How, why and when did you get into salsa?
In Colombia, living there in the early 90’s, I was taken dancing by the musicians from Toto la Momposina’s band.
Who first taught you to dance salsa?
Friends of mine in Colombia.
Did you have any dance training prior to salsa?
No.
Tell me a little about Sidestepper. When, why and how was it set up?
In 1995/96 it was an electronic project, trying to do the same to salsa as the hip hop movement had done to 70’s funk, bringing this great music to 90’s clubheads.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
God.
Who do you admire?
Pachecho, Bill laswell, Daniel lanois, Peter Gabriel, Diomedes Diaz and Andrea Echeverri.
What’s your favourite track at the moment?
Creezy Hype Heatwave remix feat Gnarls Barkley, Rubi Dan, Tok and Beenie Man.
What are your all time favourite tracks?
El Faisan - Pachecho
What are your favourite albums?
Fe Esperanza y Caridad - Henry Fiol
What music is in your car/cd player/tape player at the moment?
Who are your favourite artists?
Too many to mention, from Howlin Wolf to Tupac to Ismael Rivera ….
If you were not a successful Promoter/Teacher/DJ/Musician, what would you be doing instead? Or if you also have a full-time job, what do you do?
Perhaps a journalist.
What’s your all time favourite salsa club/event that you have played/taught/danced?
There are many, but the first salsa club I went to in Bogota has special memories, Son Salome until 6 in the morning…
What has been your most memorable moment?
Again there are many, but a Sidestepper gig at the Marlin in 2003 was a great show.
Have you had any embarrassing/nightmare-ish moments in salsa?
Total on-stage meltdown when Sidestepper opened for Ozomatli at the Melkweg in Amsterdam 2001.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
photos by Claudia Calle
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