WILFRIDO VARGAS EL BAILE 12" LP VINYL Album

Merengue Domenicana Sexy Album Cover

Wilfrido Vargas' 1988 release, "El Baile," is a merengue masterpiece that transcends borders. Reflecting the Dominican Republic's cultural shifts in the late '80s, the album blends traditional merengue with contemporary influences. Vargas' musical brilliance, showcased in diverse tracks like "A Mover la Colita" and "Luna de Xelaju," contributed to merengue's global recognition, solidifying its status and fostering cross-cultural appreciation. "El Baile" remains a timeless gem in Latin music history.

 

High Resolution Photo #10 WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile Sexy https://vinyl-records.nl

"El Baile" Album Description:

In the vibrant world of Dominican merengue, Wilfrido Vargas stands as a luminary whose impact extends far beyond the rhythms of the dance floor. His 1988 release, "El Baile," encapsulates the essence of the genre during a crucial period in its evolution. This 12" LP vinyl album not only showcases Vargas' musical prowess but also serves as a testament to the cultural and societal backdrop of the time.

Context of the Time Period:

The late 1980s marked a transformative era in the Dominican Republic and the broader Latin American music scene. Politically, the region was experiencing shifts, and socially, there was a growing awareness of cultural identity. In this dynamic environment, Wilfrido Vargas, with his innovative approach to merengue, played a pivotal role in shaping the musical landscape.

"El Baile" emerged at a time when merengue was gaining international recognition. The genre was not just confined to the Dominican Republic; it had transcended borders, captivating audiences worldwide. Vargas, a trailblazer in this movement, infused his music with a unique blend of traditional merengue elements and contemporary influences, creating a sound that resonated with a global audience.

Production Brilliance:

The album's production reflects the musical sophistication of the late 1980s. With a fusion of traditional merengue instruments and modern production techniques, "El Baile" attains a sonic richness that distinguishes it from its predecessors. The arrangements are meticulous, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining a cohesive and infectious rhythm that defines merengue.

Vargas' commitment to musical excellence is evident in each track, from the pulsating beats of "A Mover la Colita" to the melodic beauty of "Luna de Xelaju." The diversity of styles within the album showcases not only Vargas' versatility but also the genre's ability to adapt and evolve.

Contribution to Merengue:

"El Baile" stands as a testament to Wilfrido Vargas' role as a merengue innovator. By pushing the boundaries of the genre, he not only solidified his own position as a merengue icon but also paved the way for future generations of artists. The album's success contributed to the global recognition of merengue as a formidable force in the world of Latin music.

Moreover, "El Baile" played a crucial role in breaking down cultural barriers. It brought the infectious rhythms of merengue to a diverse audience, fostering an appreciation for Dominican music and culture on a global scale. In doing so, Wilfrido Vargas became a cultural ambassador, bridging gaps through the universal language of music.

Album Description & Collectors information:

Wilfrido Vargas the KING of Dominican Merengue

Music Genre:

80s Merengue (Dominican Republic)

Record Label Information:

Fonit Cetrit International ILS 9085

Media Format:

12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram 

Year & Country:

1988 Made in Italy
Track Listing of: "WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile"

The Songs/tracks on "WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile" are

    Side One:
  1. A Mover la Colita
  2. Pete Pack
  3. Culu-Cucu
  4. Pa'Maelo
  5. La Borinquena
  6. Pa'Maelo
  7. Mijaragual
  8. Severa
  9. El Chivo
  10. Perfume de Rosas
  11. Preciosa
  12. La Loteria
    Side Two:
  1. Me Quede Sin Nadie
  2. Oiga
  3. Quincenera
  4. El Mono
  5. Luna de Xelaju
Album cover photos of : WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile
Front Cover Photo of "WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile" Album
High Resolution Photo #10 WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile Sexy https://vinyl-records.nl
Back Cover  Photo of "WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile" Album
High Resolution Photo #11 WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile Sexy https://vinyl-records.nl  
Close-up Photo of "WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile" Record Label 

High Resolution Photo #12 WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile Sexy https://vinyl-records.nl

High Resolution Photo #13 WILFRIDO VARGAS El Baile Sexy https://vinyl-records.nl  

 Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Wilfrido Vargas: Pioneering Musician and Advocate for Social Justice.

WILFRIDO VARGAS Information:

Wilfrido Vargas is a Dominican musician and bandleader who is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the development of merengue music. He was born on April 24, 1949, in Altamira, a small town in the northern part of the Dominican Republic. Vargas began his musical career at a young age and quickly rose to prominence as a singer and composer, earning a reputation as a pioneer in the merengue genre.

Merengue is a type of music and dance that originated in the Dominican Republic in the early 19th century. It is characterized by a fast tempo, a lively rhythm, and a distinctive 2/4 beat. Merengue has been influenced by a variety of musical styles, including African, European, and indigenous Caribbean music, and it has become a popular genre throughout Latin America and beyond.

Wilfrido Vargas was born into a musical family, and he began playing the accordion at a young age. He quickly developed a talent for music, and by the age of 13, he had already formed his own band. In the early 1970s, Vargas moved to New York City, where he began playing in the city's vibrant Latin music scene. It was during this time that Vargas began to experiment with different musical styles and develop his own unique sound.

In 1974, Vargas released his first album, "Wilfrido Vargas y sus Beduinos," which featured a mix of traditional merengue music and more experimental elements. The album was a commercial success and helped to establish Vargas as a leading figure in the merengue genre. Over the next few years, Vargas released a series of albums that further cemented his reputation as a pioneering musician.

One of Vargas's most important contributions to the merengue genre was his incorporation of elements from other musical styles, such as jazz, rock, and funk. This helped to broaden the appeal of merengue and attract new audiences to the genre. Vargas's music was also characterized by his innovative use of brass and percussion instruments, which gave his music a distinctive sound.

In addition to his work as a musician, Vargas is also a renowned composer and arranger. He has written many of his own songs, as well as arrangements for other artists. Vargas's music often addresses social and political issues, and he has been an outspoken advocate for social justice throughout his career.

Despite his success as a musician, Vargas has faced his share of challenges over the years. In 1988, he was involved in a serious car accident that left him with a broken neck and other injuries. He was unable to perform for several years as he recovered from his injuries, but he eventually returned to the stage and continued to make music.

Today, Wilfrido Vargas is considered one of the most important figures in the history of merengue music. His contributions to the genre have helped to shape its development and evolution over the years. Vargas has won numerous awards and accolades for his music, including several Latin Grammy Awards. In addition to his work as a musician and composer, Vargas is also a respected academic and educator. He has taught music at several universities and has written extensively on the history and development of merengue music. Vargas's contributions to the field of music education have helped to inspire a new generation of musicians and scholars. 

WILFRIDO VARGAS - El Baile ( 12" LP )

Thumbnail Of  WILFRIDO VARGAS - El Baile album front cover

Fonit Cetrit International ILS 9085 , 1988 , Italy

Wilfrido Vargas' 1988 release, "El Baile," is a merengue masterpiece that transcends borders. Reflecting the Dominican Republic's cultural shifts in the late '80s, the album blends traditional merengue with contemporary influences. Vargas' musical brilliance, showcased in diverse tracks like "A Mover la Colita" and "Luna de Xelaju," contributed to merengue's global recognition, solidifying its status and fostering cross-cultural appreciation. "El Baile" remains a timeless gem in Latin music history.

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WILFRIDO VARGAS - La Medicina ( 12" LP )

Thumbnail Of  WILFRIDO VARGAS - La Medicina album front cover

Ariola H 207 575 , 1986 , Spain

Wilfrido Vargas's 1986 Merengue gem, 'La Medicina,' epitomizes the genre's evolution within the dynamic musical landscape of the time. As the producer and frontman, Vargas masterfully fuses traditional elements with innovation, creating an enduring masterpiece. The album's captivating cover design by Susie Gadea and photography by Roberto Alvarez adds visual depth. 'La Medicina' stands as a timeless contribution, shaping Merengue's trajectory and inspiring future artists.

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