Ray Barretto Profile 4/14 WKCR 89.9 FM

Sunday profile prep and the joys of Sesame Street

Hi Readers!

Long time no write. I know I need to get better at scheduled posts, but I have good news! This Sunday, April 14th, from 2 to 7 p.m., I’ll be co-hosting a Sunday profile with my friend Stephen Park (hi Stephen) on WKCR 89.9 FM, focusing on NEA Jazz Master Ray Barretto.

I plan to write a more in-depth reflection on my experience programming the show and what I think about his incredible career, but for the last few months, most of my free time has been spent listening, reading, and learning as much as I can about Maestro Barretto. Once the show is over, I’ll have more time to process everything and report back.

Putting together this block has brought me so much joy, and I know his music has done the same for countless others. Do you have a favorite Ray Barretto album, song, feature, photo, or performance video? If so, I’d love to hear about it in the comments so I can explore it all while I finish prepping for Sunday afternoon.

While I’ve still got you, I will share a few clips featuring Ray I love.

The following are all from season 8 of Sesame Street episode 0966. The first one showcases Ray Barretto on Congas, Ray Romero on Bongos, and Jimmy Delgado on Timbales, demonstrating the sounds different drums make. The Second is an explanation of La Clave rhythm versus Las Claves, the two sticks that make the rhythm. The third and final video is a performance by the three drummers. The beginning features the neighborhood kids dancing along and then watching closely as the rumba continues.

I hope you enjoy these videos as much as I do. If you like them and have some free time this Sunday, Consider tuning into WKCR 89.9 FM if you’re in the New York City area or WKCR.org to listen and learn more about Ray Barretto's incredible career and influence on jazz and salsa music. We will be on air from 2- 7 P.M., so stop in for a tune or the whole show; it will be lots of fun.

Until Soon,

Emily