PIX11, in association with 21 Events, will present a live celebration of Latin music at the 116th Street Festival in East Harlem on June 13, from 1 to 5 p.m. The event, broadcast live by PIX11, will feature a lineup of legendary performers and rising stars, reflecting the rich musical heritage of the Latino community. This announcement underscores the continued importance of the festival as a cultural gathering place in El Barrio, connecting audiences across the Tri-State area with the diversity and innovation of Latin music.
A key highlight of the festival will be a tribute to salsa icon Willie Colón, with performances by Luis Damon and Papote Jiménez, culminating in a special appearance by Grammy Award-winning artist Roberto Blades, who will perform the classic anthem "La Murga." Additionally, Tito Puente Jr. will perform, continuing the legacy of his father, Tito Puente, and introducing new generations to Latin rhythms. Freestyle and Latin music icon Safire, who grew up in Spanish Harlem, will make her first performance in the neighborhood where her career began, ahead of her Spanish-language album release in August 2026.
Michael Schwartz, Director of Sales for PIX11, emphasized the festival's role as a gathering place where music, heritage, and community converge. The PIX11 Stage will feature a diverse array of artists, including internationally acclaimed violinist Alfredo De La Fe, who celebrates his 60th anniversary in music. De La Fe, recognized as the first solo violinist to perform with a salsa orchestra, has worked with legends such as Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Willie Colón, Héctor Lavoe, Eddie Palmieri, and the Fania All-Stars.
The lineup also includes Colombian singer-songwriter Yuri Toro, former vocalist of Grupo Niche; veteran salsa vocalist Frankie Morales; Panama's Willie Panamá, known as "The King of Salsa Rap"; New York-based salsa project Fuego Taibori featuring lead vocalist David Sanchez; and emerging Bronx-based duo CRILL & CLOS, who blend Latin, pop, and urban influences. Ralph Paniagua, Managing Director of 21 Events, expressed honor in bringing together these talented artists for the live audience and broadcast.
The PIX11 Stage is produced by Ralph Paniagua, with musical production by Luis Miguel Cruz, co-production and music licensing by Martha Cancel, stage management by Pioantonio Ventura, and artist relations coordinated by Manuel Soba. The event is presented by PIX11 in association with 21 Events, reinforcing the station's commitment to showcasing cultural events that resonate with the community.
