THIS IS YOUR FREESTYLE BLAST #23
In this issue of The Blast, we sip on one of Freestyle's favorite Holiday drinks, while sharing what it means to be thankful.
Can you believe it, the Holidays are back! Halloween just passed us, Thanksgiving is approaching, followed by Christmas and before we know it we’ll be yelling Happy New Year once again.
As I get older it seems as though the Holidays shift in their meaning. As a child, it was all about me, what costume would I have? How much food will I eat, and I can’t wait to see what gifts I get! New Years Eve was never a big deal as Mom was in bed by 9:00 pm.
As a teen and young adult, it was still about me, with a glimpse of guilt because I ain’t buy shit for anyone else.
And then, just as Mom had told me, the Holidays will one day be all about others, particularly, my kids, if I was to have any. I did, two, and just as she had predicted, the focus of my Holidays was mostly on how magical I can make them for Adam and Erica.
But what she didn’t warn me about was the fact that once my kids were grown, that I would once again want to make those Holidays magical, but this time for our grandchildren, and thanks to Adam, we have four.
I hope you all enjoy this month’s issue of The Freestyle Blast Newsletter, and with that said, let’s go!
Thanksgiving is a day filled with emotions, where we take time out to appreciate and cherish the positive aspects of our lives. It encourages us to pause, reflect, and express gratitude for the relationships, opportunities, and experiences that have enriched our individual journeys. When loved ones are gathered around a table, it symbolizes unity and fosters a strong sense of togetherness, reminding us to appreciate the blessings we share. Thanksgiving isn't just about counting those blessings but also about weaving a collective story of gratitude, strengthening the connections that bind us to one another and the world we live in. Within our Freestyle community, this gratitude extends to the many amazing careers we are fortunate to enjoy and the incredible fans who continue to play that important role. In this Thanksgiving issue of The Freestyle Blast Newsletter, we feature some of our beloved Freestyle artists as they share with us what they are thankful for, enhancing the spirit of appreciation and connection within this wonderful community that we are a part of.
But first I’d like to start off by saying that I am truly thankful for my family, my cherished friends, the wonderful community of Freestyle peers. To you, the fans. Your decision to subscribe to this Newsletter and the unwavering support you've extended to me and my loved ones throughout the years mean the world to me. May God bless you abundantly, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with joy and warmth.
- Latif Mercado
This thanksgiving, I’m especially thankful to God for blessing me with my amazing husband Marc and our 3 children Angelica, Marc and John. I’m also thankful for my amazing fans and the freestyle community for all of their love and support all of these years.
One of the things I'm most thankful for this Thanksgiving is my renewed faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. He got me through my battle with Tonsil Cancer and allowed me to regain my ability to taste which I had lost during treatment.
He also allowed me to keep my voice so I could sing about his glory. Though I don't often speak of it, I am truely lucky to be alive and equally lucky to have an amazing wife Patti Andrews as well as my musical partner Jade Starling who's steadfast love and support kept me focused on beating Cancer.
Lastly Im thankful to be able to still perform for our legion of fans in the freestyle, pop and R&B communities and to all the promoters and agents who help make it possible year after year.
I'm truely blessed.
- Whey Cooler
(Pretty Poison)
This Thanksgiving, I give unlimited thanks to God for all of the amazing blessings He bestows upon me every single day. I especially thank Him for my mental, physical, and financial health & well-being, my unconditionally loving & supportive family, my true & loyal friends, and the devoted fans who support the many talents God has given me which have allowed me to enjoy a multi-faceted, lengthy, and fulfilling career doing what I love.
- Michelle Valentine
(The Cover Girls)
This Thanksgiving, I'd like to thank everyone who made my music career possible and guided me in the right direction for the better. I would also like to thank every person who took the time to purchase a ticket to see one of my shows or a freestyle concert, I'm so grateful and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Hey, I'm thankful for the support of my family and my three beautiful sons, who have made me a better man. Make sure you are thankful for every day that passes by and make sure to pay it forward. Love & Peace always
- George LaMond
What am I grateful for ?! I am grateful for so many things in my life.
For starters, I am blessed with my three sons. Gino, Mikey, and Sal are by far my biggest achievements in life. I have learned so much from my boys and am grateful to be their mom.
I am thankful for my parents, and the way I grew up with strong, family values in a home that never lacked love. I am grateful for my mother. She was and will always be the epitome of strength and compassion.
I am grateful for my brother, Frankie who is my best friend and biggest supporter.
I am grateful for my husband, Vince who is my biggest cheerleader, the best dad and stepfather, and the absolute love of my life.
Thankful to my 418 music family & my manager Gino. Thank you for believing in me and always having my back!
I am so grateful for my family & friends who love me even when I’m not very lovable and who support me throughout my life whether it be in good times or bad.
I am grateful for my freestyle family! I am beyond blessed to have created such a connection with this amazing community and I thank you for sharing this beautiful journey with me.
& Last but certainly not least thank you Heavenly Father for blessing me with the gift & passion of music. Thank you for giving me strength in my mind, peace in my heart, and more blessings than I deserve.
- Denine
Thanks Giving a Reflection of the Heart by Pastor Johnny O
Nearly a year has gone by as the season approaches when we reflect on all that we are grateful for in our past. But the reality for many can seem worlds apart.
I reflect on a time when my family and I were enjoying a meal at Denny’s.
It was a cold Thanksgiving day the restaurant was packed, and people around us were talking and laughing about their own personal family affairs. But at a glance and a listen away, God allows you to hear desperation and sadness so that you can help. While I was about to be next in line to pay for our meals, an older woman, dressed moderately was counting change, and the cashier patiently waited to see if she had enough to buy herself a Thanksgiving meal. Unfortunately, she came up short and the cashier motioned her to move on. My heart was crushed, and just before the lady made her way toward the exit I went up to her and asked her “Would you like a Thanksgiving dinner?” her response nearly brought me to tears. She replied; “I just don’t have enough sir.” Here is where faith comes into action.
I immediately asked her to follow me, as we made our way toward the cashier. I mentioned to the cashier; “here is my bill, and can you please give this woman anything she wants... anything.” Her eyes lit up and a smile of gratitude covered her face.
The good book teaches; “for I was hungry, and you gave me meat: I was thirsty, and you gave me to drink: I was a stranger, and you took me in: naked, and you clothed me: I was sick, and you visited me: I was in prison, and you came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer Him, saying, Lord, when did we see you hungry, and fed you? or thirsty, and gave you to drink? When we see you a stranger, and took you in? or naked, and clothed you? Or did we see you sick, or in prison, and came unto you? And the King shall answer and say unto them, verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you did it unto me.”
My challenge for you this Thanksgiving is to do an act of kindness and extend eternal love to someone in need. Brighten up someone’s Thanksgiving Day, with an act of gratitude. Make this Thanksgiving special for a family member, coworker, or friend. Then be thankful for what God has done through you and for your family this Thanksgiving. We can all make a difference if we only set those differences aside and extend love and compassion. I bid you all a wonderful “Thanksgiving,” and May the love of the Lord be upon your Thanksgiving festivities.
- Pastor Johnny O
This Thanksgiving..
I give thanks to my Heavenly Father for this precious gift of life. I am thankful for my loving and supportive husband, Mel, my wonderful children and my grandson who turned 2 this year. What a joy he has been to our family.
Having suffered the loss of my Father, Mother & Stepfather made this year challenging in more ways I could have ever imaged. Although the compounded grief was intense, I take solace in the fact that I had them for as long as I did.
This time of year, I always take time to reflect on all of the abundant blessings and quiet victories I’ve experienced and it inspires me to seek ways in which I can be of service to others! From our house to yours, Happy Thanksgiving to all & God bless!
- Mari aka Spanish Fly
(Sweet Sensation)
First and foremost, I thank God. He has given me the career of a lifetime, the career that I always dreamed of, the gift of performing to bring joy to people. I am also thankful for my amazing family, especially my mom who has always encouraged me to do whatever it was that was in my heart! She has been the epitome of what it means to have faith, and what it means to love people unconditionally, especially those who are underdogs. Finally, I am so thankful for the Freestyle Freaks. You have given me so much joy, purpose, and fulfillment! We were brought together by this amazing music, Freestyle, that makes us all feel so happy. And whether you know it or not, you have gotten me through many personal hard times, and for that I will forever be grateful. The smiles on your faces, the messages you send, and hearing you sing our songs, make this life incredible! Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! God bless us all!
- Judy Torres
This Thanksgiving I'd like to give thanks for all the incredible Blessings in my life!! I'm thankful for my freestyle friends, family and legions of fans all over the world. I'm grateful for this Amazing lifestyle and all the awesome opportunities that have been presented to us and my band Pretty Poison I’m thankful for my songwriting partner Whey Cooler and all the Success we have achieved in our 36 year career. I'm also grateful to God for getting Whey through his fight with head and neck cancer 6 years ago. He is cancer free, healthy and thriving Praise God. I’m so very proud of all our accomplishments and give thanks to God every day .I'm thankful to all the fans internationally for making. Our current single "Place in the Sun "#1 for 5 wks in a row on the Musicworx Download Chart and the many Iheartradio Radio stations and Mixshows across the country supporting this record. . We are so blessed to be able to continue to do what we love and share our passion with the world. God is Good
- Jade Starling
(Pretty Poison)
Time is flowing swiftly, carrying away the priorities that once held sway over my heart. With each passing year, I've gained invaluable wisdom and insights, shaping the values I hold dear today. I find myself filled with gratitude for the place I currently occupy in life, and I wouldn't alter a single moment. Along this journey, I've made my fair share of mistakes and accomplishments; for it is through both that I've arrived at this point. Some relationships cannot be mended, and certain experiences must be left behind as we strive to grow and evolve. There are instances where we may never revisit the past, yet we must appreciate the lessons they imparted upon us. Undoubtedly, I am grateful for my wife, my two sons, and my beloved five-year-old daughter, who blossoms with each passing day. I extend my gratitude to my family, my inner circle, and the enduring success of my business. However, it is important to acknowledge that my faith in God and the unwavering love of my mother have played an indispensable role in my journey. Should our paths cross, So whether our paths intertwine as friends, fall in step as fans, or share the bond of family, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the lessons you have imparted upon me. Thank you for the wisdom you have shared, for the love and kindness you have extended, regardless of the duration of our connection. May you be blessed abundantly with all the wonders and joys that life has to offer.
- The artist formerly known as Kayel,
currently known as Kay Seven/TKA
To my Freestyle Friends on this Thanksgiving day,
What I would like to say is that I am so very thankful for my health. I am in remission 17 years from Lymphoma cancer and I am especially thankful for the patients who participated in clinical trials that resulted in access to leading edge therapy.
I am thankful for my beautiful grandson, my loving family and friends who have supported me in so many ways.
I am especially thankful that for over 36 years and strong that we " The Cover Girls" are performing all of our greatest hits to all of our fans! We love you!
Have a great day!
- Margo
(The Cover Girls)
I'm thankful that my body is aging well. I'm connected to the Truth and that I have a loving husband, who is my best friend and many many fans, worldwide that support my career. You are the Heart and Soul of everything I love!!!
Gracias Mis Corazones.
Thank you, thank you forever (para siempre)
and La’, we love you!
- Shannon
(Queen of Dance, EDM & Freestyle)
This year I would have to say that I am most thankful for my new lease on life. I am finally surrounded by the most uplifting, encouraging, and loving team of people who I am so lucky to be able to call my friends and now family. After such a difficult year, not quite sure where the situation would take me or how it would end, I feel so blessed, stronger, and more loved than I ever have because of them. Being able to let go and move forward not having to do it alone has been such a gift. I look forward to the year ahead, and all the wonderful things that it may bring. I love you guys and thank you
- Rockell
As I reflect on this year, I’m especially thankful for JESUS, FAMILY and NEW LIFE. (I became a grandma this summer.) I’m also grateful for the opportunity that I’ve had to perform, reconnect and share the stage with my FREESTYLE FRIENDS. Thank you to all my FANS, PROMOTERS, INDUSTRY FAMILY and FRIENDS for your continued love and support. This journey continues because of you all. I’m truly humbled and blessed beyond measure… ROMANS 8:28
- Jocelyn Enriquez
I am most grateful to know that love, kindness, and compassion still exist in this world, even if it doesn't seem like it.
Thank you, God, for the continued blessings of family, friends, and the best fans in the world! The Freestyle Fans!
- Miss Betty Dee
(Sweet Sensation)
I am, first off, Thankful for this incredible life that God has allowed me to live, Latif Mercado, the husband that he has chosen for me to live it with, and the family and friends that made it oh so very special. To all of the wonderful fans, those who I have had the privilege to meet, and those who I hope to meet one day. I am thankful for all of my Cover Girl sisters, Margo, Michelle, Caroline, and Sunshine for jumping on this ride with me once again. (Let’s keep it going!)
And to all those less fortunate, as well as our troops who are away from home, I pray always for your Peace and Happiness.
- Angel OCG
(The Cover Girls)
IT’S COQUITO TIME!
When is the traditional time that your family starts making Coquito? Do you usually have to out by Thanksgiving, or do you wait until Christmas?
But for the few that might now know what is Coquito, well then, let’s get into it.
According to Wikipedia, Coquito means "Little Coconut" and it’s a Spanish traditional Christmas drink that originated in Puerto Rico. The coconut-based alcoholic beverage is said to be similar to eggnog and is sometimes referred to as Puerto Rican Eggnog when explaining it to our non-Latino friends.
The first-ever Coquito drink is believed to have been made in the 1900s, with the first published Coquito recipes recorded in the Puerto Rican cookbooks Cocine a Gusto and The Puerto Rican Cookbook, between 1950 and 1970.
Technically, it's illegal to sell Coquito without a liquor license in New York, but you're likely to have a harder time finding the stuff legally.
The main ingredients of Coquito, regardless of the recipe, are coconut milk, coconut cream, Puerto Rican rum, and sweetened condensed milk. (using eggs, I recently discovered is debatable) Other flavors I heard can be added, though I myself have never tried them.
Similar to Pitorro, known as Puerto Rican moonshine, Coquito can vary when it comes to its alcohol percentage since it’s mostly made at home with a recipe passed along through a network of friends and family.
It’s unknown as to who exactly created Coquito, or how the recipe came about, but what’s certain is that the best way to get to know about Coquito is simply to try it.
There are drinks similar to Coquito in other countries in the Caribbean and in Spain. In Cuba for example, the drink is served with coconut ice cream. In the United States, Coquito is well-known by Puerto Ricans and those of Puerto Rican heritage, as well as by travelers who have visited Puerto Rico and got to try the legendary drink.
One important Coquito-related event in the US is the Coquito Masters, which is held every year and put together by the International Coquito Tasting Federation.
Originally a contest held in the New York City area, the Coquito Masters is now expanding to other states.
While homemade Coquito is definitely the preferred version of this popular drink, there are various companies that sell it and many stores where you can buy it.
But of course, for that ultimate Coquito experience, nothing beats an authentic batch made by the hands of a Puerto Rican (and the older the hands the better, in my opinion)
Below is just one of many recipes that exist, so that you can give it a try this year, and as the years move on, you too can adjust the recipe to your liking. Ready to try it out?
“Ingredients
1 can coconut milk, not coconut water or coconut cream (13.5 ounces)
1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
1 cup water
1 cup whole milk
2 sticks cinnamon
4 egg yolks
* ground cinnamon, to taste (optional)
1 cup white rum
Instructions
In a 2-quart saucepan, heat the coconut milk, condensed milk, water, whole milk, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil very briefly, then remove from the heat.
In a separate mixing bowl whip the egg yolks with a whisk or electric hand mixer. While whipping, drizzle about a cup of the hot mixture into the eggs.
Return the milk/egg mixture to the saucepan and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Allow to cool completely before adding the rum. Store in the refrigerator, best when made a day in advance.
Now pour in short glasses, sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon or drop in a stick, now sip and enjoy… Salud!
NanCee Ortiz, Harv Roman, Maybelline Sierra, Manuello Marzzallino, Sally Hernandez, Hector Jimenez, Alysha Fernandez, Steve Migliore, Lilia Chairez Rios, Ovidio Santiago, David Hernandez, Joel Rojas, Storm Graziano, Steven Cogle, Robert Bryant, Ricardo Nieves, Chris Nelson, JW Belmonte, Junior Collazo, Luis Santana, JL Borrero, Juan Rodriguez, Michael A. Berardi - Barak, Manny B Presents,
To all our Subscribers, Readers, Subjects, and of course our Sponsors, for being a part of this month’s issue of the Freestyle Blast Newsletter, Thank you all so much!
and until next time…
This was your Freestyle Blast!
Latif Mercado has been a part of the Freestyle Music scene for well over 30 years, as well as an integral player behind the genre’s continued success.
As a Booking Agent with a who's who roster of Freestyle Greats, as well as his managerial involvement with such industry icons as Lil' Suzy, Angel OCG, and The Cover Girls, rarely would you find a Freestyle event happening without Latif somewhere in the mix.
Latif loves hearing from his readers, answering questions, and sharing whatever advice he possibly can, whether it be on writing, or maybe something Freestyle-related, so be sure to reach out, even if it’s just to say hi.
So please Follow Him here @LatifMercado
I've never drunk a coquito before, but I wouldn't mind trying one. Also, thanks for posting what many freestyle musicians are thankful for. I learned more about them just by coming to this post!
Man! Latif, all blasts are great, but this one is special. It feels more personal with the thankful thoughts of the freestyle artist, love it! Great job! One thing I'm thankful for is the freestyle genre, the awesome artist that keeps us hooked with their talent, music and the person they each are. And brothers like you Latif that work hard to keep freestyle alive, Thank You. Salud! with some Coquito! Have an awesome Thanksgiving!