Horse-drawn carriage rides right along side our stage at the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate in Oakland last Saturday night
Aug 6, 2019
¡Hola, mi Gente!
Thanks to those of you who came out last Saturday to our show, “An Intimate Evening 2019” at the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate in Oakland.Estaire Godinez lead our great band, Bob Crawford, David Belove, Celso Alberti, Beatrice Godinez and Yours Truly in 2 blazing sets of Latin and Brazilian jazz. We all wished we could do more of this…
For those of you who missed it, I have a public show coming up this Saturday Aug 10 at Havana in Walnut Creek from 9-11:30pm. I’ll be leading Estaire Godinez on Latin percussion and vocals and myself on guitar and vocals through a huge variety of music. Plus, I just learned today that we may have a very special guest sitting in: none other than the great Carlos Reyes on violin. Anyone who has seen him knows he always gives the night a huge lift! Details below. Don’t miss it!
Remember, too, that we have a cool version of my Trio which hasn’t played together publicly in many years making it’s debut at Havana in Walnut Creek on August 17.David Belove on bass and the great David Flores on drums. I’m really looking forward to playing with these two again! Details below.
See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES AUGUST 2019
Violinist Carlos Reyes may be dropping in on this Havana gig to kick up the excitement level even more
Saturday Aug 10, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. Rolando returns for this special series of duet engagements at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature the Latin percussionist-vocalist from George Benson, Ms. Estaire Godinez; and on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, Rolando Morales. Together they create a unique alchemy of excitement and fun. And just added to the mix, the great Paraguayan violinist Carlos Reyes may be sitting in to add his magic to the night. Don’t miss it! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
Saturday Aug 17, Walnut Creek Marriott, Lobby Lounge & Bar, 2355 North Main Street, Walnut Creek, 6-9pm. Rolandofinally returns to this popular East Bay hotel and gathering spot in the newly renovated lounge in the shadow of Mount Diablo, where you can enjoy your favorite cocktail, fine wines and a lovely full menu. Enjoy a sophisticated environment with an international clientele and great acoustics, perfect for Rolando’s vast repertoire on solo guitar and voice and your wonderful night out. Reservations: (925) 934-2000, https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/oakwc-walnut-creek-marriott/.
Sunday Aug 25, Pairings Wine Bar and Restaurant, 310 Main Street, Pleasanton CA 94566, 1:30-4:30pm. After almost a year away, Rolando finally returns to this exciting social hotspot in downtown Pleasanton. They’re introducing a new “Social Sunday”, which will be a wine sipping, live music “chill” event. Rolando will perform a mellower side of his repertoire on solo guitar and voice to help ease you into your Sunday. Free! www.pairingscellars.com, (925) 398-8846.
Friday Aug 30, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. The Rolando Morales Trioreturns to the East Bay! This version of the exciting trio makes its debut at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue, featuring for the first time at this venue, the exciting drummer from John Santos and Lauryn Hill, the powerful David Flores;the rock-solid bassist from Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, David Belove; and on guitar, guitar synth and voice, Rolando Morales. This is a rare treat, first time publicly in the East Bay in many years. Make your reservations early. It’ll fill up! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
CD SALES
If you would like to order a CD, read on. If you’d like to order our CD “Rolando Y Qué?!”, you can pick it up at my website, the gigs or by mail. They’re $15.00 at the gigs, or $17.00 by mail to cover postage and handling. TO ORDER THE NEWEST CD “ROLANDO, Y QUÉ?!” by mail: Send a check or money order payable to Rolando Morales for $17.00 for the CD and postage to Rolando Morales, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605. and I’ll send it to you. Let me know if you’d like it signed.
TO ORDER THE ORIGINAL “PASSPORT: 10th ANNIVERSARY EDITION” CD by mail, send $17.00 to the same address as above. Be sure to include your return address.
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales Group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
I learned some new challenging material for a big show coming up this Saturday night, much in the Brazilian Latin-jazz mode. On Monday we had our one rehearsal and played it for the first time. We’re about ready. With this crew, you can’t go wrong. And you’re invited.
ThisSaturday August 3, I’ll be joining forces with the charismatic Latin percussionist-vocalist Estaire Godinez for “An Intimate Evening 2019” at the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate in Oakland. They’ll have about 4 music stages, great catering, wine and beer tasting, tours of the mansion and so much more. It’s the ultimate all white attire summer party! And we’ll be playing with a slamming 6-piece band: Estaire Godinez who will be leading the band, Bob Crawford, David Belove, Celso Alberti, Beatrice Godinez and Yours Truly. Check out all the details below. It should be a really fun Oakland evening under the stars.
And that’s a great way to kick off our new August Calendar. We’ve got a few public shows in store for you, including a cool version of my Trio which hasn’t played together publicly in many years, making it’s debut at Havana in Walnut Creek on August 17.David Belove on bass and the great David Flores on drums. I’m really looking forward to playing with these two again! Details below.
See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES AUGUST 2019
Saturday Aug 3, “An Intimate Evening 2019,”Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, Event 6-11pm, our show about 6-9pm. Join us for the ultimate, all white attire summer party! Rolando Morales joins forces with Estaire Godinez who will be leading the band in this special performance at this historic Oakland venue. Take a ride in a charming horse-driven carriage and experience an unforgettable evening. Sample the finest cuisine provided by some of Oakland’s best caterers. Dance under the stars at the South Pond. Play in the game lounge. Tour the 117 year old Mansion. Enjoy the Gatsby Car. Relax in the Intimate Martini Bar and enjoy wine tasting. Live entertainment on 4 different stages and even more! Fun, right?
Leading the band will be the Latin percussionist-vocalist from George Benson and Prince, the charismatic Estaire Godinez; on guitar, guitar synth and voice, the passionate Rolando Morales; the drummer from Brazil who played with Airto and Steve Winwood, the exciting Celso Alberti; keyboardist who toured the world with Spearhead, Robert Crawford; the rock-solid bassist who played with Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, the great David Belove; and Estaire’s sister Beatrice Godinez lending her talents on vocals. See the website for all the headliner performances. General Admission $35. See the Events Page at www.anintimateevening.com to buy tix, for more info, including table options. Or call (510) 615-5555. Don’t miss it!
Saturday Aug 10, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. Rolando returns for this special series of duet engagements at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature the Latin percussionist-vocalist from George Benson, Ms. Estaire Godinez; and on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, Rolando Morales. Together they create a unique alchemy of excitement and fun. www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555
Saturday Aug 17, Walnut Creek Marriott, Lobby Lounge & Bar, 2355 North Main Street, Walnut Creek, 6-9pm. Rolandofinally returns to this popular East Bay hotel and gathering spot in the newly renovated lounge in the shadow of Mount Diablo, where you can enjoy your favorite cocktail, fine wines and a lovely full menu. Enjoy a sophisticated environment with an international clientele and great acoustics, perfect for Rolando’s vast repertoire on solo guitar and voice and your wonderful night out. Reservations: (925) 934-2000, https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/oakwc-walnut-creek-marriott/.
Friday Aug 30, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. The Rolando Morales Trio returns to the East Bay! This version of the exciting trio makes its debut at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue, featuring for the first time at this venue, the exciting drummer from John Santos and Lauryn Hill, the powerful David Flores; the rock-solid bassist from Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, David Belove; and on guitar, guitar synth and voice, Rolando Morales. This is a rare treat, first time publicly in the East Bay in many years. Make your reservations early. It’ll fill up! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
CD SALES
If you would like to order a CD, read on. If you’d like to order our CD “Rolando Y Qué?!”, you can pick it up at my website, the gigs or by mail. They’re $15.00 at the gigs, or $17.00 by mail to cover postage and handling. TO ORDER THE NEWEST CD “ROLANDO, Y QUÉ?!” by mail: Send a check or money order payable to Rolando Morales for $17.00 for the CD and postage to Rolando Morales, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605. and I’ll send it to you. Let me know if you’d like .it signed.
TO ORDER THE ORIGINAL “PASSPORT: 10th ANNIVERSARY EDITION” CD by mail, send $17.00 to the same address as above. Be sure to include your return address.
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales Group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
I’ve been flying under the radar yet again, doing more private events throughout La Bahia. That, as well as investing the hours it takes to create these opportunities and bring them to fruition.
I do love flexing my creative muscles to tailor my resources from small intimate parties to large-scale private events. I just did one for about 35 people and am putting things in place for another for about 2,000 people. So if YOU have an event coming up, small or large, know that I have the experience to fulfill your vision and needs. Send me an email or text and we’ll make it happen! rmusic@pacbell.net, (510) 282-7778.
This week, in addition to another private event, I’m doing another fun public duet show thisFriday June 14 with the irrepressible Estaire Godinez on Latin percussion and voice at Havana in Walnut Creek. When we do these, we like to dive deep into our repertoire into new, old and never done before tunes, including spontaneous new inventions that surprise even us. Make your reservations! Details below.
Then on Father’s Day, this Sunday June 16, Estaire invited me to play with her band in concert at the Dads and Jazz Festival at the Dunsmuir Historic Estate, also known as the Dunsmuir House in Oakland. The festival runs from 2-6pm, and we’ll be playing about 2:30-3:30pm. They’ll have 2 other bands and tons of activities your Dad will love. We’ll have a great Quintet featuring musicians you know and love. Check out all the details below.
This month I’m also happy to finally be returning to Barone’s in Pleasanton after being away 2 months. I’ll be there Friday AND Saturday June 21st and 22nd from about 7:30-10:30pm. Details below.
And last, I have the Rolando MoralesTrio appearing on Friday June 28 at Havana in Walnut Creek. This will be the first time bringing in this version of the trio into this venue: master musicians David Belove on bass, the great Celso Alberti on drums, and Yours Truly on guitar, guitar synth and voice. Reserve your seats early, because it will fill up. Details below. See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR JUNE 2019
Friday June 14, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. Rolando returns for this special series of duet engagements at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature the charismatic Latin percussionist-vocalist who played with George Benson and Prince, the entertaining Estaire Godinez; and on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, Rolando Morales. Together they create a unique musical alchemy, so don’t miss it! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
Sunday June 16, Dads and Jazz Fathers Day Festival,Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, Festival 2-6pm, our show about 2:30-3:30pm.Rolando Morales joins forces with Estaire Godinez who will be leading her band in this special performance at this historic Oakland venue. Celebrate your dad with an experience he’s sure to remember! Beer tasting, cigar lounge, golf challenge games, 3 bands and so much more. Fun, right? Leading the band will be the Latin percussionist-vocalist from George Benson and Prince, the charismatic Estaire Godinez; on guitar, guitar synth and voice, the passionate Rolando Morales; the drummer from Brazil who played with Airto and Steve Winwood, the exciting Celso Alberti; the rock-solid bassist who played with Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, the great David Belove; and Estaire’s sister Beatrice Godinez lending her talents on vocals. General Admission $35. Local food vendors on site. See www.DadsandJazz.com to buy tix, for more info, including table options. Don’t miss it!
Friday June 21, Barone’s Restaurant, 475 St. John St., Pleasanton CA, approx 7:30-10:30pm. After 2 months away, Rolando returns two nights in a row to one of Pleasanton’s premiere dining establishments. Enjoy exquisite meals and service, libations and Rolando’s vast repertoire in the lively Cocktail Lounge. See www.baronespleasanton.com, (925) 426-0987.
Saturday June 22, Barone’s Restaurant, 475 St. John St., Pleasanton CA, approx 7:30-10:30pm. Rolando returns two nights in a row to one of Pleasanton’s premiere dining establishments. Enjoy exquisite meals and service, libations and Rolando’s vast repertoire in the lively Cocktail Lounge. See www.baronespleasanton.com, (925) 426-0987.
Friday June 28, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. The Rolando Morales Trio finally comes to the East Bay! This version of the exciting trio makes its debut at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature for the first time at this venue, the exciting drummer from Brazil who played with Airto and Steve Winwood, the great Celso Alberti; the rock-solid bassist who played with Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, the great David Belove; and on guitar, guitar synth and voice, Rolando Morales. This is a rare treat, first time publicly in the East Bay. You won’t believe what just three guys can create! Reserve early. It’ll fill up. www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
CD SALES
If you would like to order a CD, read on. If you’d like to order our CD “Rolando Y Qué?!”, you can pick it up at my website, the gigs or by mail. They’re $15.00 at the gigs, or $17.00 by mail to cover postage and handling. TO ORDER THE NEWEST CD “ROLANDO, Y QUÉ?!” by mail: Send a check or money order payable to Rolando Morales for $17.00 for the CD and postage to Rolando Morales, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605. and I’ll send it to you. Let me know if you’d like .it signed.
TO ORDER THE ORIGINAL “PASSPORT: 10th ANNIVERSARY EDITION” CD by mail, send $17.00 to the same address as above. Be sure to include your return address.
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales Group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
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“Drew Youngs, Celso Alberti grooving with Rolando Morales at a private event last Saturday”
May 28, 2019
¡Hola, mi Gente!
I’ve been flying under the radar again, doing some private events that really kept me occupied. One kept me jumping for a couple months and we just finished it Saturday night. It was a performance with my 6-piece band, sound and lighting crew. I was proud of my guys: Celso Alberti, David Belove, Omar Ledezma, Drew Youngs, Bob Crawford, and Jeff Cressman running sound. We made our client very, very happy. No small feat, considering he played bass in the early days of the Eagles.
Remember, we can do this for YOU as well! Feel free to contact me if you have an event or party coming up and can use some live music. We’ll contour a package to meet your needs. Don’t be shy and contact us early!
This week is largely private again, but I do have a fun duet show coming up thisFriday May 31st with the irrepressible Estaire Godinez on Latin percussion and voice at Havana in Walnut Creek. It’s been several months since she’s performed with me at this venue. Last time, we really got the place going, and we certainly intend to do so again. Make your reservations! Details below.
We’ll have much more for you next month. I’ll have the full June Calendar for you next week after I confirm details. You can also check my website Calendar Page as we get closer, as I’ll probably be posting there before the letter goes out. See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
LAST PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR MAY 2019
Friday May 31, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx. 9-11:30pm. Rolando returns for this special series of duet engagements at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature the charismatic Latin percussionist-vocalist who played with George Benson and Prince, the entertaining Estaire Godinez; and on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, Rolando Morales. Together they create a unique musical alchemy, so don’t miss it! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
CD SALES
If you would like to order a CD, read on. If you’d like to order our CD “Rolando Y Qué?!”, you can pick it up at my website, the gigs or by mail. They’re $15.00 at the gigs, or $17.00 by mail to cover postage and handling. TO ORDER THE NEWEST CD “ROLANDO, Y QUÉ?!” by mail: Send a check or money order payable to Rolando Morales for $17.00 for the CD and postage to Rolando Morales, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605. and I’ll send it to you. Let me know if you’d like .it signed.
TO ORDER THE ORIGINAL “PASSPORT: 10th ANNIVERSARY EDITION” CD by mail, send $17.00 to the same address as above. Be sure to include your return address.
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales Group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
This email was sent to you for Rolando Morales: RMG, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605
Mother’s Day Sunday, May 12th, with Rolando Morales in Danville
April 30, 2019
¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo, mi Gente!
On Sunday, Mexico and much of the U.S. celebrates Cinco de Mayo, when in 1862 some 4,000 Mexican soldiers obliterated a highly experienced French Army and traitorous Mexican forces of 8,000 in Puebla, just 100 miles east of Mexico City.
Napoleon Bonaparte’s nephew, Emperor Napoleon III, had embarked upon a very aggressive foreign policy claiming territories in Algeria, Indochina, Lebanon and more with an army that had not been defeated in 50 years, including the Crimean War. He detested the United States and had designs on ruling over a new empire in neighboring Mexico. The French feared no one, including the U.S. which was embroiled in its own Civil War. (The French were also positioning themselves to provide arms to the Confederate Rebels.) And so with the finest modern equipment and up to date fashion (they were French after all), they invaded Mexico.
They got more than they bargained for in Puebla. Instead of being showered with flowers by the conservative clerical town, they were out-maneuvered by General Porfirio Diaz’ men. The French shot off half their ammunition in less than two hours. The battles ended with much of the French cavalry killed or wounded, chased on horseback through rain and mud, and with many dodging stampeding cattle and Indians armed only with machetes.
The French tried again over a year later. This time, the Union forces were rushed to the border after their victory over the Confederates to assist the Mexicanos in expelling the French. Perhaps this is one reason why thousands of Mexicanos crossed the border after Pearl Harbor to join the U.S. armed forces. And why so many again flooded American consulates with phone calls during the Persian Gulf War trying to enlist to fight for America.
This little history lesson is something to think about when we witness the thousands of Latin American families risking their lives today to seek help in our country, only to confront oppressive executive orders that separate their family members and penalize them at their most dire time of need. The ideals of freedom, liberty and upholding the fundamental values of human dignity should be celebrated in this country and shared by us all. Ajua!
Something tells me not many people will be thinking about this during my big Cinco de Mayo weekend of double-header gigs. And that’s fine! We’re out to have fun!
I haven’t played at Maria, Maria in over 4 months, but I’ll be there at Maria, Maria in Danville on Saturday May 4 from 12-3pm, where I’ll be kicking off the festivities out on the patio for revelers enjoying tequila, margaritas, comida Mexicana and my tailored repertoire. And I follow that thesame night with an appearance at the Walnut Creek Marriott from 6-9pm. Details below.
Then on Cinco de Mayo, Sunday May 5th, I continue at Maria, Maria in Danville on the patio again from Noon to 3pm. Lot’s of fun to be had there! And the same night, I shoot across the pond to the Tavern on 4th in San Rafael, the newly renovated and shiny new watering hole and live music venue for some Latin sounds, drinks and dancing. I played there last year for this event and they invited me back, so all you North Bay fans, come out and join me! Details below.
There’s much more below, including my classic Triodebuting on Friday May 17 at Havana’s in Walnut Creek! This will be special. Danilo Paíz on Latin percussion and voice; David Belove on bass; and Yours Truly on guitar, guitar synth and vocals. This will be the first time we’re playing publicly in the East Bay in many years, so don’t miss it!
There’s plenty more in your new calendar, including a Mother’s Day appearance, so check it out and make your reservations.
Ciao and see you at the show!
Rolando
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR MAY 2019
Rolando Morales on Saturday, May 11, at the Marriott in Walnut Creek
Friday May 3, Barone’s Restaurant, 475 St. John St., Pleasanton CA, approx 7:30-10:30pm. Rolando returns to one of Pleasanton’s premiere dining establishments. Enjoy exquisite meals and service, libations and Rolando’s vast repertoire in the lively Cocktail Lounge. See www.baronespleasanton.com, (925) 426-0987.
Saturday May 4, Maria, Maria Cantina Cinco de Mayo Event, 710 Camino Ramon Road, Danville CA, 12-3pm. Santana’s Danville restaurant kicks off their big Cinco de Mayo Weekend Party featuring live music through the weekend. After 4 months away, Rolando kicks it off on the Patio on solo guitar and voice from 12-3pm, while you enjoy your cervezas, margaritas and comida Mexicana. Then dance through the night to a fun party band indoors while the food and libations flow. (925) 820-2366, www.mariamariarestaurants.com.
Saturday May 4, Walnut Creek Marriott, Lobby Lounge & Bar, 2355 North Main Street, Walnut Creek, 6-9pm. Rolando returns to this redesigned East Bay hotel and gathering spot in the newly renovated lounge in the shadow of Mount Diablo, where you can enjoy your favorite cocktail, fine wines and a lovely full menu. Enjoy a sophisticated environment with an international clientele and great acoustics, perfect for Rolando’s vast repertoire on solo guitar and voice and your wonderful night out. Reservations: (925) 934-2000, https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/oakwc-walnut-creek-marriott/.
Sunday May 5, Maria, Maria Cantina Cinco de Mayo Event, 710 Camino Ramon Road, Danville CA, 12-3pm. Santana’s Danville restaurant wraps up their big Cinco de Mayo Weekend Party featuring live music through the weekend. Rolando kicks it off on the Patio on solo guitar and voice from 12-3pm, while you enjoy your cervezas, margaritas and comida Mexicana. (925) 820-2366, www.mariamariarestaurants.com.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at The Tavern on Fourth with Rolando Morales
Sunday May 5, The Tavern on Fourth, 711 4th Street, San Rafael, 7-9:30pm. After last year’s hit Cinco de Mayo debut at this newly renovated North Bay bar, Rolando was invited back to to bring some Latin sabor to the strip in San Rafael. Craft and classic cocktails, 18 Nor Cal draught beers and more. This is a special invite to you North Bay friends: Let’s pack the place! (415) 454-4044, www.thetavernonfourth.com.
Saturday May 11, Walnut Creek Marriott, Lobby Lounge & Bar, 2355 North Main Street, Walnut Creek, 6-9pm. Rolando returns to this newly renovated lounge in the shadow of Mount Diablo, where you can enjoy your favorite cocktail, fine wines and a lovely full menu. Enjoy a sophisticated environment with an international clientele and great acoustics, perfect for Rolando’s vast repertoire on solo guitar and voice and your great night out. Reservations: (925) 934-2000, https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/oakwc-walnut-creek-marriott/.
Sunday May 12, Maria, Maria Cantina Mother’s Day Brunch, 710 Camino Ramon Road, Danville CA, 12-3pm. Give your mom a special treat and bring her to Santana’s Danville restaurant. Brunch, mimosas and Rolando’s broad repertoire out on the Patio on solo guitar and voice. Speaking of roses, bring her here and you’ll be smelling like one. Be sure to make reservations! (925) 820-2366, www.mariamariarestaurants.com.
Friday May 17, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. The Rolando Morales Trio finally comes to the East Bay! The classic version of this exciting trio makes its debut at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature for the first time in years, the powerful Latin percussionist-vocalist from Nicaragua who played with Ruben Blades and Dizzy Gillespie, Danilo Paíz; the rock-solid bassist who played with Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, the great David Belove; and on guitar, guitar synth and voice, Rolando Morales. This is a rare treat, first time publicly in the East Bay. You won’t believe what just three guys can create! Reserve early. It’ll fill up. www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
Friday May 31, Havana Cuban Cuisine, 1516 Bonanza St., Walnut Creek, approx 9-11:30pm. Rolando returns for this special series of duet engagements at this fine Cuban restaurant and live music venue. Tonight will feature the charismatic Latin percussionist-vocalist who played with George Benson and Prince, the entertaining Estaire Godinez; and on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, Rolando Morales. Together they create a unique musical alchemy, so don’t miss it! www.havanarestaurant.net, (925) 939-4555.
CD SALES
If you would like to order a CD, read on. If you’d like to order our CD “Rolando Y Qué?!”, you can pick it up at my website, the gigs or by mail. They’re $15.00 at the gigs, or $17.00 by mail to cover postage and handling. TO ORDER THE NEWEST CD “ROLANDO, Y QUÉ?!” by mail: Send a check or money order payable to Rolando Morales for $17.00 for the CD and postage to Rolando Morales, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605. and I’ll send it to you. Let me know if you’d like .it signed.
TO ORDER THE ORIGINAL “PASSPORT: 10th ANNIVERSARY EDITION” CD by mail, send $17.00 to the same address as above. Be sure to include your return address.
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales Group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
This email was sent to you for Rolando Morales: RMG, 9028 Burr Street, Oakland, CA 94605
Rolando Morales , Estaire Godinez and David Belove will perform on Saturday July 23rd at Pairings Cellars in downtown Pleasanton.
Saturday July 23, Pairings Cellars, 310 Main Street, Suite B, Pleasanton CA 94566, 8-11pm. Rolando debuts at this brand new, exciting social hotspot in downtown Pleasanton. This new wine bar will feature fine wines, tapas and the Rolando Morales Trio, featuring from Prince and George Benson, the charismatic Latin percussionist/vocalist Estaire Godinez; from Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, bassist David Belove; and Rolando Morales leading the way on guitar, guitar synth and voice. Free! www.pairingscellars.com, (925) 398-8846.
Rolando Morales will perform Saturday July 23, Pairings Cellars, 310 Main Street, Suite B, Pleasanton CA 94566, 8-11pm with Estaire Godinez and David Belove.
Hola, Mi Gente!
If there has ever been a time for us to collectively channel our inner Martin Luther King, that time is now. Too many times now, listening to the radio while driving to or from a gig, I’ve heard heart-rending, breaking news of the latest violence inflicted in another American city.
One of the songs I’ve added to my repertoire of late, sadly, has been Stevie Wonder’s “Love’s In Need Of Love Today.” One of the lines goes: “Hate’s goin’ round breaking many hearts. Stop it please before it’s gone too far.”
I’ve had some special moments performing these kinds of songs for receptive audiences at Wente Vineyard, The Vineand even Maria, Maria in Walnut Creek. Some spoke to me with tears in their eyes on the breaks of how they were moved by the songs or appreciated what I wrote in these newsletters. It seems we all want the madness to stop. But the few with the demented will and the means to act perpetuate the violence. Better to remember Dr. King’s words:
“We must learn to live together as brothers, or perish together as fools.” March on Washington-1964
If you’re looking for healing energy and a fun escape from the news, remember that my Trio debuts this Saturdaynight, July 23 at a brand new Wine Bar, Pairings Cellars on Main Street in downtown Pleasanton, as part of theirGrand Opening month.We’ll have a ball playing in this intimate space with my great trio featuring the percussionist/vocalist from Prince, Estaire Godinez; the great bassist from Pete Escovedo, David Belove; and I’ll be there on guitar, guitar synth and voice. Details below. Don’t miss it!
The beautiful Estaire Godinez and David Belove
There’s still much more left in this second half of the calendar. Make your reservations and I’ll see you at the show!
Rolando Morales , Estaire Godinez and David Belove will perform on Saturday July 23rd at Pairings Cellars in downtown Pleasanton.
Rolando Morales Performances July 2016
Thursday July 14, Vine at Bridges, 480 Hartz Avenue, Danville, approx 7-10pm.After 2 months away, The Rolando Morales Duet returns to this cool winery and nightspot for its only Thursday night appearance, coinciding with the Danville Car Show. Enjoy a wonderful selection of wines, superb dinners and munchies while enjoying this powerful duet. Tonight Rolando reunites with the Latin percussionist/vocalist from Uruguay, the leader of Candela,Edgardo Cambón; and on guitar, voice and his pedal board of magic, the passionate Rolando Morales.Don’t miss it! www.thevineatbridges.com, (925) 820-7210.
Friday July 15, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6 to 9 pm. Rolando returns on solo guitar and voice in the intimate Restaurant Room.(650) 589-1163 and see www.donpicosbistro.com.
Saturday July 16, Wente Vineyards, Estate Winery and Tasting Room Patio, 5050 Arroyo Road, Livermore CA 94550, 1-5pm. Rolando’s first public Wente appearance was a hit, so he returns a second time. Enjoy a superb wine tasting experience on the lovely Wente Estate and enjoy Rolando on solo guitar and voice out on the patio among the lush grounds of the Estate Winery. www.wentevineyards.com/tasting-rooms/estate-winery-tasting-room.
Sunday July 17, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm. Enjoy a Mexican brunch at Carlos Santana’s lively cantina and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek. He may be joined by Bob Harrison on flute.www.mariamariarestaurants.com, (925) 946-1010.
Friday July 22, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6-9 pm. Rolando returns on solo guitar and voice, now in the intimate Restaurant Room. Call (650) 589-1163 and www.donpicosbistro.com.
Saturday July 23, Pairings Cellars, 310 Main Street, Suite B, Pleasanton CA 94566, 8-11pm. Rolando debuts at this brand new, exciting social hotspot in downtown Pleasanton. This new wine bar will feature fine wines, tapas and the Rolando Morales Trio, featuring from Prince and George Benson, the charismatic Latin percussionist/vocalist Estaire Godinez; from Pete Escovedo and Tito Puente, bassist David Belove; and Rolando Morales leading the way on guitar, guitar synth and voice. Free! www.pairingscellars.com, (925) 398-8846.
Sunday July 24, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm. Enjoy a Mexican brunch at Carlos Santana’s lively cantina and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek. He may be joined by Bob Harrison on flute. (925) 946-1010 to www.mariamariarestaurants.com
Thursday July 28, The San Jose Fairmont, Lobby Lounge, 170 South Market St., San Jose CA, 9pm-Midnight. Rolando returns for you South Bay fans to this elegant venue. Celebrate the night with fine wines, unique martinis, appetizers and sushi along with the Rolando Morales Duet, this time featuring the Latin percussionist/vocalist from Dizzy Gillespie, Danilo Paíz; and Rolando Morales leading the way on guitar and vocals and his magic pedal board. Free! Seewww.fairmont.com/sanjose/for info, or call (408) 998-1900.
Friday July 29, Don Pico’s Mexican Bistro, 461 El Camino Real, San Bruno, 6-9 pm. Rolando returns on solo guitar and voice, now in the intimate Restaurant Room. Call (650) 589-1163 and www.donpicosbistro.com.
Sunday July 31, Maria, Maria Cantina, 1470 North Broadway, Walnut Creek, approx 2-5pm. Enjoy a Mexican brunch at Carlos Santana’s lively cantina and Rolando performing on the newly renovated front patio on solo guitar and voice by the creek. He may be joined by Bob Harrison on flute.(925) 946-1010. www.mariamariarestaurants.com
All other shows are private. Why not hire Rolando for your own private event? He’s available for corporate shows, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals. The Rolando Morales group is available as sextet, quintet, quartet, trio and duo depending on your entertainment needs and budget.
“True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice.”
Martin Luther King, Jr., Stride Towards Freedom, 1958
Hola, Mi Gente!
It’s been a tough week for our country. So much tragedy and violence, needlessly inflicted. We feel burdened with pain and anger. We’re reminded of how little some things have changed over the last six decades. How do we as a nation move forward?
I thought President Obama delivered a beautiful, powerful speech today at the memorial for the five fallen officers in Dallas. Playing the role yet again of Consoler in Chief, he helped the nation cope with the violence which has traumatized our country, while at the same time, eloquently compelling us to admit to the real racial oppression that people of color experience daily. He urged us to listen to one another, to find the similarities that unite us and to empathize with and acknowledge the real pain each side experiences.
I was encouraged to hear him say that “we will need to act on the truths that we know. And that’s not easy, it makes us uncomfortable. But we’re going to have to be honest with each other and ourselves.” That’s the way forward.
At all my performances, I have been including special songs to ease our hearts and souls in these trying times. Even at last Saturday’s Sausalito Seahorse performance, our world class band played a rendition of Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Goin’ On?” to an appreciative audience. Big thanks to Carlos Reyes, Estaire Godinez, Celso Alberti and David Belove for their talents, and to all of you who packed the Seahorse again.
This Thursday I’m doing a special show at The Vine at Bridges in Danville on Thursday July 14 with my talented buddy from Uruguay, Edgardo Cambón. I’ve been away from there for a few months, and they’ll have the 2016 Danville Hot Summer Nights Hot Rod and Classic Car Show happening right outside, so it’s definitely worth coming out for. Details.
I’m also returning to Wente Vineyards this Saturday July 16 from 1-5pm on solo guitar and voice. Details.
I’m also excited to be part of the Grand Opening of a new Wine Bar, Pairings Cellars on Main Street in downtown Pleasanton. We’ll be kicking off our appearances there next week Saturday night, July 23 with a great trio featuring the percussionist/vocalist from Prince, Estaire Godinez; the great bassist from Pete Escovedo, David Belove; and I’ll be there on guitar, guitar synth and voice. Details.
There’s so much more in store. Just check out the calendar, make your reservations and I’ll see you at the show!
Full Rolando Morales Quintet to perform Saturday July 9, 2016 at Sausalito Seahorse
Saturday July 9, “An Evening with Rolando Morales and Carlos Reyes,” Sausalito Seahorse, 305 Harbor Drive, Sausalito, approx 8:30-11:30pm. These two passionate musicians finally return to The Seahorse to put on their unique show at this fun waterfront restaurant and club. The great Paraguayan harpist/violinist Carlos Reyes and passionate guitarist/vocalist Rolando Morales will play a short set in duet to close out the dinner hour, followed by a concert and dancing to the World Class Rolando Morales Group featuring from the Pete Escovedo Orchestra, the rock-solid bassist David Belove; from Brazil, the exciting drummer from Airto and Steve Winwood, Celso Alberti; from Prince and George Benson, the Latin percussionist/vocalist Estaire Godinez; from Paraguay, the thrilling violinist and harpist from Arturo Sandoval and Steve Miller, Carlos Reyes; and the powerful Rolando Morales leading the journey on guitar, guitar synthesizer and vocals. Don’t miss it! $15. Make your reservations at (415) 331-2899. www.sausalitoseahorse.com
