Introducing you to the talents that surround New York city. Ever go dancing and wonder who is that dj?, or go to a comedy club and wonder who that talented comedian was, NYC hidden talents is bringing you all the information on the people that keep you laughing, dancing and on your feet. Below you can find all the locations your favorite people will be performing.
Headphones on, Laptop ready as he scrolls through his song playlist to see which one he will play next. DJ Ralphie Mercado takes a look at the crowd to see their reaction as he mixes in a Marc Anthony salsa song. "Djing comes easy to me", he says. I love music and I love to entertain. I'm not a performer. Since I can't sing or play an instrument Djing is the closest thing I can do to performing.
Q: Your father was the late great Ralphie Mercado, an iconic legend, and a staple in the Latin music industry. How does feel to be the son of someone who broke barriers and helped artist like Marc Anthony, Tito Puente, Celia Cruz become the icons everyone knows them to be today?
A: I feel honored and blessed to say that's my father I feel very proud that he took the latin culture that far throughout the world, while some may think it's a daunting task to follow in his footsteps I enjoy the task and the challenge it helps me learn what he went through and helps me get to where I want to be within my success.
Q: You grew up in an industry that people spend years trying to get in to, what have you taken away from growing up in the industry that you have used to help you become successful today?
A: The one thing that I've taken away is not what you know it's who you know. Networking is very important. Meeting new people, making new connection it seems after being in the industry after 20 years the players never change its the business. Helping other people in the industry will help you get far.
Q: What's your ultimate goal, what do you foresee as your final accomplishment?
A: I want to be the new millennial version of Ralph Mercado my father I want to eventually accomplish having my hand in every aspect of the music and entertainment industry. My final accomplishment I can't say because as the music industry evolves so do my dreams and aspirations. Talented, Humble and Ambitious are just a few words I can use to describe this upcoming Millennial icon. Taking concerts, night clubs and the radio waves by storm. Ralph Mercardo is not only on his way to honor his father's legacy but already creating a name for himself and his talented works.
You can find Dj Ralph Mercado every Friday at Casa Restaurant and Lounge After Work Party in the East Tremont Section of the Bronx. Click on the link below to hear why this talented Dj is Taking over New York's Club scene.