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"The rhythm, the energy, and the soul of the music captivated me in a way that words can’t fully describe—it felt like it penetrated my soul." - Marcus Hernandez

 

An interview with Indie Music Hall of Fame inductee and

Indie Music Channel Award winning artist 

Marcus Hernandez & Orchestra Fuego

Hometown: Land O Lakes, FL

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IMC Mag: "So take us back, Marcus.  How did you get into music?"


MH: "I got into music at a very young age, being born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, where music was always a big part of my life. I was fascinated with the sounds of Motown growing up, as they were a major influence on me. However, my path took a significant turn during college when I experienced a Salsa band for the first time. The rhythm, the energy, and the soul of the music captivated me in a way that words can’t fully describe—it felt like it penetrated my soul. From that moment, I knew that Salsa music would be an essential part of my journey as a musician."

IMC Mag: "When did you start to really pursue your music career seriously?"

 

MH: "I started to seriously pursue my music career while attending college. In 1975, I formed my first band, Fuego, and we quickly became an instant hit. Just two years later, in 1977, I signed my first recording contract with Fania Records, the biggest and most iconic label of that era in Salsa music. That milestone marked the true beginning of my professional journey in the music industry."

IMC Mag:  "What are some of your most proudest accomplishments in your career?"


MH: "Some of my proudest moments in my career include performing at Madison Square Garden in front of 16,000 fans—a truly unforgettable experience. Another highlight was being nominated for a Latin Grammy for my second album, Salsa Brava. More recently, I was honored to be inducted into the Indie Music Channel Hall of Fame. On top of that, winning Best Album of the Year twice—first for Candela in 2022 and then for Nostalgia in 2024—at the Indie Music Channel Awards and the LIT Music Awards, both held in Hollywood, California, has been a tremendous honor. These achievements wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible fans, to whom we are forever grateful."

IMC Mag: "What do you and your band have coming up?"


MH: "We are gearing up for an exciting and busy 2025 tour schedule, with performances planned in New York, Texas, Alabama, and Canada. In addition to the tour, we’re also working on a Best Hits album that will showcase fan favorites from our repertoire and include some brand-new songs. It’s an exciting time for us, and we can’t wait to share it all with our fans!  We’re incredibly grateful for all the support we’ve received along the way, especially from Christopher Ewing and everyone at the IMC Awards. Christopher has been a tremendous supporter of Orchestra Fuego, and we’re so thankful for his encouragement and recognition."

 

Where to purchase Orchestra Fuego's music: https://orchestrafuego.com

"Orchestra Fuego has a TON of great songs, but 'Bein Diferente' is my favorite! 

I don't understand one word they are saying, but I love it anyway!!"

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