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Welcome to Episode 205 of the Salsa Kings LIVE podcast
We have been featured as #1 in “Top 10 Salsa Podcasts” on FeedSpot.
Intro
Hey familia, it’s me, Pablo “Rico Rico” Peña Garcia, with my brother Andres Fernandez! We just dropped episode 205 of the Salsa Kings Live podcast. In this one, we talk about something we found really interesting—the difference between a social and a party. This idea came up after we went to the Miami Salsa Events launch at the Mayfair Sipsip Lounge in Coconut Grove. The vibe there was amazing, and it made us think about what really makes a social different from a party.
Key Points
• My First Time at the Pool Party
This was my first time going to the Miami Latin Rooftop Pool Party. I told Andres it was one of the best parties I’ve been to in a long time. Not many people from our studio came, but that didn’t stop us. We turned it up! The party didn’t start when the music started—it started when WE got there. The energy came from us.
• What Is a Social?
A social is simple. It’s about people coming together to dance and enjoy music. It doesn’t need much—maybe just a space, a speaker, and a playlist. The songs usually play one after another with no mixing or editing. It’s more like someone pressed play on Spotify. The focus is on dancing, connection, and practicing with others. Sometimes people call it a “practice party.” You don’t really need to charge money for a social because it’s more about community than entertainment.
• What Is a Party?
A party is a level up. There’s more energy, more planning, and more intention. You might have a DJ who mixes songs, interacts with the crowd, and changes the vibe based on how people are feeling. The music becomes an art because the DJ creates a special mood. A party might also have a theme—like a color, costume, or special style—and that’s one reason people often pay to get in. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about an experience that takes more effort and creativity to make happen.
• The Role of Intention
Andres said something powerful: social plus intention equals party. I loved that. The difference is in the intention—the thought, energy, and care you put into creating the vibe. A party means someone went above and beyond. Maybe they got a beautiful rooftop, brought live performers, or added decorations and food. It’s about making sure everyone has a good time.
• The Pool Party Example
At Mike’s pool party, there were drummers, conga players, and dancers who hyped everyone up. Mike, who’s been doing this for over ten years, always interacts with his crowd and truly loves what he does. That passion shows, and it makes the energy contagious. The party became more than just music—it was a feeling that everyone shared together.
• Social vs. Party – It’s a Feeling
You can’t always explain it with words. Sometimes you just feel whether you’re at a social or a party. A social is calm and focused on dancing with friends. A party is electric—it makes you want to move, smile, and stay all night. Both are great, but they serve different purposes. One is for practice, the other for pure fun and energy.
Closing Thoughts
So next time you go out in Miami—whether it’s a rooftop, a club, or a studio—ask yourself: Am I at a social or a party? Remember, both are special. One helps you grow as a dancer, and the other helps you celebrate life. What matters most is the feeling and the intention behind it.
Big love to everyone who joined us for this episode and to all of you who keep listening. Don’t forget—Miami Salsa Cruise is coming February 22 to 28, 2026! Seven days, six nights, live salsa music every single night. If you’re a Salsa Kings member, your event ticket is free, so start training and come dance with us!This was Andres Fernandez and me, Pablo “Rico Rico” Peña Garcia. Episode 205, Social or Party.
See you next time, family!