My dad and most of the Verdés side of the family grew up playing multiple instruments. He loved, loved, loved any kind of music, but was an afficionado of classical and played both the piano and the cello. As much as I love my salsa music, oldies, and classic rock, I love listening to classical when I'm working on an art project. I think it ...
Concerts
The EPIC Mr. Don’t Touch the Banana
The following post was written by Kikita, whose appreciation for bananas has led to endless laughter and entertainment. I can't tell you where or how it all started, but it started. I can only guess it happened on facebook because that's where most things happen these days.Let me be clear about something . . . I am not particularly fond ...
He Danced With Me
The following post has been brought to you by the lovely and talented (and oh-so-humble) Kikita. About 10 years ago, when I was an adorable teenager who didn't remember much of the Spanish she'd spoken as a child, I saw the movie "Dance with Me." It was magical. There was a beautiful Puerto Rican guy (Chayanne) who was playing ...
Mixing business with pleasure
We're back on the road to Vegas this weekend, but let me tell you why... My blog-pal, Amy Arnaz, wife of my pastelito-loving friend, Desi Arnaz Jr. invited us to come and enjoy a special tribute concert this coming weekend at their beautifully renovated Historic Boulder Theatre. Yes, of course we're going. For three reasons: 1) The ...
Jimmy Smits is Stalking Me.
Kikita here. You know, the Center of the Universe? =DI'm here to tell you that Jimmy Smits is following me around Los Angeles.Never mind that I live in Orange County.When Mami and I were sitting front row at the Andy Garcia concert, we saw Mr. Smits come in the side door. (Yes, he IS a part-owner of the Conga Room where Andy was playing, ...
Magical Summer Moments
Sunday, September 6, 1970. My very first concert. Smokey Robinson and the Miracles at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Their opening act was Little Stevie Wonder who had just had a big hit with "Signed, Sealed, Delivered." This was my very first concert. I found the ticket tucked away in my high school photo album. Thirty-nine years ago ...