Freestyle music never dies. Infectious sounds have been part of New York culture from the late 80s to early 90s, turning out yet again at Resorts World Casino last Friday, October 24.
The marquee lights shone brightly down on one of the crowned jewels of freestyle music, George LaMond, as he celebrated his 25th anniversary for all of us Freestyle Freaks! The venue lights dimmed, stage lights were bright and musical celebrities were sitting front row as the show was ready to begin. It was a different type of show. Most freestyle shows are set up with acts who sing a song or two and exit, making way for another (with help of a DJ or back up dancers, of course). George LaMond set his show up differently. With the assistance of a full band, the Latino legend of freestyle music spend his entire 2-plus hour run performing onstage.
Freestyle talent shines with acts like TKA, Judy Torres and LaMond. I believe George LaMond would have been a star in any genre in any generation. He is the embodiment of an entertainer. The setup Friday played directly to what freestyle is. LaMond sang, told some stories about his experiences on road and his family. The Las Vegas-esque scene included LaMond’s friends Soavé, K7 and Latin based R&B singer Frankie J, who each performed duets with the man who has been a rhythmic mainstay for more than two decades.
Scarlett Santana (left) and Frankie J
George LaMond sings a duet with a fan, Ana he pulled up from the stage at Resorts World Casino October 24, 2014
OMG moment of the night…
George LaMond pulled an audience member, Ana, out of the crowd and did a duet with her. He explained that before the show he heard her singing all the freestyle hits and was impressed. He invited her up and Ana did not disappoint. She was fabulous.
The night went from Freestyle, to Pop to Salsa. LaMond made a good point. After the Freestyle boom ended, these artists did not disappear. La India transitioned to the Salsa and was labeled the “Princess of Salsa.” Frankie J started a successful Latin singing career; Marc Anthony is one of the best Salsa singers in the world. George LaMond himself is as well-known for his salsa songs as he is for his work in Freestyle. This musical genre never dies: It has simply transitioned its Latin-inspired rhythm to salsa and music most relevant for this decade.
Lovely fans Jessenia and Scarlett grace the red carpet for George LaMond’s concert at Resorts World Casino NYC
The red carpet for this event was graced by LaMond, K7, the GQ model of freestyle Soavé, Robert Clivillés (RIP David Cole), Frankie J, Model Jessenia Vice, Singer/ Songwriter Scarlett Santana just to name a few. This was a celebration fitting a king!
LIB thanks George LaMond for a memorable night and a beautifully harmonious 25 years!
John Milovcic is a writer and photographer with LIB Magazine. He received his B.S. from Long Island University, C.W. Post, in Management and Finance. John has been a weekly contributor for LIB Magazine since February of 2013. His “man on the street” approach to covering events does bring the reader backstage with him. Under John’s belt is a completed screenplay and novel along with a range of poetry. He is the founder of Drunk Philosopher Photography and can be reached at 1drunkphilosopher@gmail.com.
