Survivors Abound at the “I Survived the 80s’ and 90’s” Freestyle Concert In Miami, Fl

2023-09-01

Miami, FL – Miami’s vibrant music scene is transported back in time on August 26, 2023 as the “I Survived the 80’s and 90’s Freestyle Concert” takes center stage at the picturesque Jungle Island. The evening is a nostalgic journey that unites generations of music lovers, reliving the golden eras of freestyle and dance music. The lineup boasts a roster of iconic artists, and some new up and comers, creating an electric atmosphere that has the crowd dancing and singing along all night long.

The venue, Miami’s iconic Jungle Island, serves as a perfect spot for a show strategically located along the MacArthur Causeway across from the Port of Miami and in between the bustling skyline of downtown Miami and South Beach. Charlie Rodrigues Live Entertainment continues to be a force in the Freestyle world bringing great shows to the South Florida market, and this show is no exception. The crowd is primed by South Florida’s own DJ Jorge Santana, who not only sets the tone for the night, but keeps everyone on their feet in between artists all night long.

The night commences with Richie Rosario, setting the tone with his infectious energy and flamboyant persona. Richie is well received by the Freestyle fans in attendance in a set that includes his song “I’m Better Without You” and his newest release, “Invisible“.

As the sun began is setting over the Miami skyline, Aiki takes the stage, captivating the audience with her platinum blonde bob and dynamic stage presence. A fairly new presence on the Freestyle scene, Aiki commands the stage and finishes her set with a duet with her manager and former Linear member, Joey Restivo.

The Voice in Fashion brings their unique style and swagger, taking the crowd on a sonic journey through the Miami Freestyle era’s signature sound. Brothers David and Sal Hanono play a brief and powerful set that included their mega-hits “Only In The Night“, “Give Me Your Love” and their awesome cover of the Pet Shop Boys “Domino Dancing“. A little known fact, “Domino Dancing” was actually produced by Lewis Martinee, Miami-based producer behind 1980s Freestyle groups such as Exposé.

The crowd’s excitement escalates as Ray Guell follows, delivering a soulful performance that includes a fantastic cover of “Let Me Go” by Heaven 17 and his smash dance hit, “Just Another Lover“.

The night night progresses and the talent caliber just gets higher and hight. Lisette Melendez, a true diva of Freestyle music, graces the stage with her timeless classics. Her powerful vocals and engaging performance are a testament to her enduring legacy on the Freestyle music scene. She fascinates the crowd with “Together Forever“, “A Day in My Life” and one of her latest releases, “Hot Shot“.

Now performing solo, Betty Dee of Sweet Sensation keeps the momentum alive with her hits that ignite the dance floor. Betty Dee includes “I’m Hooked on You”, “Sincerely Yours” and “Take It While It’s Hot” in her set. She goes on to include a ballad, “If Wishes Came True” in which she engages a lucky fan in a slow dance while she sings. Her set is completed with the power dance tune, “Never Let You Go“. The crowd sings in unison, every lyric a cherished memory from days gone by.

A staple in the Freestyle music scene and a diva in her own right, Cynthia commands the stage. The fellow Florida resident is a crowd favorite. Her set is interactive as she not only allows, but insists that the fans sing all of the verses for “Dreamboy, Dreamgirl” originally sung by fellow Freestyle artist, Johnny O on the original recording. Fans oblige. She goes on to perform many of her hits including “Thief of Hearts” and “Change on Me“.

One could argue that Freestyle might not be as big as it is today without the next performer. Tony Moran, one half of the Freestyle powerhouse, Latin Rascals, really takes the crowd back with hits like “It Must Be You” and a song written and performed with fellow Freestyler, Noel called “The Question“. The crowd really comes alive and Tony performs “Dance with Me“. While not often performing in South Florida, Tony is treated to quite the warm reception by Miami Freestyle fans. Tony would return later in the evening to perform with TKA on their collaboration, “Is It Love“.

Judy Torres, a true Freestyle icon, receives a reception as she stepps onto the stage. Her animated performance is engaging. Judy loves to tell stories and speaks to fans as if they are all friends. Judy belts out her classics, opening with “No Reason To Cry” and accompanying it with some creating hip hop dancing. Judy truly has fun on stage. She includes a dance cover version of Journey’s power ballad “Faithfully“, with a great arrangement and powerful melody. Judy completes her time on stage with “Come Into My Arms“.

The atmosphere reaches its crescendo as TKA closes the show with an explosive set. Their performance was a nonstop rollercoaster, featuring anthems that have been etched into the collective memory of the audience and are part of what has given Freestyle the longevity it currently enjoys. TKA performs hit after hit, including a couple of K7’s solo songs “Move it Like This” and “Come Baby Come“. It is certainly a treat to see the live performance of “Is It Love” in which Tony Moran joins TKA on stage. The night ends with the anthemic “Louder Than Love” with what can only be described as a sky full of stars with fans holding up their mobile phones at the request of K7.

The “I Survived the 80’s and 90’s Freestyle Concert” wasn’t just a musical event; it was a celebration of the cultural impact of Freestyle music. It bridges the gap between generations, reminding everyone of the magic that music can create. The artists prove that their music has not aged a day, and reinforces the Freestyle music fan mantra of Freestyle Music Forever.

As the final notes echo through the Miami night, the audience disperses with a sense of euphoria, grateful for the opportunity to relive the music that shaped their lives. The concert was a testament to the enduring power of Freestyle music and its ability to unite people across time, space and generations.