Published on Feb 3, 2005
The Republic of Cuba has always been known for strife (severe
economic recession) and illicit migration to the United States. But
Cuba also has glorious mountains, warm, sunny beaches and talented
musicians. The Rough Guide states Cuba is ‘”the island that gave
the world the rumba, the mambo, the chachacha, the danzon and the
habanera. Forget sugar, cigars, and rum — music is Cuba’s greatest
export. The island is one of the musical powerhouses of the world.”
And from this island comes Jon Secada.
In 1971, at the age of nine, Secada’s family moved from Havana
to Miami, Florida. In the 11th grade he sang in
A Christmas Carol and proved his musical capabilities. He
earned both B.A. and M.A. in Jazz Vocal Performance from the
University of Miami.
Because he is bilingual (Spanish and English) he often blends
the two together on his albums, or records an album in a Spanish
version and also in an English version, thus giving him the title
of “crossover artist.” He writes in English first and then
translates to Spanish. This gentleman believes in being
well-rounded and has helped produce other Latin artists. He thinks
of himself as a pop singer/songwriter, but I simply think he’s
extremely skillful at his craft, no matter the form it takes. His
love of Latin rhythms, percussive beats, and r&b riffs
infiltrate his music too.
This time he offers
Grandes Exitos. Each song is better than the last. “Angel”
is a sensual, gentle tune. It is the story of loving someone enough
to let go of yourself, and then eventually letting go of the other
person too. This is one of my favorites because of Secada’s sexy,
souful vocals which are highlighted as well as a beautiful melody.
Jon’s propensity is for ballads, and he shines when he throws
himself into this type of romantic song. “Quiero Mas” translates as
“I Want More,” and don’t we all. It is a faster paced number and
the rhythms are fun. My head bobbed through the entire song. I love
the beat and the background vocals.
“Alma con Alma” means “soul to soul” and is another slow and
soft, passionate and provocative song. Secada serenades you in an
intimate manner through voice control and sensorial lyrics. The
piece speaks of dreaming sweet dreams of the one you love; holding
them tight, kissing their lips and being soul to soul. “Sentir,”
which translates as “I’m free,” demonstrates Secada’s powerful
vocals; the passion he feels for his music pushes this artist to
express himself without limitations. “Otro Dia Mas Sin Verte”
proclaims that it’s “just another day” with a dynamic beat and
robust vocals, and is another of my favorites.
You don’t have to be Cuban, or even have to understand Spanish,
to enjoy Jon Secada’s music. He has a way of seducing you through
his music. The Spanish language is extremely romantic and erotic
too. Secada’s vivaciousness runs through the entire album. His
music is alive and vibrant. Add a lusty language to a libidinous
artist and the sum is pure romance. You don’t know what the future
brings, so hold on tight to this day, this moment, and allow
yourself to enjoy a few moments of sensational music with someone
special.