The Latin Explosion: A New America

Explores the impact of Latino music on United States culture. The documentary traces the roots of Hispanic contributions to American music starting from Pérez Prado, Xavier Cugat, the Afro-Cubans and Tito Puente. It places particular importance on the contributions of Desi Arnaz, Rita Moreno and José Feliciano. Over fifteen Hispanic musicians, apart from Feliciano and Moreno, including Marc Anthony, Pitbull, Gloria Estefan, Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin, Shakira and Romeo Santos are interviewed about their careers, impact and influences including the Fania All-Stars. Comedians and actors Cheech Marin, Eva Longoria also discuss their experiences and the impact of Hispanic Americans beyond music.—Guillermo Mena