La Esquina Latina (LEL) humbly began in 1974 with the sole purpose of bringing the Latino culture into the homes of WPKN listeners regardless of ethnicity or language spoken.
Presented in English with the occasional Spanish, LEL focuses on the cultural significance of the lyrics, syncopated rhythms, and the melodic runs of the Puerto Rican and Afro-Cuban song, including other Latino influences and Latin Jazz.
Since 1974, Luis has been keeping musica Latina alive and strong. His mantra has always been, “Remember…it’s all about the music! It has always been about the music and not the person behind the microphone. This is so important! Projecting a social and time-honored cultural consciousness has always been at the very foundation of LEL mission.”
From time to time, you will hear personal interviews with the likes of Eddie Palmieri, Chucho Valdez, Andy Gonzalez, Bobby Sanabria, Larry Harlow, William Mendoza, Poncho Sanchez, Son 7, Sol y Canto, Joe Gaines, Joe Bataan, Bobby Rodriguez de la Compania, Jose Mangual Jr., Jose Feliciano, Pedro Gonzales de La Charanga Moderna, Plena Libre, Orlando Ortiz de Karibe Mambo, Chris Washburne, Vinny and Ray, and many others, including prominent, and not so prominent community members with something significant to share.
LEL has been a part of WPKN’s listening audience for decades and continues its time honored traditions. Luis states, “LEL has become a major part of my life since the summer of 1974 and it remains as such to this very day.
In 1985, Edwin Muñiz came on board and has been a valued member of LEL ever since. And now, Luis has invited William Mendoza to be a part of LEL team bringing you “Evolucion del Ritmo,” a new segment featuring interviews and music of new talent to the Latin scene.
William has been a professional musician, bandleader, composer, and historian of Latino culture and music for decades. He not only knows the history; he has lived it!
Come, join La Esquina Latina family and celebrate our culture and music!
Que Viva La Musica!
Luis ♫