It was difficult to see past the purple lights and blue haze that flashed by latin-heavy-hitters at Manhattan’s Lexicon for the 9th annual Latin Mixx Conference – but one thing was for sure, it was live.
Led by entrepreneur Kevin “Pills” Montano, the night saw artists like DJ Rich, DJ Carlito, Nicarguan artist, El Chev, and fresh from coming off tour with K-C & Jojo, DJ Jonney Miles.
Studded by latin names from all corners of the globe, artists and Dj’s came together for one common cause – latin heritage. It was beautiful. Circles huddled and gathered, switching from circle-to-circle exchanging handshakes and business cards. The room’s blaring spanish music accompanied the sensuous woman two-stepping to mixes that the alternating DJ’s created themselves. There was a movement in the air; one that made you feel like only importance filled the room. Like ideas were being passed around, rather than just liquor glasses, and empty conversation. Where the events space lacked, the energy of everyones aura made up for the rooms cramped style; and deep in, near the main booth, a sunken dance floor awaited, with anticipating bystanders surrounding the higher levels as they watched and enjoyed themselves.
Founded in 2006, Latin Mixx is a convention advocating art, entrepreneurs, culture, and technological advancements for Dj’s wanting to enter the industry, and needing direction. The dream began the day Montanos younger cousin and Hot97 Dj, “DJ Threat,” was killed in a motorcycle accident.
“It all began because of him,” Montano said. “We honor Latino Dj’s, and give them a stage because of him. I created the conference to raise the name of the Latino DJ to another level.”
An aspiring executive, holding positions at Hot 97, Ruff Ryders, and Atlantic Records, the young DJ was the inspiration; but Montanos drive was its success. President of “Creative Media Group” and Creator of “The Latin Mixx Conference” & “Latin Mixx Awards,” the Dominican Republic native, Kevin, has been involved in marketing and promotions for over 15 years. Montano began The Jason “DJ Threat” Campbell Foundation in 2002; and in 2005, Kevin created The Latin Mixx Conference & Latin Mixx Awards. Coming into its 5th year in 2010, The Latin Mixx Conference continues to be a huge success. Last April he sat amongst a panel of experts at the 2014 Latin billboard Awards.
Dominican singer Johnny Ventura and famous disc jockey John “Jellybean” Benitez, who has worked with artists like Madonna, will be honored on Thursday at the 9th annual Latin Mixx Awards. The 74-year-old will receive a lifetime achievement award for introducing the native merengue sound of the Dominican Republic to countries around the world, said Montano.
“My father had his vinyls. He’s is just as important to our heritage as anyone else is. Its an honor to honor the legend.”
This is only the second time the organization has bestowed this honor, Montano said. Panamanian singer-songwriter Ruben Blades received the award last year.
– hurtjohn (@Mr_Hurtado_)
