As the cameras scanned the audience for the nervous faces of the five composers nominated for the Oscar for Best Score, I held my breath.“It’s tough competition,” I thought. Can he really? Before I could ponder any longer, the answer came as a resounding yes! Reflexively I jumped up in excitement, letting out a small yelp. After regaining my composure and making sure I was still alone, I realized we had our cover story.

Gustavo Santaolalla not only made our monthly pondering over who would grace our cover a nobrainer, but he also made all Latinos proud that night. As he held the coveted golden statuette firmly in his stocky hand and grinned widely, he announced in his native Spanish, “Dedico este premio a mi mamá, a mi país, Argentina. Para todos los latinos.”

Santaolalla’s career and accomplishment are unparalleled . He is an exemplary and inspiring figure in our community, and it is with great pride that we bring you his story in this, our Music Issue. And to delve even deeper into the influence of the undisputed godfather of rock en español, we bring you a story on the revival of tango in the hands of two young Argentine bands, one of which is produced by Santaolalla himself.

As part of our tuneful special we spoke to producers Luny Tunes and Toy Hernandez, and musicians Daddy Yankee, and Ivy Queen about the phenomenon of reggaetón that has swept the nation with its catchy tunes and contagious rhythm.

In addition, we bring you a Mother’s Day gift guide, and regular columnists Ruben Navarrette, Dr. Eduardo Padrón and Julie Stav.

Enjoy!

Daniel Eilemberg, Editor