Mexican
band Maná urges Latinos to vote in U.S. election
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[September 15, 2016]
(Reuters) - Members of Maná,
the Spanish-language pop band, are embarking on what
they hope will be their most influential series of
performances - the U.S. "Latino Power Tour" - seeking to
encourage Latinos to use their power at the polls in the
Nov. 8 presidential election.
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"We are so proud, on one hand 'Latino Power Tour,' it's a
celebration, but we're also suggesting for Latinos to use their
power with their vote. They can change history in this country,"
said vocalist Fher Olvera.
The tour opened in San Diego on Sept. 9 and is scheduled to end
in Los Angeles on Nov. 13. The band, sometimes referred to as
"the U2 of Spanish rock," will perform in 18 major arenas across
the United States.
The band from Guadalajara, Mexico, has always been vocal about
denouncing violence and corruption in its home country. Now, in
the wake of some unfavorable comments about Mexicans by
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump - who has also
threatened to expel millions of Mexicans - Maná feels its
influence can make a difference in the United States as well.
"Latinos can move the scale of history in the United States,
they can rewrite history and I believe they deserve a lot more
than what has been given to them, and they have the power,"
Olvera said in an interview.
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For the "Latino Power Tour," Maná will perform a career-spanning set
including greatest hits and songs from its ninth studio album, "Cama
Incendiada" (Bed on Fire). It has also partnered with organizations
including Voto Latino and local advocates to provide both
inspiration and information Latinos might need to make their voices
heard in the upcoming election.
"More than anything, it's a huge celebration of the Latino
community," said drummer Alex Gonzalez. "You know, the Latino
community has given so much and has worked so hard here in the
United States, developed the country, especially economically. On
the other hand also, this tour is to emphasize Latinos to go out and
vote."
Maná has earned four Grammy Awards, eight Latin Grammy Awards and
sold more than 40 million albums.
(Reporting by Reuters TV; Writing by Melissa Fares; Editing by
Matthew Lewis)
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