Felix Contreras
Felix Contreras is co-creator and host of Alt.Latino, NPR's pioneering radio show and podcast celebrating Latin music and culture since 2010.
In addition to his post behind the mic, Contreras programs music from the Latin diaspora for the acclaimed Tiny Desk concerts and hosts a weekly Instagram Live interview with a wide-ranging roster of guests.
A knowledgeable international ambassador for Latino heritage and arts, "Tio Felix '' travels extensively in search of new talent and new music and captures important legacy performers in jazz and Latin genres. Various national and international publications have quoted his expertise on the contemporary influences of Latin culture, music, and media.
His a recovering TV journalist whose first post at NPR in 2001 was as a Producer/Reporter for the NPR News Arts Desk. He is also NPR's resident Deadhead and performs around the DC area with his Latin music Beatles cover band, Los Day Trippers.
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It's been 10 years since Chilean-French hip-hop artist Ana Tijoux dropped an album. She's back with Vida, and talks about her return to recording.
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The Rwandan group's determination to spread its musical message is an inspiration. -
Sunny Jain's music promotes the idea of not just crossing boundaries but obliterating them all together. -
NPR's Alt.Latino followed break-out trio Yahritza y Su Esencia on tour to document how their identity, and connection to regional Mexican music was shaped in their farmworker community.
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The Indian jazz fusion band stops by the Tiny Desk for a historical performance.
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For 75 years, Tico Records has produced Latin soul music of the highest order. A new compilation — Hit the Bongo! — celebrates Tico's anniversary.
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The stripped down sound of some of Becky G's biggest hits offered a rare view of her artistry. -
Alex Cuba weaves evocative imagery into musical arrangements that conjure his native country.
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NPR's Ayesha Rascoe speaks with Felix Contreras and Anamaria Sayre, hosts of the Alt.Latino podcast, about the upcoming "El Tiny" Tiny Desk Concerts that celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
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The 24th annual Latin Grammy nominations have been announced. The genre is experiencing a wave of unprecedented popularity, but recognition from the Latin Recording Academy seems to be lagging behind.
