Alt.Latino: A Tribute to Felix

Summary

Podcast Summary: All Songs Considered - Alt.Latino: A Tribute to Felix

Release Date: September 10, 2025
Host: Ana Maria Sayer (with Felix Contreras)
Episode Theme:
A joyful and moving surprise tribute to Felix Contreras, co-founder of NPR Music’s Alt.Latino, celebrating his career and recent honor—the Hispanic Heritage Award for Journalism. Colleagues, musicians, friends, and family share personal stories, music, and thanks for Felix’s decades of dedication to spotlighting Latino culture and music.

---

Main Theme & Purpose

This special episode is framed as a heartfelt, celebratory look at Felix Contreras’s life, achievements, and influence as he receives the Hispanic Heritage Award for Journalism. Hosted by Ana Maria Sayer, it features surprise guests (musicians, journalists, family), audio clips, dedications, and moving reflections. The episode foregrounds Felix’s unique impact as both a culture-shaping journalist and a musical force—showing why he’s so beloved in the Latinx music world.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Surprise Tribute Setup & Recognition

• [00:22 – 01:38]
  The episode opens with Felix unaware he is the honoree. Ana Maria Sayer and Daimeiro Sena (Daime) surprise him, revealing the tribute and explaining his Hispanic Heritage Award is the day’s anchor.
  • Quote:

    "Today, against your will, as I love to do all things, we're doing a tribute episode to you and your incredible career."
    — Ana Maria Sayer [01:38]

2. Felix’s Early Life & Musical Roots

• [02:20 – 06:36] Daime leads a biographical introduction—Felix’s upbringing in a lively, musical Mexican-American family, Del Paso Heights, CA.
  • Felix describes a household filled with cumbia, cha cha cha, rock, norteño, mariachi, and jazz.
  • Brothers as “first musical explorers,” each playing instruments.
  • His early love of jazz: initial exposure to jazz fusion in the '70s, then diving back into classic Miles Davis, and the discovery of salsa.
  • Salsa revelation story:

    "I walked into this little hall where [my friend] was playing for a wedding... and I heard the guajeo on the piano... and it was like the sky opened up and the light came in and hit me."
    — Felix Contreras [05:20]

  • Inspiration and icons: Dizzy Gillespie, Machito, Mongo Santamaria, Chucho Valdez.

3. Community Messages & Emotional Highlights

• [07:04 – 10:29]
  • Surprise call-ins from prominent musicians, including tributes and dedications, moving Felix to tears multiple times.
  • Special musical message from the Escovito family (notably the legendary percussionists).
  • Daime and Ana Marie frequently check on “Cry Watch.”
  • Quote:

    "You can't see him through your own tears. Yeah, me neither."
    — Ana Maria Sayer [08:47]

4. Felix’s Entry Into Journalism

• [11:09 – 13:50]
  • Daime interviews Felix about working in TV news at KSEE (NBC, Fresno) in 1977—shooting city council meetings, accidents, fires, later assignment desk.
  • Felix’s career-long devotion to exploring Latinx identity, culture, and representation.
  • Dedication from Carrie Rodriguez—shares how Felix championed her music blending Spanglish and Mexican traditions, affirming the worth of bicultural artistry.

    "I think more than anybody, you got it and you understood it and validated it and made me feel like it’s okay to share all of myself."
    — Carrie Rodriguez [13:19]

5. Love, Fatherhood & Miami

• [15:01 – 16:29]
  • Move to Miami for love: followed partner Barbara, later married, started family.
  • Fatherhood: the defining role.
  • Felix recalls being called “Dad” for the first time at NPR—profound personal moment.

    "It was the first time that I had been, like, really identified as a dad. Not musician, not journalist. I'm a dad."
    — Felix Contreras [15:44]

  • Message from NPR’s Isabela Gomez Sarmiento about Felix’s mentorship and encouragement.

6. Felix’s Impact on Cuban & Latin Music Visibility at NPR

• [18:23 – 21:06]
  • Carlos Ele I sends a musical greeting.
  • Daime credits Felix’s work for opening doors for Cuban musicians at Tiny Desk and NPR:

    "That opened up a whole world for Cuban independent artists, and that's mainly because of you."
    — Daimeiro Sena [20:34]

7. Reflections on Journalism Ethics & Visibility

• [23:20 – 23:49]
  • Felix notes the journalist’s discomfort at “being the story” instead of telling stories.

    "You don't want to be the story. It's like the second commandment... and it's, it's—I just have to get comfortable with it."
    — Felix Contreras [23:20]

8. The NPR & Alt.Latino Era

• [24:08 – 32:23]
  • Felix’s arrival at NPR and the birth of Alt.Latino.
  • Juanes (first-ever Alt.Latino guest) calls in, thanks Felix for his support, calling him foundational to not just his career, but Latin music at large in the US.

    "You have no idea how you and NPR and all the work you have done have changed my career, my life... many, many artists."
    — Juanes [24:37]

  • Discussion of Chicano movement influences, the role of music in expressing identity.
  • Ed Bella La Torta (Chicano movement figure) calls in:

    "You were out there... giving voice to our community. You were one of the people that made it possible."
    — Ed Bella La Torta [26:37]

  • Felix recalls covering UFW meetings in the 1970s:

    "Even back then in the 70s, it's always been an inspiration. So thank you for everything you do."
    — Felix Contreras [28:15]

9. Archival Highlights & The Art of the Obituary

• [29:14 – 31:26]
  • Ana Maria and Juanes play Felix’s first NPR review and an excerpt from his obituary for Ray Charles:

    "You knew it was Ray Charles after just one word: Georgia."
    — Felix Contreras [30:19]

  • Felix reflects on crafting this opening line and the weight of honoring musical titans.

10. Felix’s Legacy with Artists & Latine Community

• [32:23 – 36:46]
  • Ana Maria recalls Felix covering Los Tigres del Norte in Folsom Prison; their music and activism resonating deeply.
  • Jorge Hernández (Los Tigres del Norte) tells Felix:

    "The way that you send the message to the community is something to be proud of. The photos that you put on the history and the Latino community... we give you thank you for that."
    — Jorge Hernández [33:15]

  • Conversation pivots to family, “dad life,” and the cross-cultural bonds Felix forms; Juanes again calls Felix “an angel on the way.”

11. Final Surprise: Felix’s Sons Call In

• [36:53 – 38:37]
  • Alessandro and Joaquin, Felix’s two sons, call:

    "Hey, Pops. Congratulations."
    — Felix's sons [36:55]

  • They dedicate a song (“by Joe Arroyo”). Felix is overwhelmed.

12. Felix’s Reflections & Closing Words

• [39:17 – 39:36]
  • Asked what remains for him:

    "I'm still listening for the sound I never heard... that's what drives this whole thing... There's still stuff to do. I'm only 67."
    — Felix Contreras [39:22]

  • Light-hearted complaints of being “tricked” into staying up late to prep for a fake show!

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “I wish there was audiotape or videotape of me playing because I didn’t know what I was doing.”
  — Felix Contreras, recalling his first drumming [09:17]
• “You have changed the lives of so many artists. Not only do you support art, but you help people understand why we should care about it.”
  — Ana Maria Sayer [32:23]
• “Like when you find those angels on the way... Felix is one of those people. They want to change my life for sure.”
  — Juanes [35:47]
• “Nothing is possible without you guys, without your love, without your support. Everything I do is for you.”
  — Felix Contreras to his sons [37:10]

---

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:22 | Felix surprised—tribute setup
• 02:30 | Early life and musical roots
• 05:20 | Felix’s “salsa awakening”
• 13:19 | Carrie Rodriguez’s message about bicultural validation
• 15:44 | Felix first identified as “Dad”
• 20:34 | Daime credits Felix for opening NPR doors for Cuban music
• 23:20 | “Journalists don’t want to be the story”
• 24:08 | Founding of Alt.Latino, first guest Juanes
• 26:37 | Ed Bella La Torta—Felix giving voice to the community
• 30:19 | Writing Ray Charles’s obituary
• 33:15 | Jorge Hernández (Los Tigres del Norte) tribute
• 36:55 | Felix’s sons call in—personal highlight
• 39:22 | Felix: “I’m still listening for the sound I never heard.”

---

Tone & Style Notes

• The episode is deeply affectionate, playful, and celebratory, interspersed with tears, laughter, and musical dedications.
• Ana Maria and Daime playfully push Felix out of his comfort zone; Felix reacts with humility and gratitude.
• Messages and calls from across generations and borders showcase the multigenerational, multicultural reach of Felix’s work.

---

Conclusion

Alt.Latino: A Tribute to Felix is a rich, emotionally resonant celebration of Felix Contreras’ career as a pioneering journalist, musician, and advocate for Latin music and identity. His legacy is painted not just by stories, but by the heartfelt thanks of artists, activists, colleagues, and family, all echoing a single theme—Felix made a difference both on and off the microphone, and his quest for the next new sound, and his stewardship of community, continues.

---

For anyone new to Felix or Alt.Latino, this episode offers a window into why his voice has been so vital for a generation of musicians and listeners.

Transcript

[NPR Sponsor Announcer]

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[Ana Maria Sayer]

Are you thinking about how you're going to start this show?

[Felix Contreras]

I'm trying to think of something clever, something witty, something funny, and I'm coming up with a blank. So let's just start. From NPR Music, this is all it. Hello, I'm Felix Contreras.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

And I'm Ana Maria Sayer. Now, Felix, we're doing something different today.

[Felix Contreras]

What are we doing?

[Ana Maria Sayer]

I have a special surprise for you.

[Felix Contreras]

Okay.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Are you ready?

[Felix Contreras]

Yes.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Okay, let's do it.

[Felix Contreras]

Should I just start talking about my music or songs or what do we do?

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Yeah, you can start talking about your music, or you can say hi to Daimea Rosema.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my God. Damn, boy.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Gracias, Daimae, can you go ahead and take a seat right here, please?

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my gosh. What is going on, you guys? What is this? Oh, my God.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Okay, I have to explain to the listeners at home, for those who can't just see what happened, Daime, please properly introduce yourself. We just have a special guest who walked into the building.

[Daimiro Sena]

Hello, everybody. From NPR family, this is Daimiro Sena. And today we are celebrating him.

[Felix Contreras]

Imagine.

[Daimiro Sena]

Anyways, today this show is for you, my dear Felix.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my God, you guys, what is this?

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Okay. All right, let's buckle up because we have a lot to get to. So for people who don't know, Felix is about to receive the Hispanic Heritage Award for Journalism from the Hispanic Heritage foundation, which is a huge deal. And Daime is going to sing tonight as part of the festivities. So, Felix, today, against your will, as I love to do all things, we're doing a tribute episode to you and your incredible career. And Daimae is going to help us, along with a few other mystery guests that we will have coming on soon. Okay, Daime, are you ready?

[Daimiro Sena]

I believe so. This is going to be my first time interviewing someone. And can you imagine? I'm interviewing Felix.

[Felix Contreras]

Go for it, you guys.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Okay, Felix, this is what we're gonna do first, okay? We're gonna tell listeners all about your early life. Daime, mind doing the hon, Kicking things off?

[Daimiro Sena]

Okay, here we go. Joaquin Feliz Contreras was born in 1958 in Del Paso Heights, California, just outside Sacramento. He was one of four boys, right?

[Felix Contreras]

See?

[Daimiro Sena]

See? So can you tell me, El Mayor. Okay, so can you Tell me a little bit about your childhood, about your mom and your dad and your siblings.

[Felix Contreras]

So it was a very, very happy childhood. My mother, my father, they loved life. My mother loved music. We had music all the time. My dad likes to sing, he plays guitar. My mother loves to dance, loves to sing, likes to be at the party, you know, pacha and gando. We always had these big giant family parties.

[Daimiro Sena]

Oh, wow.

[Felix Contreras]

Lots of music. Cumbia, cha cha cha. Rock and roll North Daniel, Mariachi. And then my brothers, my younger brothers and I, they were like my friends. First musical explorers. Manny plays drums. Victor's a great guitar player, jazz guitar player. Mario used to play saxophone. So, yeah, very musical.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Felix, you are a huge lover of jazz. And obviously, so is our girl dying. What is it? I mean, when you first started getting into jazz, what is it that you were caring about? What were you listening to?

[Felix Contreras]

This was like 1972. I was 14 years old. 14, 15 years old. And it was a really healthy period of time back then when there was so much. It was like this period where it was going from acoustic to electronic jazz fusion. Oh, so Miles Davis, Weather Report. All of these bands that were playing all this combination of acoustic jazz and this new electronic jazz. So that's what I grew up listening. And I had to go backwards. I had to go back. I listened to electric Miles Davis first, and then I had to go back to listen to Sketches of Spain, all of that stuff.

[Daimiro Sena]

And what about Latin jazz?

[Felix Contreras]

Latin jazz? So I'm Mexican American. I'm from California. I'm Chicano from California. There is no Afro Caribbean influence in the culture. It was just something that I learned along the way. You know what it was? Daime. It's like one day. So this is like 1970 again. 1972. 73. There was this new music called salsa, right? Yes. And it was basically mambo, huaracha, you know, cha cha cha. It was already there, but Fania and everybody was doing something different with it. So I remember a friend of mine, we played soccer together and he was a drummer. He said, hey, I joined this band. It's a salsa band. You ought to come hear me. Hear the band. And said, check it out. Because I was like, I was interested. I was listening to Santana, right? So I heard all the congas and all that stuff. I said, yeah, go check it out. And I remember I walked into this little hall where he was playing for a wedding, and I heard the guajeo on the piano. El Tumbao. I see. And then it was like the sky opened up and the light came in and hit me. And ever since then, I think my Cuban past life was.

[Daimiro Sena]

Reveal.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Yeah, well. And at that time, there was this beautiful blend of jazz and Afro Cuban percussion happening. Who do you think of when you think, like, the meeting of jazz, the meeting of all of these sounds, Afro Cuban percussion, Where does your mind go?

[Felix Contreras]

Dizzy Gillespie. Chado poso from 1945. The very, very earliest. Earliest. And it was right about the time, too, when the record industry was re releasing all this stuff. Yes, Machito. Some recordings from Machito in 1947. You know, Tito Puente's early stuff. The record industry was rediscovering. Mongo, Santa Maria, Tambien.

[Daimiro Sena]

I was gonna mention all of those.

[Felix Contreras]

Guys, but you know them more than I did. They were. All of these records were coming out, and it was a great time because I go to Tower records in those.

[Daimiro Sena]

70S, as you said, there was like, Miles Davis and this electronic jazz happening and all of that. But we had someone that was as revolutionary as all of those guys, and that guy is Chucho Valdez.

[Felix Contreras]

He's probably the most important Cuban musician since, I don't know, Benny Morel, Al Gore.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Well, speaking of Felix, we have our first caller on the line right now.

[Felix Contreras]

Okay.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Hola, Felix.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my gosh. Maestro. Oh, my God. Wow. Gracias. Wow. Okay, ciao.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

How are we on on Felix Cry watch? How's it looking? Can you give everyone an update, please?

[Daimiro Sena]

I mean, I'm crying the same way.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

You can't see him through your own tears. Yeah, me neither.

[Daimiro Sena]

It's difficult for me because it is.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

So this is esto muyemo es super emoci? Nteno. And so obviously you just got the stamp of approval from el maestro on your drumming. You got your first drum in 1973.

[Felix Contreras]

That's right. You were asking me these questions in a sneaker.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Tell me about that first time when you started drumming, when you started playing. What was that like for you?

[Felix Contreras]

I wish there was audiotape or videotape of me playing because I didn't know what I was doing. I worked all summer and I saved up this money and I bought a pair of congas that were really bad, poorly made, poorly constructed, you know, And, I mean, it was early days. I had no idea what I was doing.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

So it's funny because around that exact same time, Fi the Escovito family was dominating the percussion world in the Bay Area. Pete was reigning champion. He was playing with Santana at the time. Sheila E. Was just getting her start too. No.

[Felix Contreras]

Yeah. I saw her, like, 75 or 76 with her dad's band, Azteca.

[Daimiro Sena]

So I have to say something to you. They heard you were being honored, and they wanted to share a few words with you. They sent you a special dedication conqueror to Congedo. Like, the whole family sent this beautiful video, and I hope you like it and enjoy it. Let's see how it goes. Felix, congratulations from the Escapo family. We love you so very much.

[Felix Contreras]

For fans, we're gonna play a little something. Gracious. Thank you.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Wow.

[Daimiro Sena]

I have to say that we definitely know you are a musician, but you have been honored today for your day job. Yes. You are a journalist, and I'm gonna talk a little bit about your history. Wait here. This is my first day journalist.

[Felix Contreras]

Okay. Okay. You know, you're doing good. You're doing good.

[Daimiro Sena]

So in 1977, you started working as a journalist. You work for KSEE, and that's part of NBC station, Right? It's NBC station, Fresno, California.

[Felix Contreras]

I see.

[Daimiro Sena]

Okay. You see, I'm doing my homework.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

And people who only know you from npr, they might be surprised about this, Felix, that you were actually in TV news. That's what you were doing there.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, yeah, yeah. I was a news photographer. I started as a paid intern, and I was videotape. I was shooting 16 millimeter film. You know, city council meetings. And then, because Fresno's a smaller market, you know, car accidents, fires, like, tragedy stuff. Right. That's what I did. I was a news photographer. I drove a live truck. Eventually, I was on the assignment desk sending people out.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

So much of your career, Felix, has been built on that, Right? Like, paying attention to identity, to our community as Latinos, to how we interact with each other, with the world, and it touches people's lives. I think even at this early point in your career, you were caring about these things. And I have a dedication for you that I think fits quite nicely with that concept. Here's Carrie Rodriguez from Austin, Texas.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my God.

[Carrie Rodriguez]

Theophelix, I can't tell you how much you have impacted my life and my music. You know, when my record came out in 2016, Lola, I was pretty insecure about sharing it with everybody. It just felt so real, and I was sharing so much of myself. And I had these songs, you know, that were like country songs with Spanglish living side by side with these old Mexican songs in Spanish. And I. I didn't know how people would take that. And I think more than anybody, you got it and you understood it and validated it and made me Feel like it's okay to share all of myself, and these two different sides of myself can live together.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

And.

[Carrie Rodriguez]

And that is something that is worthy of sharing. And I feel like ever since then, it's just helped me move forward in a more authentic way. So thank you.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

I love you.

[Carrie Rodriguez]

And also, I can't wait to dedicate this next song to you. This is a song that was released in the early 70s by a San Antonio group, the Royal Jesters, and it's called Yo Soy Chicano. All right, bye.

[Felix Contreras]

Wow. That's classic Texas mumbo. Cha cha cha. Oh, my gosh. Yes.

[Daimiro Sena]

Let's skip ahead a little bit.

[Felix Contreras]

Okay.

[Daimiro Sena]

You moved to Miami in 1998.

[Felix Contreras]

Yeah, Miami was the whole thing. I was there. I moved there because Barbara delalis, who was my girlfriend in Fresno, she got a job in Miami. So I just went out there, and then we eventually got married.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Ooh, Felix, Felix, move for love I.

[Daimiro Sena]

Did love Love move everything Love move everything and love move Felix.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

So everyone who knows you, Felix, knows that being a dad is the most important thing to you because that also happened in Miami.

[Felix Contreras]

No. Yes. Alessandro was born in Miami in 2000, and Joaquin was born here in Maryland.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Once we moved here, how did that change things for you, becoming a dad?

[Felix Contreras]

You know, there was this moment where when I first moved to NPA, when I first moved to D.C. and I was at NPR, and we were in some kind of diversity meeting. You know, it was one of the many diversity efforts. And so one of the exercises was pick this person. And then what's the first thing that comes to mind? And this guy named Victor Holiday, who is a very good friend of mine, he says, I pick Felix. And the word I think about is dad. And it was the first time that I had been, like, really identified as a dad. Not musician, not journalist. I'm a dad. I was all into it. I mean, I was, you know, strictly, like, very much, you know, dedicated. But it was the first time somebody identified me as a dad, and that was significant.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

I mean, I can say, as someone who's been mentored and loved by you, that I think what you're describing has completely impacted the rest of your career. And I've talked to so many people who say the same. Right. Who love you, who have felt mentored by you. I want to play another message that we have for you from NPR's Isabela Gomez Sarmiento.

[Isabela Gomez Sarmiento]

Hi, Fe, It's Isa. Congratulations on this amazing achievement. We're all so lucky to learn from you every single day. I still remember the very first time we met, it was six years ago to the day, my first day at npr. I was so scared to go up to you when I saw you in the building, because I already looked up to you so much. And then I did it. And I remember we sat out on the deck and had a coffee and just, like, chatted and had so much fun talking about the Grateful Dead and about our families and music. And you were the first person in a professional setting to sit me down and be like, hey, the things that you're interested in matter. Like, you don't have to justify them to anyone. If you care about covering something or if you care about writing something, you should just do it, because life's too short. And you're still one of my favorite people to bounce ideas off of and share music with. And you've always kept that really encouraging spirit. So thank you so much for always guiding me and guiding so many people. That's why if I had to pick one song to dedicate to you, it would be that is that of. Because you are so selfless and loving and kind to everyone around you. And we're all just lucky to be in your light. So thank you and congratulations.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

I have to bring another message for you from some of the most prolific, talented musicians in Cuba right now. Here's Carlos Ele I.

[Felix Contreras]

What a gift. Oh, my God.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Okay, so we're gonna pause here at this point in the story before we hop over. Daime does have to go. She has to go get ready for tonight. Daime, before you leave us, anything you would like to say to Theo?

[Daimiro Sena]

Felix, before we take a break, let me say this. A few days ago, someone put together many videos of the Cubans that have been in Tiny Desk. And that person was saying, okay, the first Cuban singer that was on Tiny Desk as Tiny Desk was daimero sena in 2015. And after that, many other Cuban artists has been showcased there. I didn't know we were making history. That opened up a whole world for Cuban independent artists, and that's mainly because of you.

[Felix Contreras]

It's an honor. It's me giving back. The Cuban music has given me so much. You misinterrupt. She has to sing tonight.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

I know. We're gonna take a quick break. Wipe your tears, Felix.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my go.

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[Ana Maria Sayer]

Felix, how you holding up over there? Oh my gosh, you guys, honestly, I've seen you cry a lot, but this definitely, this is record breaking stuff what.

[Felix Contreras]

You guys are doing with journalists. You don't want to be the story. It's like the second commandment. The first commandment for journalism is if mom says she loves you, make some calls to see if that's true. Okay? That's the first commandment. The second commandment is journalists don't want to be the story. So like all of this right now, like I'm the story and it's, it's. I just have to get comfortable with.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

It just for you deserve to be. You're a story worth telling.

[Felix Contreras]

Thank you.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Okay, so there's a lot more to come.

[Felix Contreras]

Okay. Okay.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

The story continues. We left off. You got yourself out of Miami, you moved to D.C. and you started at NPR 25 years ago. Now I'm going to invite someone to come help tell the second half of this story. Felix, do you remember who the guest was on the very first episode of Alt Latino.

[Felix Contreras]

Juanes.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

That's right.

[Juanes]

Hey, Felix.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my God. Migran amigo, look at you. Oh, my God.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Mystery person on the line, por favor. Can you introduce yourself for listeners?

[Juanes]

My name is Juanes. Juan Esteban Aristic from Colombia. I Met Felix almost 25 years ago. Can you believe it, man? Oh, my God, Felix, wow.

[Felix Contreras]

We've been through a lot, man. Lots of stuff. Good stuff.

[Juanes]

Crazy, man. I'm so happy and so proud of you, you know, because all things you are doing for Latin music in this country, just beautiful, man. I was listening to the interview before, and I was crying too, man. You have no idea how you and NPR and all the work you have done have changed my career, my life, not just my career, but many, many artists.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

You know, the thing Juan is about, Felix, is with all of this work he's done with musicians for Latinos, really. Right. Like, it's more than just the music. Because when Felix talks about the music, when he brings in beautiful music, he's never just talking about music. He's really talking about la lucha, right? Like, he's talking for all of us. And, Felix, you grew up in a time when the Chicano movement was alive. It was going strong. It was a moment, right, of Chicano pride, of Mexican pride, of Latino pride. And I do think that that has to have informed all of this work that you've done since, right, with these musicians.

[Felix Contreras]

Yeah, it's something that I got from my mother and my father. Never forget who you are, where you come from, you know, and our background, the Mexican American background, Chicano background. And then when I got to high school and I started reading more and reading newspapers and reading more about the Chicano movement in the 70s and then go to college even. Beyond that, you know, I think that that influences. Because, like, with Juan, it's still online here. You know, he's so proudly Colombian, but those messages is international. It covers everything, so you can be Colombian, but the messages of identity that people all over the world can identify with from wherever they're from. Uruguay, Espana, Lucacea, you know, Chicago, Illinois. Right.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

We have someone on the line who wants to congratulate you for what you've done for the culture.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Hi, Felix, how are you? This is Ed Bella La Torta.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my God.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

I just want to congratulate you. You have been so wonderful because you were out there. You're one of the first ones out there giving voice to our community, you know, giving presents to our community, you know, making our community important in what we were doing when we didn't have that many venues, as you know, at that time, to be able to share our stories and the important work that we were engaged in at that time. And you were one of the people that made it possible. So congratulations to you, and God give you many, many, many more years. You can continue your important work.

[Felix Contreras]

Senora. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I'm speechless. It was an honor to have you on the show. And I'll never forget when I met you for the first time here in D.C. and you told me that you were such a big jazz fan. That was such a big surprise. And to have you on the show and to do. That's one of my favorite shows, is when you took over as a DJ and you played all your favorite jazz tracks with social justice messages behind each track. And, of course, I can't thank you enough for the work that you do and that you're doing. And even right now, in this most important moment of our time, it's so reassuring to know that you are out there and that you're with us, that we're still Luciando. So, so gracias. Thank you so much. I'm. I. Thank you. I'm speechless.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Well, you're not speechless on the mic. Okay.

[Felix Contreras]

I remember, Honest, before you go, I remember going. When I worked in Fresno in the 70s, we would go to UFW meetings to cover UFW meetings from the. From Channel 24, where you and Cesar would come in and. And talk to the people in Parlier Fireball. All little places where you guys were. Were organizing. And it's always been. Even back then in the 70s, it's always been an inspiration. So thank you for everything you do.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Yeah. And we continue to work, you know, with my foundation, we continue to work in empowering our communities, bringing them together so that they can solve the issues that they have in their community. And the United Farm Workers is still going strong. We're so busy, and, you know, thank God we have people like you. Let's go forward. Thank you.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Okay, Juanes. So we did a little deep dive into Felix's archive, no?

[Juanes]

Yeah, Felix, we actually went into the artist and we found some of your early stories.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Man, we were like glasses on, burning the midnight oil, like, investigation. Felix, you guys. So here's a clip of your very first story on npr, Felix, about the Cuban pianist Omar Sosa.

[Felix Contreras]

Our reviewer, Felix Contreras says, this CD has the kind of rhythms you would expect in Cuban music, but with a twist. Cuban pianist Omar Sosa's new CD is all about rhythm. I'm so serious. Omar Sosa has been making music since he was a kid in Cuba. He started studying music at age 5, learning the traditional music and varied drumming styles of the island. As an adult, he fused those traditions with his love. That's crazy.

[Juanes]

You also got a reputation of being really good at writing obituaries. So here's one about the legend Ray Charles.

[Felix Contreras]

You knew it was Ray Charles after just one word. Georgia. Georgia. Yet Ray Charles started his career trying to sound like others. As a young musician struggling to make his way in the business, he emulated one of his early heroes, Nat Cole. He explained that attraction to Terry Gross of WH1. You know, you know, Juanes, in journalism, we do these. We do obituaries in advance for people who are of older age, you know, and I had to work on Ray Charles because he had announced that he had cancer, you know, and how do you encapsulate a life like that? He's such a foundational figure in American music. So I had everything done except the beginning. I didn't know how to start it. And I, like, this is the only time that I think that I come close to a songwriter because I didn't know how to start it. I didn't know what to say. And then I was in the shower one day and I just thought, you know what I said, you know, it's Ray Charles from just one word. And then hit the music, hear him say Georgia. And then that was it. That's the closest I've ever come to writing a song, is thinking about that line in the shower.

[Juanes]

That's beautiful, man. That's beautiful. Oh, man. And do you remember our conversation for that very first episode? Because why do you want to talk to me at that time?

[Felix Contreras]

It was Jasmine's idea. She said, you know, Juan is because we did a show about soccer songs. It was the very first show. I said, juanis is at the. At the World cup in South Africa, if we get an interview. And I remember thinking, what is not going to talk to us? Who are we? You know, and it was, you know, you were so kind and you've always been so supportive. And it gave me animo. It gave me enthusiasm. And Jasmine Tamien like to, like, if one believes in the project. And other musicians were starting to believe in the project that we were doing and that we were able to do for so long that it, you know, there must be a reason. There must be something. There must be a reason to keep going, you know, so, yeah, I have to thank you for your inspiration and for endorsing, you know. Cause then other people say, well, Juanes was on the show. This must be worth talking to.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Like Juanes has mentioned so many times already on this episode, you have changed the lives of so many artists. Not only do you support art, but you help people understand why we should care about it. This helps all of us Latinos, everyone see each other. And the story I always think of with you, Felix, actually, is when you went to Folsom Prison to watch Los Tigres del Norte play. So much of what they did that day was show every part of what it means to be Latino in this country. When I think of them and how they stand up for the community and shine a light on the unseen, I think of you. So I thought it was only appropriate to get them on the phone.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my God.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Felix.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my God.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

How are you? Wow.

[Felix Contreras]

Very good.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Very good. I wanted to congratulate you with this award. It means a lot for me because in the group Los Tigra del Norte, because the way that you send the message to the community is something to be proud of. The photos that you put on the history and the Latino community we give you. Thank you for that.

[Felix Contreras]

Hi, Senor Decorazon. Gracias. I don't know what to say. It's always. I mean, first of all, it's an honor to even be able to talk to you guys the first time we talk to you, and then to go to the prison and just cover you over the years and just be able to know that the importance that you guys have to the community, your songwriting, your songs, your history, and to be able to contribute to that and to lift it up and to illustrate it and shine a light on it. It's the deepest honor for me to shine the light on you, senor.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

We feel more proud of you because the way everything went and the Folsom prison was fantastic. It made me feel very confident what I was doing and very pleasant to meet you. And I'm very, very happy to be a companion to you. This morning.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

I think we're making all Latino history. We have Jorge de los Tigres del Norte and Juanes and Felix Contreras all on the phone together.

[Juanes]

Felix, you are a rock star, man.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my gosh.

[Juanes]

Oh, yes.

[Felix Contreras]

You are. Super.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Hello.

[Felix Contreras]

Okay. November Fronto.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

So, Juanes, one of the things that I love about you and Fee's relationship is that you share this amazing love of being dads. How has that connected the two of you?

[Felix Contreras]

We like, hey, Juan, is how you doing? How's the family? Sienfre.

[Juanes]

Oh, man. Yes, yes.

[Felix Contreras]

It's always before music, before. Wherever we are, backstage, comustan la familia. Because it's the most. It's the most important. It's the most important.

[Juanes]

See, I see Felix, like, a tear, you know, I feel like, Like. Like he's part of. Of my family somehow. Like, when you find those angels on the. On the way, you know? And when I came to this country, I didn't speak a word in English. I didn't know anything about, you know, this country. And years later, when I met Felix, it's like, okay, this is one of those people that. They want to change my life for sure. So I'm very, very thankful. When I hear my colleagues talking about you, I feel very, very emotional, you know, from the deepest side of my heart, because I really feel the same. So I'm happy that we all are recognizing your work, because it's kind of invisible, you know? Like, people know the artists, but most of the people doesn't know who are behind the artist. And you are one of those important persons for all. All of us. So it's beautiful for me just to start my day like this.

[Felix Contreras]

Gracious. No, that's dead.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

We have one last guest on the line who wants to say congratulations.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Can you guys hear me?

[Felix Contreras]

Yes. Hey.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Hey, Pops. Congratulations.

[Felix Contreras]

Those dogs, you have, both of them.

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Love you guys.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, hey, mijos. Oh, my God.

[Juanes]

Oh, man.

[Felix Contreras]

Thank you, mijos. Nothing is possible without you guys, without your love, without your support. Everything I do is for you guys and everything, man. Thank you so much. This is so. This is too much.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Ailey. Joaquin, do you have a song you want to dedicate to your dad to say congratulations?

[Various Callers and Guests (including Ed Bella La Torta, Jorge from Los Tigres del Norte, Alessandro and Joaquin - Felix's sons)]

Yes. It's by Joe Arroyo.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, gracias.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

All right, let's listen to it.

[Daimiro Sena]

Sam.

[Felix Contreras]

Wow. Thank you, mijo. Yeah, love you, too, man. Love you guys both so much.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Juanes, thank you so much for being here, for celebrating with us.

[Felix Contreras]

Gracias. Jus. Thank you.

[Juanes]

No, thank. Thank you guys for inviting me. Thank you, Felix And I feel honored to be here and to be your friend and just to know you, my friend.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my God. Thank you.

[Juanes]

Thank you so much, man.

[Felix Contreras]

Thank you.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

So I think that pretty much sums it up. Felix.

[Felix Contreras]

Ana, I'm gonna scold you.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Yeah, I know. You've been yelling at me with your fingers this whole time.

[Isabela Gomez Sarmiento]

I know.

[Felix Contreras]

You little sneaker.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

You've done so much already. Felix, do you have any things you still want to do?

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, yeah, there's. I'M I'm still listening for the sound I never heard. You know, that's, that's what drives this whole thing. And I hear it often. And then something else comes along. So, yeah, there's still stuff to do. I'm only 67.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

You're only 67.

[Felix Contreras]

And I have to scold you, too, because I stayed up late finding songs for a show that we were gonna tape. I was so sleepy.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

I literally, I was like, it's for a good cause.

[Felix Contreras]

I literally fell asleep at the computer and fell off the chair because I was like, up late. Like, oh, my God. But I got to get this done. But thank you. You have been listening to Latino from NPR Music. Noah Caldwell is back there grinning and running the audio.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

Lauren Migaki was our guest running the phone lines today.

[Felix Contreras]

Oh, my gosh. And the lovely ever present, never lacking for anything. Seraya Muhammad is executive producer of NPR Music.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

You have been listening to all Latino.

[Felix Contreras]

I'm Felix Contreras.

[Ana Maria Sayer]

I'm Ana Maria Sayer.

[Felix Contreras]

Thank you for listening. Thank you for doing this sneaker.

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