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 Admired as the DJ’s DJ, Henry Knowles, known as the world’s top Salsa DJ, spins a tension-building beat, filling dancers with ánimo. With la clave in his heart and the music in his veins, his passion for Latin culture and music translate in his work, making this very special disc jockey's mixing abilities unmatched and respected worldwide. His breadth of knowledge about Salsa music and its history combined with his music library and ability to read his audience, creates un ambiente caliente and has made Henry the Salsa community's most beloved disc jockey. Born in New York City’s ‘Spanish Harlem’ and of Puerto Rican descent, Henry's love for the music that makes his blood flow was born during family parties in New York City and childhood summers in Puerto Rico. It is here on this tropical island and in the clubs of New York City where he found his soul and learned to dance Salsa. A dancer, practically all his life—"My heart beats on clave" —he is known to hold his own on the dance floor and understands how to honor and inspire a Salsero. Henry has worked as a disc jockey, master of ceremonies, sound engineer, video jockey and promoter in major nightclubs and venues around the world throughout the span of his career. He spreads the beat and his love for Salsa rhythms on a global scale in what could be touted as Salsa evangelism! His extensive travels include appearances in over 45 countries and 300 cities & islands throughout the United States, Canada, Caribbean, European Regions, Mediterranean, Middle East, Mexico, Central and South America and even Asia. He believes his travels are an opportunity to share his skills, talents and experience with aspiring disc jockeys. Henry has held workshops, sharing with his comrades how he works the floor and the latest and most effective mixing techniques. Aside from producing events, music remixes and productions, Henry tours the world working with the most important names in the Latin music industry. His background includes promotional work for major recording labels, such as BMG, WEA, RMM, for artists such as; Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Christina Aguilera and representation of artists such as; Marc Anthony, Ruben Blades, Spanish Harlem Orchestra, Willy’s NYC Salsa Project and the legendary New Swing Sextet, for which Henry is executive producer of their 2009 Grammy Nominated CD release titled “Back on the Streets… Taste Of Spanish Harlem Vol 2.” under the Cotique/Fania recording label. As the first official disc jockey for Salsa congresses held around the world; most notably the Bacardi World Salsa Congress, Henry is the consummate professional with more than 25 years of experience catering to the serious Salsero. He has created remixes and compilations for the RMM recording label, including the popular Bacardi Salsa Congress compilation, which is still sold in record stores around the world. Some recognitions and awards include: LaMusica.com Recognition Award (Copacabana, NY 2001), Andy Award (Puerto Rico 2002), Top Int’l DJ Award (UK 2003), Lifetime Achievement Award (Los Angeles, CA 2003), Latin Beat Magazine Honoree “Siempre Salsa Fest” (NYC 2003, 2005, 2006) & Int’l Salsa Ambassador Recognition (Eilat, Israel 2006)… just to name a few.
For over four years, Henry promoted and hosted “Simply Salsa Mondays” at El Flamingo, which was recognized as New York City’s hottest Salsa dance party. Live music was featured every Monday and frequented by Salsa Lovers from all over the world. Some acts featured include names such as: Johnny Pacheco, Spanish Harlem Orch. with Ruben Blades, Andy Montañez, Larry Harlow, Azuquita, Lebron Brothers, Johnny Colon & New Swing Sextet…to name a few. Henry now continues to host parties at Taj Lounge in NYC and his goal is to maintain the presence of Latin music in NYC by introducing it to the Salsa dancers…especially the newcomers. Salsa...Fuel for the Soul! Henry Knowles Website
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