Photo by Adrienne J. Romero / SOC Images.
On July 8, On The Hill Live (OTHL) performers Ivan Requinto and Jerry Zyno echoed through Jersey City’s Greenville neighborhood with their merengue and bachata sounds. Residents gathered for another evening of the free outdoor concert series, which transforms local parks into vibrant community gathering spaces.
Neighbors, families and visitors experienced the city’s cultural diversity through performances ranging from jazz, soul, R&B, salsa, bachata and merengue. The series showcases local performers while giving residents free access to live music and cultural programming throughout the summer.
“I think it is absolutely crucial for communities, families, especially children, to have access to free community events,” Requinto said. “If it wasn’t for an event like this, we wouldn’t be able to expose our culture and our tradition to this beautiful community of Jersey City. So I’m absolutely grateful to be here.”
The July 8 performance at the Glenn D. Cunningham Library, at 275 MLK Drive, featured Requinto, an independent Dominican singer, guitarist and songwriter whose music draws heavily from his heritage.
“My Dominican roots, my love for singing poetry, and honestly, my love for music,” Requinto said when asked what inspired him to pursue music.
For Requinto, events like On the Hill Live mean more than simply performing.
“I think this event brings union,” he said. “I think it brings exposure to culture and togetherness, love.”
As he performed Dominican rhythms, Requinto hoped audience members would leave with more than just a memorable concert.
“I hope people take away the joy, the storytelling of our beautiful Dominican music, our bachata, our merengue, and just some wonderful, joyous memories,” he said.
Although he does not currently have any public solo performances scheduled, Requinto said audiences can still catch him performing regularly with fellow musicians at Los Cuernos, a Mexican restaurant at 499 Washington Boulevard near Newport Mall in Jersey City.
Those interested in following his music can find him on Instagram at @empedernidoofficial, as well as on YouTube, Apple Music and other digital streaming platforms under Iván Requinto.
The next On The Hill Live performance is scheduled for Aug. 12 and will feature Maurice Luke and the 201 Experience.
