In this episode of Ritmo and Roots, we take a nostalgic journey back to the 2000s—a transformative decade where music, identity, and culture collided in fresh and unexpected ways. From the explosion of reggaeton to the rise of Latin pop crossovers, the unstoppable force of hip-hop and rap, and the Bay Area's infectious dance movements, we explore how the sounds of the 2000s shaped a generation and left an indelible mark on global culture. Through personal stories, cultural analysis, and iconic tracks, we revisit the beats that defined an era and still resonate today.
Some heartbreaks fade with time, while others linger, etched into our memories. But no matter the pain, there’s always a song that understands exactly what we’re feeling. In this episode of Ritmo & Roots, we take a deep dive into the most unforgettable heartbreak songs—tracks that capture the agony of lost love, unspoken words, and the bittersweet journey of moving on.
From El Triste by José José to Don’t Speak by No Doubt, we explore the history, meaning, and emotions behind each song. Whether you’ve cried to these before or are discovering them for the first time, this episode is a tribute to the heartbreak anthems that stay with us. So grab a drink—maybe some tequila, maybe some wine—and let’s take a journey through Desamor (Heartbreak).
🎧 Press play and let the music heal.
Episode 5: A Love Letter Through Music – A Valentine’s Day Special
Love and music are inseparable—songs capture moments, define relationships, and become the soundtrack to our most cherished memories. In this special Valentine's Day episode of Ritmo & Roots, I’m sharing my own love story through the songs that have shaped my journey with my wife. From the unexpected way we first met, to the challenges of distance, and the song that brought us back together, this episode is a celebration of love, fate, and the melodies that tie it all together.
Join me as we dive into the music that tells our story, featuring tracks from Sin Bandera, Noel Schajris, and a heartfelt dedication with Die with a Smile by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars. Whether you're celebrating love, longing for it, or reminiscing on past romances, this episode is for you.
Tune in, turn up the volume, and let the music take you back.
In this special episode of Ritmo and Roots, we honor Black History Month by exploring the deep connections between Black culture and Latin music. From the African rhythms that shaped salsa, merengue, and reggaetón to the legendary Black artists who paved the way, we celebrate the influence that continues to inspire generations. Join us as we dive into the history, stories, and sounds that bridge cultures and bring people together through music.
In this episode of Ritmo and Roots, we explore the power of music as a source of strength and identity for immigrants. Through a carefully curated Playlist of Resilience, we dive into songs that capture the struggles, hopes, and triumphs of migration. From Los Tigres del Norte’s La Jaula de Oro to Calle 13’s Pa’l Norte and La Santa Cecilia’s ICE El Hielo, we uncover the stories behind these powerful tracks and discuss the impact of immigration in the U.S. We also share resources for those affected by immigration policies. Tune in for a journey through music, history, and resilience.
In this episode of Ritmo and Roots, we explore how salsa is making a comeback in modern music through artists like Bad Bunny and Rauw Alejandro. From its roots in Afro-Caribbean communities to its fusion with reggaetón and pop, we’ll dive into the history and evolution of salsa. Discover how these artists are reimagining the genre, paying homage to their heritage, and introducing it to new generations. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering salsa, this episode is for you!
