About Latin Jazz Network

Celebrating 26 Years of Latin Jazz Network

By Danilo Navas – Founder and Editor-in-Chief

In 2026, Latin Jazz Network (www.latinjazznet.com) proudly marks its 26th anniversary—a milestone that celebrates a quarter-century of passionate advocacy for Latin jazz and the creative voices that shape it. Since its founding in 2000, Latin Jazz Network [LJN] has served as a vibrant hub for musicians, fans, and scholars alike, dedicated to promoting the music and the culture surrounding it.

Latin jazz—originally a fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms and American jazz—has grown into a diverse and dynamic genre embracing the musical traditions of Latin America, with a Pan-American spirit that reflects a rich cultural mosaic. Latin Jazz Network has chronicled and celebrated this evolution from its very beginning.

26 years ago, I thought of creating this website with the idea of providing an online platform to promote Latin jazz music and artists. I am a passionate communicator and arts advocate based in Toronto, Canada. As a web publisher, webmaster, music journalist, cultural connector and arts administrator, I have made it my mission to spread the word about this wonderful music now known under the umbrella term “Latin jazz.” With an unwavering commitment to it, I have built a digital space that showcases the music’s deep roots and global impact through artist profiles, album and concert reviews, interviews, featured articles, latest news, photo galleries, playlists, podcasts and cultural commentary. But I haven’t done that alone. There’s a long list of like-minded people who have contributed to keeping this project alive.

The creation and ongoing work of the Latin Jazz Network have been deeply inspired by the pioneering efforts of the Latin Jazz Yahoo! Group. In particular, the contributions of founders Luis Moreno and Gregory “Goyo” Fernando Pappas deserve heartfelt recognition. Their early efforts in cultivating community dialogue and promoting Latin jazz online laid the groundwork for the digital advocacy that LJN would carry forward and expand.

As LJN celebrates this significant anniversary, we also extend profound gratitude to the many collaborators who have helped shape the platform over the years. Their passion, insight, and dedication have made Latin Jazz Network a trusted and respected voice in the global music community.

A special thank you goes to:
– Tomás Peña, music journalist, co-editor and senior writer for many years, whose editorial guidance and sharp musical ear have enriched the site’s content and direction.
– Raul Da Gama, senior writer and music critic, whose scholarly depth and poetic prose have elevated countless reviews and artist features that have helped many artists to promote their music and artistry.
– Chico Álvarez Peraza, music writer and cultural historian, whose contributions have brought historical depth and authenticity to our pages.
– Paul J. Youngman, whose writing has added thoughtful perspectives on emerging trends and artists.
– Oscar Montagut, whose enthusiastic coverage has spotlighted both new voices and established figures in Latin jazz.
– Brooks Geiken, for his engaging and informed writing on the evolving jazz landscape.
– Atael Weissman and Robert Saxe, whose powerful photography has visually captured the energy and spirit of the music and its performers.
– Fernando Rodríguez de Mondesert (Jazz en Dominicana), who has been contributing some of his great, in-depth interviews, translated into English.
– Michael Ambrosino, writer, producer and host of several programs, whose podcasts are now being shared on our platform.
– Lawrence Peryer, writer, business and creative professional, who, since last year (2025), has been contributing his work to enrich our platform.
– Other collaborators I acknowledge are: Luis Moreno, Gregory “Goyo” Fernando Pappas, Richard Cadena, Pablo Larraguibel, Elmer González, Janine Santana, Marcela Joya, Patricia Bell-Newson, Heidrun Haug, María Cabeza, Luis Tamargo, Joey Altruda, Estrella Acosta and Lilien Trujillo Vitón.

These contributors, along with many others, have helped build a community where Latin jazz is not only preserved and celebrated but is also continually reimagined for future generations.

The 26-year journey of Latin Jazz Network is a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose. While honouring its past, LJN looks toward the future with renewed commitment—to remain a vital voice for Latin jazz and to continue building bridges between cultures through rhythm, story, and sound.

To our readers, artists, and community members: thank you for sharing in this journey. And to all those who have contributed to LJN’s mission—your work resonates in every note.

¡Gracias y adelante!