BRANDON ESPINOSA

Founder of The Salsa Project

Bronx, NY

Puerto Rico & Cuba

The Salsa Project is a movement rooted in getting more young people involved in Salsa music. The goal of this project is to protect, preserve, and ensure that Salsa does not die amongst the younger generations to come. "The Salsa Project" takes on a multi-disciplinary approach, which covers a docu-series, community engagement, events, and merchandise. The culmination of these four elements will help create a platform for all to engage, learn, and partake in our mission to keep the culture alive.

Do you have a favorite corner of the city? Why?

One of my favorite corners of New York City is at Wave Hill in The Bronx, NY. The fact that such a beautiful and peaceful garden and green-space exists amongst all of the chaos and hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle always brings some sort of calm. It is a place I often go to to reflect, meditate, and bask in the beauty of its surroundings. It is a hidden gem where I have created many memories both personally and with my daughters.

What does A Great Day in Ñiu Yor look like for you?

Definitely by a body of water! Even though New York doesn’t have the most pristine bodies of water, we would still be by a body of water with family and friends. Playing games, especially a few competitive rounds of dominoes. And of course, listening to music - Reggaeton, Plena, and of course my beloved Timba, paying homage to my Cuban roots - and obviously, la mejor Salsa del mundo, la Salsa de Puerto Rico. That’s what a great day in New York looks like to me - don’t forget about the good eats and beverages.

Photographed & Interviewed by Carolina Jiménez