Kick-off Summer with KCRW Summer Nights presenting iLe, the captivating Puerto Rican singer-songwriter, at Grand Performances on Saturday, June 1, 2024. Experience the mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern Latin American sounds that have earned iLe critical acclaim and a Grammy Award. Don't miss this opportunity to witness her powerful vocals and emotionally resonant compositions, along with opening acts Mestizo Beat and DJ José Gálvan, in the heart of Los Angeles.
About iLe
Ileana Cabra, known artistically as "iLe," is a captivating Puerto Rican singer, composer, and vocalist who has made an indelible mark on the Latin music scene. With a soulful voice and an eclectic musical style, iLe first gained recognition as the sole female singer of the groundbreaking group Calle 13, where she performed alongside her brothers for a decade.
In 2016, iLe embarked on a solo career that has showcased her exceptional ability to interpret and reinvent classic Latin American sounds. Her debut album, "iLevitable," is a meticulously crafted collection of songs that earned her critical acclaim, a Grammy Award for Best Latin Rock, Urban or Alternative Album, and a Latin Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.
iLe's follow-up album, "Almadura," further demonstrates her artistic growth and versatility. The album explores Puerto Rican and Caribbean musical traditions while addressing contemporary issues, creating a powerful and emotionally resonant listening experience.
Throughout her career, iLe has collaborated with a diverse array of renowned artists and has captivated audiences across Puerto Rico, the United States, and Europe with her mesmerizing live performances. Her music transcends language barriers, as her emotionally charged vocals and intricate compositions resonate with listeners worldwide.
iLe's unique ability to blend traditional Latin American genres with modern elements has established her as one of the most compelling and innovative voices in the Latin music industry. Her passion, talent, and dedication to her craft continue to inspire and engage fans, solidifying her position as a true artist to watch.
WATCH & LISTEN
Mestizo Beat
Mestizo Beat is an Afro-Latin Soul Ensemble based out of Los Angeles, CA. They are an instrumental group that blend the sounds of early 70’s Funk & Soul, Latin Jazz, Afrobeat, Psychedelic Rock and Hip-Hop. The group is highly inspired by artists such as War, James Brown and The J.B.’s, Mongo Santamaria, Fela Kuti, Parliament Funkadelic, and The Meters. The band’s music carries a certain sense of nostalgia, using their creativity to fuse the old with the new, constantly paying homage to the greats who came before.
José Galván
José Galván started DJ-ing in 2008, when his job as an On-Air personality at the now defunct Indie 103.1fm demanded it. He had produced The Crystal Method’s weekly radio show, Community Service for 2 years, and with their guidance and some of their gear on loan, he took to the 1’s & 2’s one Cinco de Mayo.
Mixing is only the newest chapter in his lifelong addiction to music. Growing up, José spent 7 years in a Community orchestra, ascending to First Chair of the Cello section. He’s been in college & commercial radio programming since he was an undergrad at USC, fulfilling the roles of Latin Music Director & Programming Director at the student run college station as well as Executive Producer of Syndication for The Kevin & Bean Show on KROQ.
José has also traveled the world as a Tour Manager for Carla Morrison and DJ Z-Trip. The latter giving him the hands-on experience to see some of the world’s biggest DJs in action up close and personal. His base in music theory, his stint with Z-Trip, and the fact that he constantly listens to so much new music, has helped him rapidly grow as a DJ and music selector.
He’s held down lengthy residencies at downtown LA bars and in 2017, he was asked to DJ Weekend 2 of the Coachella Music and Arts Festival in the Sonora Tent.
José currently hosts and programs Monday nights from 10p-midnight on KCRW and is also the Talent Buyer for The Paramount music venue in Boyle Heights.
José Galván lives for music, and has been known to take requests.
This performance is made possible in part by grants from the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Department of Arts and Culture
