the performance, however he surprised us. With all of his strength he graced us with his presence and enjoyed the day that was dedicated to him.  I’ll never forget the look on his face. He told me he was so overwhelmed by just the thought alone, and how people had come from all over to show support and love. I told him that this was all we wanted for him, and we got that and so much more. 

The 2nd event happened out of thin air. I was attending a family event and just so happened to bump into no other than Mr. George Lopez. We started talking about what both him and I were currently working on. Because he knew Jose from when we performed on Lopez Tonight this past June, I wanted to inform George about Jose’s health. George immediately wanted to help and asked me if my band would be available to open up for his stand up performance at the Nokia Theatre in LA. He said he would give $10k to me to give to Jose and his family for doing the performance. I almost cried. I was so honored and moved by his generosity. A week later we did the performance. It was a success, and George thanked me afterwards. I told him that I should be the one thanking him, and I did.

Performed a 45 min Set at the Dodgers Stadium on May 23rd 11:15! Thanks to everyone who came out and enjoyed some great music and baseball!

http://www.myspace.com/killerssoundtrack

Record Store Day is almost here (4/17) and to celebrate it, Salvador is sharing his memories and love of… RECORD STORES! Check out the video HERE and be sure to support YOUR local record store and artists.

Salvador’s song “We Got Somethin’” featured twice!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQGoX9_eac0[/youtube]

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk9Boxw00-o&feature=related[/youtube]

Check out the full interview @ Project Rhythm Seed

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3S76WFogTIw&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6S4Gie4D8U[/youtube]

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bdr76isjXLM[/youtube]

More nice press on Keyboard City.  Check it out!

LA WEEKLY

Boulder Weekly

ANTI Music

WERS Radio Online

URB Magazine

Access store by clicking HERE.