As summer unfolds in Boston, the city’s vibrant Latin music scene offers both a celebration of cultural heritage and a reminder of the challenges faced by the community.
This year, summer brings numerous live music opportunities that reflect the rich traditions of Latin America, yet many nonprofit arts organizations are grappling with uncertain futures due to recent federal funding cuts.
This is particularly impactful for events aimed at immigrant communities, where questions about the readiness for large gatherings linger on the minds of potential attendees and organizers alike.
Despite these uncertainties, the Latin music landscape this summer is filled with energy and excitement, showcasing a wide array of performances.
The Tito Puente Music Series is one of the notable highlights this season.
Running from July 10 through August 14, this floating music festival offers free concerts featuring Latin acts across multiple Boston locations, spearheaded by Berklee College of Music, Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción, and the City of Boston.
The series promises not just high-caliber performances but also an atmosphere filled with enthusiastic dancers.
Exciting acts scheduled include Cuban singer-songwriter Barbara Zamora Vargas on July 10 at O’Day Playground and the diverse ensemble Kristalis y Las Nenas del Swing, performing on July 31 at Mission Hill Playground.
Adding to the rich musical offerings, the Villalobos Brothers will perform at the Museum of Fine Arts on July 10.
Drawing upon the stringed traditions of their home state of Veracruz, Mexico, this trio is known for their dynamic sound that blends influences from rock to classical while retaining their cultural roots.
Their performance is part of the MFA’s Concerts in the Courtyard series, which will also feature Afro-Cuban percussion legend Pedrito Martínez on August 21.
On July 12, Los Mirlos will take the stage at the Oceanside Events Center in Revere.
Originating from the Amazon rainforest of Peru in the early 1970s, Los Mirlos became pioneers of chicha music, fusing traditional cumbia rhythms with a psychedelic sound reminiscent of surf music.
After reuniting as a family band with original lead singer Jorge Rodríguez Grández, they became the first Peruvian band to perform at Coachella, securing their place in contemporary Latin music.
Dominican artist Ala Jaza will perform at Malayas Nightclub in Lawrence on July 18.
Ala Jaza has gained a massive following by blending reggaeton with engaging merengue and bachata rhythms, and his collaboration with superstar Prince Royce has only added to his appeal.
One of the highlights of the summer is the Festival Betances in Boston’s South End on July 19.
This long-running festival celebrates Puerto Rican culture and features renowned acts such as headliner Bobby Valentín, revered for his affiliation with the iconic Fania All-Stars.
The festival promises vibrant performances, Puerto Rican cuisine, children’s activities, and a lively parade, drawing crowds eager to embrace Puerto Rican heritage.
The event supports the local community amidst a backdrop of uncertainty while demonstrating the enduring spirit of cultural celebration.
FM Collective will contribute to the Zumix Summer Concert Series in East Boston on July 20.
While the band fuses a variety of genres including reggaeton, funk, hip-hop, and experimental rock, they have captivated audiences in the Boston live music scene with their innovative sound.
The lineup this summer showcases their versatility and the warm reception they’ve received from local fans.
The Lowell Folk Festival, taking place from July 25-27, will feature renowned Latin acts that reflect the excitement and fun of traditional music.
Colombian artist Yeison Landero, known as ‘the king of cumbia,’ will bring his acclaimed cumbia sounds, and Edwin Perez y Su Orquesta will represent the ‘salsa dura’ sound of Nuyorican music.
For those who enjoy live music regularly, the Jazz Night at Long Live Beerworks in Roxbury every Thursday is worth exploring.
This venue has focused exclusively on Latin jazz, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary rhythms.
Highlights include Grupo Gozarsa performing salsa and Afro-Cuban jazz on July 10, along with a compelling appearance by Venezuelan trombonist Angel Subero on July 31.
Continuing throughout the summer, UnCommon Corner in Boston Common offers an outdoor stage for free performances, featuring Latin music curated by Ágora Cultural Architects.
The performances take place multiple times a week inside a popular beer garden, showcasing a range of talent including percussionist Manolo Mairena on July 12 and Barbara Zamora again with her Bolero & Filin Trio later in the summer.
Furthermore, Ágora is collaborating with Roundhead, Boston’s first Latino-owned brewery, to present shows at pop-up beer garden locations throughout the city.
A notable performance to mark on the calendar is Georgie Rodriguez on August 16, a Puerto Rican bassist and guitarist known for his innovative style.
Closing out the month, Lone Piñon will perform at Club Passim in Cambridge on July 28.
Focusing on the preservation of New Mexican music traditions, this string band boasts a bilingual repertoire that celebrates the intricate sounds of violins, accordion, guitars, and the vihuela.
As Boston welcomes a flurry of Latin music events this summer, the community’s resilience continues to shine, reminding audiences of the cultural richness and the power of music to bring people together.
Despite uncertainties, performers and organizers remain committed to keeping the spirit of Latin music alive in the heart of Boston.
image source from：wbur
