|
 Many
of you know longtime LP artist Eddie
Montalvo for his expert session
and live work with the A-team of Latin music. His CV includes his accompaniment
of such legendary artists as the Fania Allstars, Ruben Blades, Celia
Cruz, Willie Colon, dancer Eddie Torres, and folk/pop/world singer
Paul Simon. Let’s put it this way: If you’re reading this
page, you’ve seen Eddie Montalvo pop up on many liner notes.
Despite his stature, however, Eddie wasn’t prepared for the
events that unfolded on February 2, 2008. That night Eddie Montalvo & Friends
appeared in a sold-out performance at the Lehman Center for the performing
arts. As it turned out, it was the occasion when Eddie made the leap
from peer recognition to talk of the town—something the humble
musician never expected.
As Eddie puts it, “I was totally overwhelmed! For me, it was
enough to have the audience respond with such energy. But for a couple
of weeks I’d get stopped by strangers congratulating me on the
awards.” Eddie refers to the special presentation at intermission
during which he received two official proclamations attesting to his
ceaseless efforts on behalf of Latin music. One was presented by Assemblywoman
Naomi Rivera on behalf of the State of New York, the other by Consulate
Joel Rivera on behalf of the City of New York.
“I was tremendously moved by those honors,” says Eddie. “I
felt humbled but also validated for the many years of sacrifices I
made performing the music that is in my heart. It’s not easy
for performers to stay true to the music they love. I owe thanks to
a lot of people, including LP.”
At the Lehman Center, as on all his gigs, Eddie used the LP
Eddie Montalvo Signature Series Congas, designed for the right balance of
studio warmth and live projection. The drums serve Eddie Montalvo & Friends
well in their spirited sets comprised of what Eddie terms “old
school salsa that is hip and fresh”. He ought to know—he’s
played on over 150 diverse Latin/jazz recordings. And when he looks
back three decades, Eddie has fond memories of recording a seminal
conga instructional record in LP founder Martin Cohen’s home
studio.
LP congratulates Eddie Montalvo for a successful career focused on
Latin music.
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