El peso de la buena música
Por Juan Carlos Pérez-Duthie / Especial El Nuevo Día

Miami - El llamado “Pavarotti de la Salsa”, Humberto “Tito” Nieves, ya no es tan robusto como antes. Ha rebajado, dice, 102 libras. Y le faltan 50 más. Pero lo que para nada ha perdido ha sido su creatividad.
Grueso o esbelto, después de 30 años de carrera, el salsero puertorriqueño sigue buscando la forma de mantenerse vigente. Por eso decidió hacer de su más nuevo proyecto uno innovador en su trayectoria: “Tito Nieves en vivo” (La Calle/Univisión Music Group), que consiste de un cd de sus grandes éxitos y un dvd, el primero que hace.
Si algo también destaca esta producción de diez temas, es la canción lanzada como primer sencillo, y que está en la radio en estos momentos, ‘Mi mayor sacrificio’, a dúo con el cantautor mexicano Marco Antonio Solís.
“Yo trato cada disco como si fuera el primero… y el final”, revela a El Nuevo Día el cantante, próximo a cumplir los 49 años. “Porque nuestro destino ya está escrito. Siempre he grabado así, con esa misma hambre, como cuando hice mi primera grabación, que es como tu primera ‘jevita’. El día que no tenga ese sentimiento, me retiro pa’l cara...”.
(LEE OTROS ARTICULOS DE ENDI.COM)

Feliz Tras la Bariatrica
Aixa Sepúlveda Morales / Primera Hora

Tito Nieves celebra su primera grabación “en vivo”, pero también celebra la vida. El veterano salsero dice que puede disfrutar mucho más su carrera musical desde que se sometió a una cirugía bariátrica con la que redujo considerablemente su peso.
“Amo la vida, y ahora quiero vivir más. Siempre he tenido todo, pero las enfermedades me controlaban”, contó ayer, lunes, a PRIMERA HORA, en medio de su agenda promocional que lo mantendrá en la Isla por tres días.
El músico detalló que previo a esta operación, que se realizó el pasado julio en Orlando (Florida), padecía de diabetes, alta presión y alto colesterol.
Narró que constantemente veía cómo familiares y amigos “se iban” (morían), víctimas de diferentes padecimientos similares a los suyos.
“He perdido colegas, amigos y familia. El año pasado perdí a una tía por la enfermedad silenciosa: la diabetes, y me preocupaba mucho porque hace 15 años me diagnosticaron, aunque nunca necesité inyectarme insulina. Pero el Día nacional de la salsa fue el último ejemplo. Había un cantante amigo mío en tarima y vi que estaba casi perdiendo la vista y dije: ‘Tengo que hacer algo’, consulté con mi esposa y lo hice... Hoy, no tengo diabetes, no sufro de colesterol y tengo la presión bien”, declaró quien asegura que también se siente mejor en tarima. (LEE EL ARTICULO EN PRIMERA HORA)

“Music is my calling.”

Three decades of music and the “Pavarotti” of salsa music is stronger than ever Humberto Nieves always knew that he was destined to be an accomplished singer. Nicknamed “Tito” at an early age, the future “Pavarotti” of salsa music was born in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico and raised in New York, where he nourished his musical predilection on tropical, blues and pop music. “In 1975 I decided that music was my calling,” explains Tito. “At that point I was full of dreams, and would look at a Fania (All Stars) photo with all those big artists and all I could think is what could I do to get to them, to be near Tito Puente, Johnny Pacheco and Celia.”

GROUNDBREAKING ASPIRATIONS

At age 15, Tito Nieves recognized his musical calling and set out to conquer the world of salsa. His relentless drive led him to approach Orquesta Cimarron and he quickly became their lead singer for the following two years.At the end of the 70’s, Tito joined the great Hector Lavoe Orchestra. “Hector taught me the steps in music, he took me by the hand, giving me his support,” Tito recalls. Shortly after, Tito experienced his first recording studio sessions as the lead singer of Tairbori. In the early 80’s, he joined Conjunto Clásico. “During this time I grew musically and, as I shared the stage with Celia Cruz and Tito Puente, it felt like all my dreams had been fulfilled.”“I was born at the right time,” affirms Tito. “Music is my calling. I was fortunate enough to live in an era where I could contribute to, alongside the salsa greats, the evolution of tropical music.”

In 1988, Tito set out on his own and recorded Classic, which included the hit, “Sonámbulo,” earning him his first Gold record as a solo artist. The following year, he released Yo quiero cantar, which featured the song “I’ll Always Love You,” adding 2 more Gold records under his belt.

BREAKING BARRIERS BY MAKING HITS

Throughout his career, Tito has defied the language barrier with his versatility and crossover appeal. His music speaks to the hearts and minds of people everywhere, regardless of the language they speak. Tito also helped to define that which the media dubbed the New York Sound.

Included among the timeless classics that Tito has graced with his melodic voice are smash hits such as “Can You Stop The Rain,” “You Bring Me Joy” and “De mí enamórate.” However, there was one song that quickly became the anthem of the 90’s and sealed Tito’s place in pop culture forever, “I Like It Like That.”

Tito’s transformation of the original song into an energetic powerhouse with vibrant Latin overtones catapulted him into mainstream success. The song quickly became a hit and was used as the theme song for a movie with the same name. Nationally recognized conglomerates such as Folgers’ Coffee and Burger King, alongside several TV programs and sporting events, all capitalized on the song’s success, further establishing Tito’s dominion of the international music market. “One of the most precious gifts that this song afforded me was the opportunity to share it with my musical colleague, Steve Wonder” recalls Tito. “Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure of working with artists that I admire and respect, such as José José and Marlon Brando,”

WELL-DESERVED RECOGNITION

Tito counts among his plethora of recognition, three Ace Awards: in 1994 for “Singer of the Year,” in 1996 for “Best Video” (No Me Vuelvo Enamorar) and in 1997 for “Best Artist in New York. In 1998, he was nominated for a Billboard award for his Clase Aparte album. Tito was awarded a 1999 Globo award for “Best Tropical Singer” and a 2000 Premio Lo Nuestro for the song “Así Mismo Fue.” Tito’s work garnered him a 2002 GRAMMY® nomination for “Best Salsa Album.”

“Awards are wonderful, but the best recognition that an artist can receive comes from the public,” declares Tito, who received his nickname, “Pavarotti” of salsa music from Johnny Pacheco. “That was Johnny Pacheco’s idea during the Fania days when I had to record backup vocals, singing far away from the mic. Johnny would look at me and say, “You are all a Pavarotti.’”

THE EVOLUTION

In 2000, Tito Nieves’ song “Un Amor Así” hit Billboard’s Top 10 and was followed by “Como Llegó tu Amor,” a duet with the legendary Rubén Blades.

“Throughout my career, I have taken great care to present music that is both timeless and classy,” Tito explains. “Each album is a testimony to my growth as a singer and songwriter. My music is a continual process where I constantly redefine my sound. I am always looking for new ways to express myself both lyrically and musically. It seems to be working because, with each album, the list of Tito Nieves’ fans grows,” he concludes.

In 2004, Tito Nieves released his album, Fabricando Fantasías, which showcased an intimate, vulnerable side of Tito never seen before. “This album remains a key part of my musical repertoire because it allowed me to grieve the loss of my son. Music is a beautiful thing because it allows us to express our innermost thoughts and feelings that otherwise would remain unspoken.”

TODAY, TOMORROW AND ALWAYS

Nowadays, Tito Nieves is once again the center of attention with his latest production entitled Hoy, Mañana Y Siempre. Tito has once again teamed up with GRAMMY award winning producer and composer, Sergio George, to bring the public a sound that is both classic and contemporary. Tito’s latest album is sure to make history, with the first single, “Esa Boquita,” an ardently romantic track that displays the salsero at his best. Tito also stays at the forefront of music with his reggaetón single, “Terremoto,” which features Hip-Hop’s favorite Latin rapper, Fat Joe, and rising reggaetón superstar, Miguel Play. Tito’s release also features 5 songs written by renowned Latin music songwriter, Jorge Luis Piloto, and showcases Tito in his prime.

“This album breaks musical barriers because we have incorporated the fresh, new sounds of reggaetón while staying true to the sound that Tito Nieves is known for,” explains Sergio George. “Diehard Tito Nieves fans will enjoy his latest selection of salsa hits, while a younger audience is captured by Tito’s ability to crossover into the reggaetón genre.”

MOVING FULL CIRCLE

“I have been blessed with love, financial security and success while doing what I absolutely love,” confides Tito. “I hope to continue evolving with my work so that I can contribute to future generations of music.”

Indeed, Tito Nieves has come full circle with his humble beginnings in Puerto Rico and New York to his international success as one of the leading salseros to date. To the delight of his fans and followers, Tito Nieves continues to hit the market with pulsating songs that envelop the listener with a sense of urgency found only in the music of the greats. To think, the best is yet to come.

The Classic Released 1988 - RMM Records
Tito Nieves' superb solo debut still leads the pack as a showcase for his prodigious voice. Producer/arranger Sergio George manages to give him the adequate charts ("Sonámbulo," "Papel de Villano") to make it happen. One of his finest vehicles and the one that solidified his longtime relationship with RMM Records





Yo Quiero Cantar Released 1989 - RMM Records
Tito Nieves' second solo effort pulls no punches and is a whirlpool of excitement. The RMM music machine (led by Sergio George) keeps the fire ablaze; at the start of the decade, the label's efforts would pay off in spades and the loyal following it established would become common knowledge. The sassy "Soy Cantante" (by Charlie Donato), "I'll Always Love You" (an adroit attempt of captivating the English-speaking audience), and "A Romper Cadenas" are quite enjoyable and hold up nicely. Another gem by the always-listenable Nieves.


Dejame Vivir Released 1990 - RMM Records
The pinnacle of all his solo efforts, this recording helped immensely in conveying Nieves' personality to the public; his deep vocals are at his best, and no other recording has captured salsa fans' imaginations like this one. A definite must-have for Nieves' fervent fans, the highlights include "Algo Diferente," "De Mi Enamórate," "Almohada," the standard "How Do You Keep the Music Playing?," and the title tune.



Rompecabeza: The Puzzle Released 1992 - RMM Records
Another Tito Nieves knockout that continues his well-established formula with RMM Records, wherein his prodigious vocal command is set against the label's well-oiled musical staff, led by producer Sergio George. The highlights are "Amores Como Tú," "Desde Que te Tengo a Tí," "Manías," "Can You Stop the Rain," "Mi VIda de Ayer," and "Voy a Arrancarte de Mí." Tito Nieves could not have done this any better; this CD renews his certification as a bona fide salsa superstar.



Un Tipo Común Released 1994 - RMM Records
This is Tito Nieves at his most romantic; yet, he retains his flavorful, highly traditional style that has made his repertoire quite fun and danceable. It is hard to outshine his early RMM efforts, but this should be listened to on its own terms; the title tune (by composer Omar Alfanno) is a standout. Alternately recorded with New York and Puerto Rico-based musicians.





Dale Cara a La Vida Released 1995 - RMM Records
Another Tito Nieves production, where his customary solid voice and warm personality make the best of somewhat routine, romantic material. The title tune, "Amanecí en Tus Brazos," and "Como un Niño Celoso" are the highlights.






I Like It Like That Released 1996 - RMM Records
Tito Nieves' first all-English album is an homage to the boogaloo years and includes bandleader Joe Cuba tunes ("Bang-Bang"), as well as the title tune (written by Tony Pabón and Pete Rodriguez), which made the Pete Rodríguez Orchestra one of the most popular in the 1960s. Furthermore, Tito uses previously recorded tunes like "I'll Always Love You" and the standard "How Do You Keep the Music Playing?" (by Alan and Marilyn Bergman), as well as pop tunes like "Heart of Mine" and an effective Motown-label medley. Unusual vehicle for a salsa artist in the 1990s.


Clase Aparte Released 1998 - RMM Records
This is Tito Nieves' next-to-last RMM effort. Tito Nieves' powerful voice is used to full advantage, practicing the formula that has always worked for him: romantic salsa with additional English-language tunes. "Mas," "Permíteme Darte un Beso," and "To Be With You" (recorded by Jimmy Sabater in 1967) are pretty enjoyable.




Así Mismo Fué Released 1999 - RMM Records
Tito Nieves' final RMM album is a departure from his decade-long label with empresario Ralph Mercado; it has the enjoyable flair that makes his productions quite listenable. The title tune, "Mía," and "Tu Te lo Pierdes" are the standouts on this, a gracious exit from a successful association.




En Otra Onda Released 2000 - Wea Latina
Tito Nieves' first effort for WEA Latina retains the same flavor as his previous efforts with RMM. Nevertheless, producer/arranger Sergio George maintains the fever pitch that grants him considerable public preference. "Un Amor Así" and "Como Llegó a Tu Amor" (with Rubén Blades) are the standouts.







Muy Agradecido Released 2002 - Wea Latina
This is an excellent cd. The first song, La Salsa Vive, includes appearances by La Reina Celia Cruz, que descanse en paz, Cheo Feliciano, and Gilberto Santa Rosa and is an excellent tribute to past and present salseros. The second song, my favorite, is a duet featuring Olga Tanon. Sergio George is a great producer and Tito Nieves a great singer. "La Salsa Vive" the first release of this album is absolutely the Salsa record of 2002. This instant hit is with the collaboration of Celia Cruz, Ismael Miranda, Gilberto Santa Rosa and Cheo Fecliciano.



Fabricando Fantasias Released 2004 - SGZ
With an even split between studios of Miami and those of his birthplace, Puerto Rico, Tito Nieves' first record for Sony International is equal parts a celebration of his heritage and an embrace of the future. Much of the record is uncompromising, joyful, compaña-driven salsa, the music on which Tito Nieves built his reputation. There is also plenty of material that might make your abuela blush. "Ya No Queda Nada," a collaboration with salsa songstress India and reggaeton artists Nicky Jam and K-Mil produced by reggaeton superstar Noriega, is as bold and modern as it comes. Nieves seems as comfortable in one style as the other. It reminds audiences that this is the same artist who blazed the salsa crossover trail with his enormous hit "I Like It Like That," and the same spirit of innovation is alive and well within him today. The title track, "Fabricando Fantasias," an achingly emotional, masterfully crafted song dedicated to Nieves' late son, Ommy, who he had lost a very short time before, is equally strong in impact and moving whether in its salsa or ballad version. Though a short nine tracks, including remixes, Fabricando Fantasias is marked by excellence, a characteristic of anything Tito Nieves sets his hand to. After 14 years as a solo artist, to still be making records of such a high quality is the definition of staying power. Nieves is here to stay.




Hoy, Mañana y Siempre Released 2006 - SGZ
Crown prince of the New York sound, Tito Nieves continues to define himself as the most contemporary, modern voice in salsa. At a time when most other salseros with credibility tend to play their cards close to the chest, hoping to retain their purist fan base, Nieves shrugs his shoulders and says, "Reggaeton? Why not?" While Gilberto Santa Rosa and Oscar d'León stay safely inside the walls of salsa as usual, Nieves invited artists like Fat Joe and Miguel Play to collaborate on his anything but safe release Hoy, Manana y Siempre. The ubiquitous Sergio George and famed Jorge Luis Piloto also weigh in as producers/arrangers for the ambitiously titled project. As could be expected, the straight-ahead salsa tracks, which hark back to Nieves' days with salsa legend Héctor Lavoe, are joyous and rich. His vocals are thick and tuneful, ever earning his nickname, the Pavarotti of Salsa. Though a bold move for a salsa artist, Nieves' collaboration with Fat Joe, "Terremoto," is underwhelming. It seems to have nothing at all to do with Nieves and everything to do with marketing. The second attempt at reaching new blood, "Si Yo Fuera El," proves much more fruitful, finding an excellent balance that features stripped-down reggaeton aesthetics while still capitalizing on Nieves' vocals. Dedicated fans will be pleased and new disciples won over thanks to this daring, intelligent effort.


Canciones Clasicas de Marco Antonio Solis Released 2007 - UMG/La Calle Records
(review to be updated soon)

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