Tr3s

Ok. Now for the new on music.

Tr3s. Or “tres” in Spanish.

It’s a new music channel I stumbled across on one of the random number channels you get in the zillion channels available to all of us these days.

The channel is as much a bi-cultural entertainment destination as any station as there is.

It is rooted in a seamless fusion of Latin American and American music weaving through some interesting cultural aspects, and languages, bringing the biggest names in Latin American based music to the forefront. I like that it celebrates Latino culture, music and artists, and English-subtitled programming in Spanish imported from the MTV España and MTV Latin America channels.

While I don’t understand all the Spanish … good music is good music.

In addition it is slightly humbling to see the younger latino artists seamlessly shifting back and forth between Spanish & English as they talk about their music.

The station does a nice job of mixing in the truly well known international latino artists <there is a neat interview with Ricky Martin who speaks in Spanish and English where he is asked by Pitbull … who also asks the question weaving between Spanish & English … if he will rule the word again and Ricky responds “no, it is your turn my friend”> and the newer contemporary hip hop artists.

On a separate note.

This may be a naïve thing on my part as an observation but there seems to be a true, almost charming, camaraderie between the latino artists when they speak about each other, and with each other, that you certainly do not see within American artists. It could simply be editing in how they achieve that feeling but for now I will gladly dwell in my naiveté and enjoy the belief that there is some true affection, and respect, between the artists that is possibly a cultural thing.

Ok.

The music.

Let me begin with Juanes. He does an unplugged show that is frickin’ priceless. It is clearly latino musically but lyrically & melodically weaves in the best of pop. He kind of makes me think of a more pop oriented Rodrigo y Gabriela (who’s music I love). Regardless. The dude is good. The music better than good.

Juanes –‘ La Señal’ (MTV Unplugged): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ez8vsao_Uik

Next.

I included this mostly because of the video <although the song is good>. It is a shame this is not more prevalent on American MTV/VH1. The message is internationally relevant and a strong messge for young people and their parents. Powerful powerful video and message.

Camila – ‘de que me sirve la vida’: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YhoejhnW8w

Next.

A brother & sister. Nice songs. Charming team. Good sound. Listening to them you would tend to believe as they mature they should have some crossover songs.

Jesse & Joy – ¡Corre!: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2hM9CLAMu4&feature=related

Jesse & Joy – La De La Mala Suerte: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0eIhlsks4s&feature=relmfu

Next.

I had to include this because it showcases the contemporary latino music. Oh. And it is good.

Gocho – Si Te Digo La Verdad (Mambo Mix): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuGWb6aQFZw

Next.

Ok. This kid must be like the Chris Brown of Latin America <I am guessing that>. He has the style, charisma, hooky upbeat sound … and attitude. He goes by Prince Royce.

Prince Royce – ‘Incondicional’: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpzT6Wq6pKY

Lastly.

I just included this because it is nice.

Julieta Venegas – ‘Mírame Bien’ (MTV Unplugged): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tC_p0KJCNow&feature=related

Tr3s. I have no clue where it would be on your channel listing but if you like music and you want to hear something beyond the typical schlock we get to listen to check it out.