THE EXHIBIT: A TIDBIT OF HIS-STORY
There's so much to know about the evolution of Latin music. The following is a just a little slice of a timeline. Mercado Project: The Man Behind The Music ™ is a journey through a significant 50 year span: touching upon the politics, the social life, the culture and the economics of it all.
It transcends the historic time period of the Salsa Explosion, from one of it's heaviest promotors, the legendary Ralph Mercado, through the eyes of his daughter Damaris L Mercado.
Beyond the music, MERCADO PROJECT: The Man Behind The Music ™ highlights the passion, grit and perseverance of a visionary and pioneer, and the many examples of entrepreneurship of a man who took active steps towards “Making IT Happen”.
This video is a snippet of an exhibit held at Museum Village in the Mid-Huson Valley region of New York. It is a walk through reflection of the day & community.
The Man Behind The Music
The Man Behind The Music
The Man Behind The Music
Since a young age, Ralph Mercado had been in love with Latin music. Being first-generation to United States soil, he was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, where he started throwing dance parties in the mid-1950's as a teenager.
His parents were of Puerto Rican and Domincan descent, and he was the youngest of 6 children. He took great p
Since a young age, Ralph Mercado had been in love with Latin music. Being first-generation to United States soil, he was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, where he started throwing dance parties in the mid-1950's as a teenager.
His parents were of Puerto Rican and Domincan descent, and he was the youngest of 6 children. He took great pride in being able to provide for his family since his father died suddenly when Ralph was only 16 years old.
Ralph Mercado had a dream that he pursued to ensure he didn't live a life of poverty. He enriched his mind and focused on achieving his goals. While working in the garment district he made connections and grew his crew steadily, promoting and producing small shows and dances, making his mark as a promoter of the music known worldwide today.
The Body Of Work
The Man Behind The Music
The Man Behind The Music
From the mid-1950's through the mid-2000's, Ralph Mercado was able to promote, present, book, manage, and executive produce numerous Latin music events, artists, recordings and bring the music to all corners of the world.
Working with some of the greatest musicians, singers and talent he helped to further rise their fame and fortunes. No
From the mid-1950's through the mid-2000's, Ralph Mercado was able to promote, present, book, manage, and executive produce numerous Latin music events, artists, recordings and bring the music to all corners of the world.
Working with some of the greatest musicians, singers and talent he helped to further rise their fame and fortunes. Notable artists such as Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Eddie Palmieri, Marc Anthony, La India, and many more were exposed to ever growing audiences and record sales.
He produced Latin music concerts at elite venues such as Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Beacon Theatre and Radio City Music Hall.
Keeping The Legacy Alive
The Man Behind The Music
Keeping The Legacy Alive
As his daughter, I'm very fortunate to be a part of Ralph Mercado's legacy and feel it is my duty to share some of His-story along my journey in this lifetime. Having worked by his side for a few years running production and manufacturing for the RMM record label and working on concerts and music videos for several of the artists, I have
As his daughter, I'm very fortunate to be a part of Ralph Mercado's legacy and feel it is my duty to share some of His-story along my journey in this lifetime. Having worked by his side for a few years running production and manufacturing for the RMM record label and working on concerts and music videos for several of the artists, I have a few stories to tell.
In these early stages, this Virtual Exhibit & Speaker Series are small but the significance is BIG. MERCADO PROJECT: The Man Behind The Music ™ provides some behind-the-scenes insight, while connecting with culture, engaging in dialogue, and learning a few things. We'll listen to some great music and hopefully dancing as much as possible. I truly hope we are able to work together soon!
All the Best!
Damaris L Mercado
ABOUT THE FOUNDER + CURATOR
Damaris L Mercado is a creator, producer, educator, mother of two budding men, and a daughter of the late music empresario Ralph Mercado. As a coach, consultant, teacher, archivist, and dedicated lifelong learner, Damaris launched this project to support her mission to document history, elevate culture, and empower people through community-based learning.
Click here to find out more about Her-Story and the work she does.