Episode 23: Preserving Salsa History & Culture with Willy Rodriguez

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In this powerful and mission-driven episode of The Modern Latino Podcast, we sit down with Willy Rodriguez, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the International Salsa Museum, to discuss the past, present, and future of salsa music.

Willy shares his journey as a professional pianist, musical director, and producer who began his career at just 15 years old and went on to perform worldwide with legendary artists and orchestras. From serving as musical director for the Tito Puente Jr Orchestra to touring globally with his band La Excelencia, Willy reflects on the moments that shaped his career and deepened his connection to the power of music.

We dive into the current state of salsa music, the responsibility of preserving its legacy, and what inspired Willy to launch The Valens Agency—a boutique entertainment agency dedicated to supporting artists, businesses, and cultural institutions. He also shares the deeply transformative experience of a salsa tour through Haiti, where he witnessed firsthand how music can heal, inspire, and change lives.

A major focus of the conversation centers on the creation of the International Salsa Museum: why it matters, the progress made so far, and the challenges that still lie ahead. Willy explains the importance of building a permanent space dedicated to the history, education, and future of salsa music for generations to come—and how the community can play a role in making this vision a reality.

This is an inspiring conversation about culture, purpose, and giving back. A must-listen for salsa lovers, musicians, cultural advocates, and anyone passionate about preserving our stories through music.

🎶 If you love salsa music and believe in its legacy, this episode is for you.

For more information about the International Salsa Museum and to donate, please visit:

Website – The International Salsa Museum

Curated Spotify Playlist - Que Viva La Salsa!

Willy’s Instagram - @WillyTheProducer

Instagram - @intlsalsamuseum

Facebook - IntlSalsaMuseum

Youtube - @intlsalsamuseum6571 

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The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.