New York Pride –

For a Dominican-American Gay Kid from New Jersey the chance to perform at NYC Pride in 2018 was a dream come true. It will be an experience I will never forget. And it flew by in what seemed like seconds.

Hearing my band “Descarrilao” being introduced by “Rupaul’s Drag Race” star Ross Mathews felt surreal and the minute we hit that stage the energy and love we received from the audience was overwhelming! There I was singing my original songs, some in Spanish, and showing off my Salsa moves to a crowd full of diversity and support. I don’t think many people were expecting a Bi-lingual Salsa Band to hit the stage but once we did it was non stop dancing.

From the stage I saw a group of Salseros promptly finding dance partners and getting in step with the music. It made me smile. I saw a couple pushing their way to the front and once there the girl starting filming on her phone and the guy gave me a big thumbs up. I nodded my head to say thanks. I could feel there approval. I was doing what I loved while being who I am and all I received was encouragement and praise. I felt blessed. 

Jose