Current News And Reviews
March 1, 2009
Rico Monaco continues to write material for the next RMSS release and has also started a new project performing classic standards, arias, and boleros on another recording.  This project will take him to New York City and back over the next few months.  Stay tuned for more info coming soon.
February 5, 2009
RMSS rock "Clematis By Night" in downtown West Palm Beach Florida!  The highlights included the debut performance of the new original song "Romantica" and a great new RMSS version of "Hotel California" plus the famous Italian artist Zucchero song, "Baila Morena."
December 6, 2008
Switch Allstar Jam at the Roll Bar!  Benefit for "Toys For Tots" with Special Guests Pat Travers, Les Dudek, Chris Kirkpatrick, and Rico Monaco.
November 15, 2008
RMSS has thousands of delegates from the National League Of Cities grooving to their Latin Rock sound at the Marriott World Center.
November 14, 2008
RMSS provide their unique brand of Latin Rock for National League Of Cities conference delegates from around the country at the Marriott World Center!
November 8, 2008
Music In The Courtyard Festival in Deltona, FL with Rico Monaco & Sol Sons!  A great evening of the passionate Latin Rock music delivered by RMSS.
October 24, 2008
RMSS rock Friday Night Live at Uptown Altamonte.  Great outdoor festival show at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs, FL.  Kiyro makes his debut as keyboardist & lead vocalist.
September 26, 2008
Gibson Guitars signs Rico Monaco to an Artist Agreement!  "I am very happy to be working with Gibson.  Thanks to Michael, Tiffany, and Matt at Gibson Orlando for their great support." -Rico Monaco  The deal was proposed by Michael Waggoner, Entertainment Relations Managing Director Global Strategic Alliances Gibson Guitar Corporation (former Columbia Records Exec.)
September 18, 2008
Rico Monaco & The New Centurions rockin "Liam Fitzpatricks" in Lake Mary, Florida
September 13, 2008
Gibson Guitars Clinic with Rico Monaco at Bloomingdales at Mall At Millenia!   What a great event with many budding guitarists out to watch, listen and learn.  Great performances by Rico with keyboardist Kiyro and students as well.
September 4, 2008
Guitar Town sponsored by Gibson Guitars preview Bloomingdales at Mall At Millenia featuring 10 foot high artist renditions of Gibson Les Paul guitars!
August 21, 2008
Rico Monaco & The New Centurions at Friday Nite Live in Uptown Altamonte POSTPONED due to Tropical Storm Fay.  Rescheduled to October 24, 2008.
August 15, 2008
Rico Monaco & The New Centurions back at the new Irish Pub "Liam Fitzpatricks" in Lake Mary, Florida
August 1, 2008
The legendary jazz fusion band "Return To Forever" performs at House Of Blues.  What a great show with Corea, DiMeola, Clarke, and White!
July 17 & 24, 2008
Rico Monaco & The New Centurions kickin' out the jams at the new Irish Pub "Liam Fitzpatricks" in Lake Mary, Florida
May 8, 2008
RMSS puts on a great show at "Alive After Five in Sanford."  It was a wonderful street festival.
April 18, 2008
St. James Talent Show -Orlando, Florida.  Rico produces the 8 th grade band "Kings Way" for the 4th year in a row. Joe, Charlie, Sergio, and Dylan put on a great show and rocked the audience!
April 12, 2008
Rico Monaco & The New Centurions rock Dexters in Winter Park, Florida!
March 29, 2008
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Bourbon St. Restaurant & Music Hall in The Villages, FL.  Jessie Caraballo on drums (Marc Anthony & J-Lo)
March 7, 2008
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Bourbon St. Restaurant & Music Hall in The Villages, FL.  Jessie Caraballo on drums (Marc Anthony & J-Lo) and they rocked!  Luis Rojas and Joel Lopez kickin out the jams on bass and keys too!
March 5, 2008
Rico Monaco sits in at BB Kings Blues Club with the BB King Allstar Band.  ROCK IT!
February 23, 2008
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Bourbon St. Restaurant & Music Hall in The Villages, FL.  Al Cheek who is Rico's best friend and a great musician is the owner of this great New Orlean's style Restaurant & Music Hall.
Thursday February 14, 2008
Rico Monaco performs at Orlando's Amway Arena on the outdoor stage for WHTQ 96.5 with the band "Switch" opening for the VAN HALEN   show!!  That's right Rico rocked some VH tunes at about 6:45 pm to get the fans ready for Eddie and the boys!  Wow, if only Sammy and Michael could have been there too... maybe next time.
February 9, 2008
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons live at Red Cross Valentines Day event at Gaylord Palms Resort.
February 7, 2008
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Bourbon St. Restaurant & Music Hall in The Villages, FL.  Al Cheek who is Rico's best friend and a great musician is the owner of this great New Orlean's style Restaurant & Music Hall.
January 25, 2008
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Bourbon St. Restaurant & Music Hall in The Villages, FL.  Al Cheek who is Rico's best friend and a great musician is the owner of this great New Orlean's style Restaurant & Music Hall.
January 24, 2008
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Dexters in Winter Park, Fl.
January 19, 2008
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Cricketeers Arms Pub on International Dr. in Orlando, FL
January 12, 2008
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Bourbon St. Restaurant & Music Hall in The Villages, FL.  Al Cheek who is Rico's best friend and a great musician is the owner of this great New Orlean's style Restaurant & Music Hall.
January 12, 2008
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons live at "Taste Of Orlando" at the beautiful Veranda Park in Orlando.
December 12, 2007
Rico with Bre Morgan performing at The Children's Center at Florida Hospital.  God Bless those childrena with strength.
November 30, 2007
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Timmy Macks in Altamonte Springs, FL
November 16, 2007
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Dexters in Winter Park, Fl.
November 10, 2007
Rico Monaco sits in on some Van Halen tunes with the band Switch at Cricketeers Arms Pub on International Dr. in Orlando, Fl
Oct. 26, 2007
Rico with Bre Morgan at Funspot on International Dr. Orlando, Fl
Oct. 19, 2008
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons live at Hogtober Fest at the Historic Harley Factory in Orlando, FL.
Oct. 12, 2007
The New Centurions featuring Rico Monaco at Trizzys in Altamonte Springs, FL.
Oct. 4, 5, 6, and 7, 2007
Rico in NYC for Van Halen show at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut and for the opera "Pagliacci" at Lincoln Center.  Top of the Empire State building was a blessed event on Sunday October 7, 2007**
Sept. 12, 2007
-Check out this review below!  http://www.antimusic.com/reviews/07/RicoMonaco.shtml
August 31, 2007
Bre Morgan makes her debut with Rico on guitar and as her Musical Director at Oldtown in Kissimmee, FL.  What a great start for Bre.  She has what it takes to make it.
August 15, 2007
Rico and the rockin new band "The New Centurions" goes out and rocks Trizzy's in Altamonte Springs, FL.
July 25, 2007
Bre Morgan and her band rehearse with Rico on guitar for the first time.   The future is very bright for Bre!
July 20, 2007
"The Cube Featuring Rico Monaco" rock Old Town in Kissimmee, FL.
June 28, 2007
Rico's longtime friend Al Cheek opens the restaurant/Jazz & Blues club "Bourbon St" in The Villages, FL. 
June 13, 2007
RMSS at the Tampa Bay Convention Center for 2000 people!  Big show and big success for RMSS.
June 8, 2007
Rico as special guest with The Cube in Daytona Beach, FL.
May 30, 2007
Rico begins producing The Thrusters (James Humann's band).
May 4, 2007
RMSS at "First Friday" Mall At Millenia Orlando, Florida!  The best show of the series according to the staff at WLOQ 103.1 AGAIN!
April 28, 2007
Rico appears as special guest with The Cube at Dexters in Lake Mary, FL.
April 13, 2007
Rico produces the young band Kings Way at the St. James Talent Show in downtown Orlando to awesome response.
March 23, 2007
"The Cube Featuring Rico Monaco" rock Old Town in Kissimmee, FL.
March 8, 2007
Rico begins producing tracks for Dr. Steve & The Medicine Men.
March 3, 2007
RMSS at  the Latin Jazz & Art Festival in Casselberry, FL.  The rain doesn't stop a great show by the band.
March 2, 2007
Rico appears as special guest with The Cube at Dexters in Lake Mary, FL.
February 23, 2007
Rico lays down tracks for Al Cheek in his home studio in Lady Lake, Florida.
February 7, 2007
Rico Monaco appears as special guest with Tito Puente Jr. at the Lyric Theatre in downtown Stuart, Florida!  They rock the house together as always!
January 20, 2007
Frank's Place in S. Orlando with Cabo Wabo Tequila lubricating the club goers.  Good Luck to Frank's Place.  We were happy to give you 4 Saturdays in a row to get this new venue rolling!
January 19, 2007
"The Cube Featuring Rico Monaco" rock Old Town in Kissimmee, FL.
January 13, 2007
RMSS building a bigger audience each week at Frank's Place, a new live music venue in S. Orlando!  Cabo Wabo Tequila helps the party get started and rolling all night long.
January 6, 2007
RMSS lay down the Latin Rock grooves at Frank's Place in S. Orlando.   Cabo Wabo Tequila girls and great music, what a night!
January 4, 2007
"The Cube Featuring Rico Monaco" rock Old Town in Kissimmee, FL for a benefit concert for the children of parents that were murdered.
December 31, 2006- January 1, 2007
Private Event New Year's Eve party that was a great way to rock in 2007!
Decmber 30, 2006
RMSS live at new club Frank's Place in S. Orlando (Hunters Creek).   The Cabo Wabo Tequila was flowing and the band was on fire!
December 29, 2006
"The Cube Featuring Rico Monaco" rock Old Town in Kissimmee, FL.
December 20, 2006
May God Bless the soul of our loving mother Antoinette Monaco.
..."I was so blessed to be with you and hold you when you left this earth.  I am tremendously sad because I can’t hold you in my arms anymore.  But you will always be in my heart, you are my heart, and I will hold you close there forever.
You were the Best One, I Love You   Your Son, Rico
December 15 & 16, 2006
The Cube featuring Rico Monaco rock Dexters in Lake Mary, FL.
November 24, 2006
The Cube Featuring Rico Monaco rock Old Town in Kissimmee, FL.
November 10, 2006
The Cube featuring Rico Monaco rock Dexters in Lake Mary, FL.
November 3, 2006
RMSS at "First Friday" Mall At Millenia Orlando, Florida!  The best show of the series according to the staff at WLOQ 103.1!
October 31, 2006

Connections Magazine Review of the new RMSS CD "Luna Salerno."
"Rico Monaco & Sol Sons has never failed to impress us. Over the years, the band led by virtuoso Santana-esque guitarist Rico Monaco has been a long-time local (and national) favorite of ours. So it came as no surprise that Monaco has dropped yet another first-rate album, both musically and sonically. While normally Latin-oriented, we liked the unique twist Monaco took with the more rockin' "Say Cabo." Also noteworthy is Monaco's long time association with Tito Puente Jr., this time showing up on "One Step Closer To You" and "Ya Ya Ma Ma." Whether live or on record, Rico Monaco is always welcome to our ears."

October 26, 2006
Red Ribbon Celebration- Music in the Park Lake Eola Amphitheatre, downtown Orlando -RMSS rocks with amazing pianist, Antonio Perez, who was our sub for this show.  Tony is from Cuba, now Miami, and has played with "Irakere" and many other tremendous Latin jazz bands.  He was in town to record the new Giovanni Hidalgo CD with our bass player Eddie "Gua Gua" Rivera.   What a treat for the band and everyone at this show.  It was a benefit concert for the "Center For Drug Free Living" with WLOQ 103.1
October 21, 2006
Live Video Clips of RMSS on YouTube
"Ya Ya Ma Ma" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZu5h5U5vc4 and
"One Step Away" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BZ7MhSlMGI , plus many other live concert clips and on our My Space page at http://www.myspace.com/ricomonacoandsolsons (copy and paste)
October 17,2006
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons is now being played by online radio broadcasts in Parma, Italy (http://www.vinilemania.net/index.html) and Cali, Columbia (http://www.myspace.com/solarlatinclub), and soon in Melbourne, Australia (http://fiestajazz.com)! 
October 16, 2006
American Latino TV Interview with RMSS!!
"Rico Monaco & Sol Sons" was interview by the nationally syndicated television show "American Latino TV" (www.aimtvgroup.com) yesterday!  This show is a half hour show that goes into 65 Million Homes everyweek and it targets English speaking Latinos!  It is based in New York City and the producers found the band online through their research for the best Latin type bands in Florida.  The interview will be mixed with concert footage of our video from the Hard Rock Live Orlando from July 7, 2006.  It should be on the air in December. 
Ocotober 13, 2006
Television Debut of "Livewire presents Rico Monaco & Sol Sons at the Hard Rock Live Orlando" on Vision TV 11:00 pm (Orange County Government TV).  It's a one hour concert from July 7, 2006 that smokes!  You can also view it on the internet at http://www.orangecountyfl.net/cms/ORANGEMEDIA/otv/default.htm
October 6, 2006
Rico as Special Guest Guitarist with The Cube at Old Town Themepark in Kissimmee, Florida.  Killer rock tunes played by the band from the 80's, 70's, and 60's with Rico blowin' the crowd solo after solo.  Highlight:  the guitar extravaganza intro with bits of Van Halen's Eruption and Rico signature licks before the song "Panama."
September 29, 30, 2006
Rico as Special Guest Guitarist with The Cube at Dexters in Lake Mary, Florida.  Great rock and Cabo Wabo Tequila event. 
September 20, 2006
Rico begins producing tracks in his home studio for the alternative rock band "Enoch Arden." With Ammon Waters, the leader of the band, a vocalist that has a great original sound somewhat reminiscent of David Bowie.   These tracks will help the band break out and help them as they head to Ireland, England, and Italy for two weeks of tour dates!
September 28, 2006
Rico attends the Santana concert at the Sound Advice Amphitheatre!  Rico says hello to Chester Thompson (great Santana keyboardist) and Chester takes two of RMSS' latest "Luna Salerno" CDs to Carlos.  Great show with Los Lonely Boys and Carlos' son's band, Salvador Santana.
September 8, 2006
Rico goes to see one of his very favorite guitarists, Jeff Beck at House Of Blues Orlando!   With Vinnie Coliauta on drums, what an amazing shoe.  Jeff Beck is one of the best ever.
August 17, 2006
The passing of Enrico F. Monaco Sr. A great father, man,  and supporter of my musical career.  He will be missed tremendously but we will celebrate his blessed life forever.  Thanks be to God for giving him to us.  God Bless his soul and may he rest in peace.  We love you Dad,  Your Son, Rico
August 4, 2006
Old Town Themepark in Kissimmee, Florida. Rico appears with the great rocking cover band The Cube as Special Guest Guitarist and tears it up as usual.
July 19, 2006
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons voted "Best Latin Act" in Central Florida by the readers of the Orlando Weekly for the 3rd time!
July 8, 14, 15, 28, 29, 2006
Rico appears as the Special Guest guitarist with The Cube at Dexters in Lake Mary, Florida.  Rock-n-Roll from the 60's , 70's, and 80's.  Many shots of Cabo Wabo Tequila and CWT t-shirts are given away.
July 7, 2006
Hard Rock Live Orlando!   This great night was filmed by Vision TV (Orange County Gov. TV station) with 6 cameras and 24 track digital audio.  An awesome display of the talent, songwriting, showmanship, and energy of RMSS that will be airing on cable TV on Vision TV Friday Oct. 13, 2006!
June 28 thru July 5
Rico heads to New York City and meets with music industry associates.  The business is in a period of major change.  It's a good thing RMSS has remained independent.  Opportunities are there for the taking now.  New York City is the greatest city in the world.  Jogging by the World Trade Center and up the Hudson River is a highlight.  A 4th of July Party on the beautiful shoreline of Milford, CT with close friends is an amazing way to end the trip.
June 16 & June 17, 2006
Rico goes backstage to say hello to two of his favorite musicians, Sammy Hagar & Michael Anthony.  The shows were "Sammy Hagar & The Wabos with The Other Half featuring Michael Anthony" on Friday 6/16/06 in West Palm Beach at the Sound Advice Amphitheatre and on 6/17/06 in Tampa at the Ford Amphitheatre.  These shows featured Sammy and his great band (Dave, Vic, and Mona with a percussionist-we wonder where Sammy got that idea?) playing his greatest solo material.  Then they took a short break and Michael Anthony came roaring onto the stage with his classic bass solo similar to his Van Halen solo.  They then ripped into "Runnin' With The Devil" and many other classic VH tunes!  They put on one of the best shows of the year!  Rico was able to personally hand the entire band, Sammy, and Michael the brand new RMSS CD "Luna Salerno."  He also surprised them with the new RMSS T-shirts which they loved.  All musicians and road crew love "schwagg" (free stuff).  Thanks to Production Manager Paul Binder and Road Manager- Rick for being cool.  Of course, Sammy and Michael were very happy to see Rico.  It's great to see how much they respect what RMSS is doing musically and for spreading the good word about Cabo Wabo Tequila.  Rico proudly proclaims how great Sammy and Michael are as people/musicians at all RMSS shows.  He even wrote a song about it that is on the new CD called "Say Cabo."  See ya next time Sammy and Mikey!  Great seeing you and your families!
June 2, 2006
Rico jams with The Cube at Old Town in Kissimmee with thousands of "hot cars" in attendance.  The Van Halen tunes are a warm up for the Sammy Hagar/Michael Anthony shows in WPB and Tampa!
May 27, 2006
CD Release Party & Concert for"Luna Salerno." "WLOQ's Jazz Jams Uptown Kick-Off" 6 PM to 10 PM at the Grand Opening of the new Uptown Altamonte  at Crane's Roost Amphitheatre Altamonte Springs, FL.  Over 2,500 in attendance!  What a great show!  Thanks to all our fans/friends, family, WLOQ 103.1, and Uptown Altamonte!
May 25, 2006
RMSS performed live on television WOFL Fox 35 Orlando Morning Show with Jim Van Fleet many times from 5 am to 9 am!  Great promotion for the new CD Luna Salerno and the CD Release Party on Saturday May 27, 2006!  Thanks to Fox 35,  Jim, WOLQ, and Laura Richeson.
May 18, 2006
RMSS at The Exchange Lounge downtown on Church St.
May 13, 2006
Rico with The Cube at Dexters in Lake Mary, FL.
May 11, 2006
RMSS in downtown Orlando blowin' away all the bands that appeared at the Florida Music Festival outside the doors of the Exchange Lounge.
May 4, 2006
Rico with The Cube at Bike Night at Old Town in Kissimmee, FL with over 3,000 motorcycles!
April 21 & 29, 2006
Rico as special guest guitarist with The Cube at Dexters in Lake Mary, FL.
April 13 & 14, 2006
Rico rocks as special guest guitarist with The Cube at Old Town in Kissimmee, FL. Playin' the rockinest tunes of the 70's & 80's and whatever else they decide to try.
April 1, 2006
RMSS record "Ya Ya Ma Ma" and "Vesuvio" live in the studio starting at 9:30 am at Live Oak Studios.
March 30, 2006
RMSS showin' downtown Orlando how it is done at the Exchange Lounge.
March 23, 2006
RMSS rocks the Exchange Lounge with the biggest Thursday they have ever had!
March 9, 2006
RMSS rock the Exchange Lounge in downtown Orlando at Church St.  Thanks to Jose and the entire staff at this great new venue! Tony Miceli, Zoraida, Dimas Sanchez, Eddie "Gua Gua" Rivera, Felix Guerra, and Gino Picart Jr. played their hearts out.
March 4, 2006
Rico rocks at East Of Paris for a private event with Dana Kamide.
Jan 12, 2006
Rico jams at Zabella in Winter Park, FL with Dana Kamide rocking the house!
October 1, 2005
Seminole Jazz Festival in Lake Mary, FL (benefit for the Grove Counseling Center).  The attendance was double the expected total!  RMSS continues to show that they can electrify any crowd, anywhere, any age.  Tony, Zoraida, Eddie, Dimas, Jose, and Gino joined Rico for a spectacular performance.
Sept 24, 2005
Tampa Bay Convention Center in downtown Tampa, FL.   A beautiful night under the stars with the "National Convention Of College Admissions Administrators."  Thousands of people partying to the Latin Rock sounds of RMSS.  Great stage, sound, lighting and crew from New Orleans!
Recording Update8/19/05
Rico Monaco and Sol Sons are heading into a brand new multi-million dollar studio in Orlando.  They will be recording a new CD to be released this fall.  There will be a group of new Latin Rock songs on the CD such as "Say Cabo," "Luna Salerno," "Fuse," etc.... Stay Tuned.
July 30, 2005
The first annual Latin Jazz Festival by WLOQ at Lake Island Park with Nestor Torres and Gabriela Anders.   The rain slowly came to an end as RMSS rocked the 5,000 in attendance.   Gabriela and Nestor were spectacular.  Thanks to Jeff Uryga and Sonny Abelardo for all your support.
June 9 thru June 21, 2005
Rico Monaco travels to Italy, Amsterdam, and London for business/pleasure!  The Italian people are the most warm and life loving in the world.  Rome is amazing.  The Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Florence to the Amalfi Coast were visited.  In his grandparents hometown of San Bartolomeo In Galdo (east of Naples in the mountains), Rico has an impromptu jam at a rehearsal space with native Italian musicians.  Wiith 30 people cramming into see the session there was an incredible response to the Stones, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Hendrix, and Santana songs.  This was very emotional for Rico with some of his cousins attending and being able to perform in the hometown of his Opera Lead Tenor vocalist grandfather, Guiseppe Monaco and grandmother Concetta Agostinelli Monaco!   Amsterdam was CRAZY as you know.  London was historic and fun.  Only two weeks later the tragic bombings of London's subway system that Rico used would take place.   God Bless the good people of London.
May 20, 2005
RMSS kick out the jams at the swank Grand Bohemian Hotel in downtown Orlando.
May 7, 2005
Rico and executive producer Patrick "ShagDaddy" Hicks are invited backstage at the "Sammy Hagar & The Wabos featuring Michael Anthony" at Foxwoods Theatre in Connecticut to hang with the band.  Sammy and Michael are excited to hear the new song "Say Cabo" by RMSS!  Thanks Barry, Sammy, Marco, Michael!
May 6, 2005
First Friday with WLOQ 103.1 at the Mall At Millenia.  Rico and the boys rock 2,000 at this beautiful state of the art mall in Orlando, FL.
April 9, 2005
Rico Monaco's New House Party featuring a showcase set by "RMSS" is a huge success!  Cabo Wabo Tequila was flowing all night!  Thanks to all our friends who came to eat, drink, jam, and celebrate LIFE! Thanks to ShagDaddy, Big Al Cheek, Sabrina, John Parrett, Tony Miceli, Nick & Heather, Brother Joe, and the 60 some people who attended.  This will be an annual party every April!!!!
March 18 to March 22
Rico Monaco  continues the writing of the new CD in the beautiful hills of Fairfield County Connecticut at ShagDaddy's Studio!  12 songs on the way!!!
March 17, 2005
Rico performs with Dana Kamide at Sin-e' in the East Village of New York City.  Great show with many industry types showing up.  Thanks to Keith Eland, Patrick Hicks, Andrew Gould, The Baumgarten Family, Leda, etc...  great fun had by all!
December, January, & February, March 2005!
The writing continues for the next CD.
December 10, 2004
Rico & his friend, fellow producer/musician, Tony Miceli perform as a duo for Defense Attorney Todd Copeland's Holiday Party and new office opening in Kissimee, FL.  A great time had by all!  Thanks Todd!   Best Of Luck in with your 2nd office.
November 26, 2004
RMSS rocks WLOQ's "Jazz Fest" 11/26/04.   Thanks to Jeff and all the crew at 103.1! Big audience showed up after the Orlando Christmas Parade.
September, October, November 2004
RMSS and ALL of Florida recover from Hurricanes Charlie, Frances, Jeanne, and Ivan!  Devistating many communities throughout Florida.  We pray for everyone affected by these powerful storms.  A bold reminder to be thankful for what we have,  We thank God everyday for another chance to be have a positive LIFE!  New roofs are going up everywhere and many people lost there homes completely.  No power in Florida in August  and September is very difficult to deal with...  but we will survive and thrive!
Sept. 5, 9, 11, 2004
Van Halen in Biloxi, MS, Tampa, FL, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL.  Rico has a great time with Sammy and Michael at these shows.  Van Halen sound awesome again.   Good to have them back.  Thanks to Sammy, Michael, Marco, Barry, Sabrina, and the entire crew!
August 28, 2004
RMSS at Hard Rock Live Orlando!  Great show featuring the stage set used for MTV's shows filmed at Hard Rock Live Orlando this summer.  Orange County Government TV filmed the show and it will be shown on public cable TV in Central Florida!  RMSS attack the airwaves again!
August 3, 2004
Rico helps arrange a song and records with Colin Smith (lead vocalist of Mr. North) at Dirk Kennedy's Queens, NY studio.  The session last all night and produces a great song to be submitted to Santana.  It may be considered for Carlos' next CD.
July 31, 2004
ShagDaddy's Birthday Bash on Milford Beach, CT.  Great party for a great friend.  Rico jams with the "Love Junkies'" and his friend Al Cheek.  They perform the original song by Rico & Al called "ShagDaddy For Eternity" to great response.  Patrick Hicks is a great man and supporter of RM!  Thanks Pat , Alicia, The Canadians, and all the good friends who attended.
Saturday June 19, 2004
Summer Jazz 2004 at the Naples Beach Resort Hotel in beautiful Naples, Florida.  The biggest crowd of this festivals' history of over 3,000 people came out and went CRAZY for RMSS.  The band sold more CDs than at any other gig in the past and they couldn't sign enough autographs to keep the people happy.  This type of response is the norm for RMSS but this was a special night that no one in the band will forget.  God blessed the band with the ability and the audience was directly involved in creating an amazing event.  The beach the next day was beautiful.  Thanks to all our new friends in Naples and the staff at the hotel/festival.  
Friday June 4, 2004
"First Friday" sponsored by WLOQ 103.1,  Mall at Millennia off Conroy Rd. and I-4 Orlando, FL. 5 pm to 8 pm.  Rained out and rescheduled for July 2, 2004.  Rico was interviewed on WLOQ that morning to great response.  Elena, Ciao Bella Signorina (making its radio debut), and Oye Como Va Live In Paris were spun during the interview.
May 28, 2004
CDBaby has hooked RMSS up with the following Digital Distribution websites.  You can go to any of the following sites and download RMSS music!  DApple iTunes http://www.apple.com/itunes/store/, Rhapsody http://www.listen.com/, Sony Connect http://www.sonyconnect.com/, Napster http://www.napster.com/, PureTracks http://www.puretracks.com/, MusicNet http://www.musicnet.com/, AudioLunchbox http://www.audiolunchbox.com/, MusicMatch http://www.musicmatch.com/download/music_intro.htm, Emusic http://www.emusic.com/, BuyMusic http://www.buymusic.com/, NetMusic http://www.netmusic.com, DiscLogic http://www.disclogic.com/, Emepe3.com http://www.emepe3.com/, Etherstream http://www.etherstream.com/, Linspire http://www.linspire.com/, Music4Cents http://www.music4cents.com/, QTRnote http://www.qtrnote.com/, TriaSite http://www.gimmemusic.net/, CatchMusic http://catchmusic.net/catchweb/, Viztas Digital Marketplace http://viztas.com/
May 27, 2004

NEWS:  Rico Monaco and Sol Sons have been selected for the Ars Nova Productions Compilation: The Hottest Independent Latin Artists, Volume 9: Latin/World.  Ars Nova Productions (www.arsnovaproductions.com) is based out of Chicago and will be distributing these CDs worldwide!  
Saturday May 15, 2004
Children Of Love Foundation" Honduras Orphanage Charity Benefit.  RMSS "unplugged" for this wonderful charity to help needy children.  Great night.
May 7, 2004
Hard Rock Live Orlando.  RMSS rocks the big venue as only they can.  Great audience response and HR staff always is happy to hear RMSS.  "Ciao Bella Signorina" has become a fan favorite song.
May 5, 2004
Cinco De Mayo Party at Universal Studios Citywalk Latin Quarter.  Great event that included a mix of all races, colors and creeds.  It is great to see how Rico and The Sol Sons appeal to a cross section of people especially live on stage!
April 17, 2004
Calico Jacks Casselberry, FL.   Rico Monaco Trio rocks and rolls again.  Classic, New and original rock.
April 7, 2004 
Live After 5 with WLOQ 103.1" at the Black Fin in Winter Park Village.  Packed the outside of the venue!  RMSS surrounded by fans and left the crowd chanting for more!
April 2, 2004
Calico Jacks UCF.  First Rico Monaco Trio show!!  Power Trio rockin' hard all night!   Fun side project for the band and their fans.
March 2004
The band is taking some time off to write some new material and work on other band related items.
February 7, 2004
Sunset Jazz Festival at Casselberry- RMSS with WLOQ 103.1 draws over 2,000 people to this great show!  Sold out of CD's!  4 camera video shoot for Seminole County Government TV.  The audiences are truly growing and that is an excellent sign. 
January 18, 19, 20, 2004
IBM Convention at the Dolphin and Swan Hotels on Disney Property.  Each night featured audiences from all over the world which proved well suited for RMSS.  The last night was attended by 6,000 IBM related people from Europe (most from Italy and Germany).  They went wild for Rico and the band.  Audience participation with chanting, dancing, and getting onstage with the band.  Though it was cold outside the audience kept the band playing through the scheduled break straight through to the end of the night.  Many, many, in the audience highly recommended the band make it's way over to Italy, Germany, Spain, France, Holland, Switzerland, etc....  We will get over to Europe to make our mark there.  It's our destiny!
January 3, 2004
Hard Rock Live Orlando.  RMSS perform at the big venue to a rabid crowd and have an 8 dance group choreographed by lead vocalist, Page, come out for "One Step Away."  Cool Birthday/Aftershow Party for Rico at the Hard Rock Hotel Velvet Lounge.
New Year's Eve 3003- 2004 December 31, 2003.
Rico is the "Special Guest Guitarist" at the Dana Kamide show at the Orchid Ballroom at Church St. Station.
December 19, 2003
Black Fin in Winter Park, FL.  Rocked the house as usual.
December 11, 2003
"Jingle Mingle" charity Christmas Party at the Citrus Bowl Stadium Club.  Party, party, party!
December 10, 2003
Payas, Payas, and Payas Christmas Event.  Outdoors under the bigtop with the Latino Lawyers and friends.
November 2, 2003
RMSS headline "Fall Fiesta" at Lake Eola Bandshell for WMMO 98.9.
October 31 & November 1, 2003
Cheers in Longwood, FL.  Rico sits in with local band.*#*
October 30, 2003
Grand Opening of "The Kitchen Restaurant" at the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Studios Orlando.  Rico invited to private event which featured guests Sammy Hagar, Robin Zander of Cheap Trick, Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray, Mike Reno, Alex Ligertwood of Santana, Joe Lynn Turner, etc...
October 25, 2003
Cheers in Longwood.  Rico sits in with local band.
October 22, 2003
CD Release Party for "Ciao Bella Signorina" at The Black Fin in Winter Park, FL.  Packed house bought up many CD's.  New RMSS banner from Cabo Wabo Tequila on full display.
October 3 thru October 13, 2003
Cabo Wabo Meltdown & Sammy Hagar Birthday Bash.  Rico jams with Michael Anthony, Sammy, Mesh, Vitamin T, and has a great time over this glorious 11 business/pleasure trip.
September 19, 2003
Studio info:  Rico is doing all he can to finish the 4 song EP before his trip to Cabo Wabo in Mexico.  There have been difficulties as usual but persitence will pay off.  Look for a CD release party in Orlando in mid- October.
September 15, 2003
House of Blues with Cafe Tacuba, Latin Grammy winning band from Mexico.  Great show with RMSS continuing to prove that they can win over many different types of audiences. 
August 24, 2003
Old Town in Kissimmee, FL with WLOQ 103.1- rained out.
August 9, 16, 17, 29, 30, 2003
Rico Monaco appeared  as Special Guest Lead Guitarist at various clubs in Orlando and Daytona Beach!
August 7, 2003
Salt Lake City, Utah at the Grand America 5 Star Hotel!  Incredible show with special guest Tito Puente Jr.  Rico and the band were given first class treatment for their stay in SLC by Lifescan.  The show was packed out and the audience was one of the most enthusiastic RMSS has performed for in a the last few years!  SLC is a beautiful city and we thank Metropolitan Ent., Hard Drive, and Jack Morton for making it happen.
July 30, 2003
RMSS are the first band to play poolside at the spectacular Hard Rock Hotel Orlando!   The rain delayed the show but their was a great surprise in store for the band.  Lou Carrier, GM of the hotel, had Barry Augus of Cabo Wabo Tequila (Sammy Hagar's main man for his tequila brand) fly in to see the band!  Rico and the band were completely unaware of this reunion!  They have been working with and communicating with Barry often but have not seen him since their triumphant Cabo Wabo Cantina shows in Mexico with Sammy Hagar and Smashmouth back in October 2002!  Rock legend, Pat Travers, came out to see the band as well.  Great day by the amazing HR Hotel pool!  Thanks Barry and Lou, you guys ROCK!
July 10, 16, 24, 25, 26, 2003
Rico Monaco doing guitar-sub work for the Melissa Crispo band.  He learned 30 songs in two days to cover the gig for them!  And if you happen to be lucky enough to see the band with him, you will see why he was voted "Musician Of The Year 2002" in Orlando.  Versatility, showmanship, professionalism and most importantly PASSION are the qualities he displays at every show, small or large.
July 19, 2003
After taking some time off to begin their new recording, RMSS was happy to see a packed house waiting for them to come out of the confines of the recording studio.  The Black Fin, the only small venue RMSS play, has been instrumental in establishing the band in the Orlando/Winter Park area.  On this Saturday night there was something in the air or water.  The audience/dancers were "wild" with passion!  If you were there, you would know what we mean.  Great night had by all, another blessing from above for the band!
May 16, 17, & 18, 2003
Coconuts On The Beach will never be the same!  RMSS leveled this regionally famous beach club.  The audience came from Orlando, the eastern coast of Florida, and the local area to party with the band all weekend.  Friday night the Cabo Wabo Girls were there with giveaways and made the night more special. And Saturday night was hot!  Outside on the deck Sunday was great!  The beach background was inspiration for the band.  We look forward to returning to Coconuts in the near future.  Thanks to Chris and Donny for making the show happen.
May 3, 2003
"Tropical Heatwave" (tropicalheatwave.org) in Ybor City Tampa, FL is a big event for WMNF 88.5.  WMNF is one of the biggest community listener supported stations in the country.  DJ Speedy Gonzalez interviewed Rico on the air before the show and has had RMSS in his Top Ten since the release of the RMSS self titled CD!  42 bands and 7 stages at this great event.  RMSS was the featured act in the Cuban Club Ballroom.  A great show with tremendous response from the audience.  CD's were selling like hotcakes.  The room was full of moving and grooving concert goers totally into the Latin Rock sounds of the band!  Thanks Randy Wynne, Speedy Gonzalez, and everyone from WMNF.  See you all in Tampa soon!
May 2, 2003
Bombardiers in Vero Beach is a new club that Rico Monaco & Sol Sons have helped get off the ground.  Thanks to all the good people of Vero for coming out to support us.  We look forward to seeing you again!
April 30, 2003
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons would like to thank the thousands who attended this past Sundays’ Jazzfest Kissimmee. WLOQ 103.1 (wloq.com) sponsored this great all day event at beautiful Lakefront Park and RMSS “sold out” of CD’s! BIG NEWS: WLOQ 103.1 in Winter Park/Orlando is going to add the RMSS original song “Elena Mi Carino” track #6 from the self titled CD! Listen to the station over the next few weeks and please, call them to keep it going. This is great news and should lead to more airplay. WLOQ has been big supporters of Rico & the band and the band is very appreciative of that! Special thanks to Jeff, Amy, Robin, Melissa, Brian, and the entire staff 103.1! Many great opportunities are coming our way and this event can be pivotal in our future success!
April 11, 2003
Bombardiers in Vero Beach, FL is a new club that has a great future ahead of it.  It was an excellent night for RMSS to be back in Vero for the first time in 2 years.  This should become a good regular stop for the band.  Thanks to Cameron!
April 8, 2003
RMSS rocking a convention as only they can at the beautiful Wyndham Palace Resort & Spa in the Downtown Disney area.  The big thirteen piece "RMSS Orchestra" is a force to behold!  Funhouse did a wonderful job also.  Thanks to Lisa and Richie for booking the band! 
April 5, 2003
The great people of Winter Park have helped RMSS become on the most well respected bands in Central Florida.  This show was sponsored by Cabo Wabo Tequila with the "Cabo Wabo Girls" getting onstage with the band during the RMSS original song "Tropico."  The band has been changing the chorus to "Cabo Wabo" ever since the unforgettable shows down at the Cantina in Mexico with Sammy Hagar and Smashmouth last October.  Thanks to Janis Gardner from Cabo Wabo Tequila for supporting RMSS.
March 28, 2003
The Hard Rock Live Orlando.  RMSS first time back at the scene of their "Cabo Wabo/Hard Rock Cafe National Battle Of The Bands Championship" opening victories.  Cabo Wabo Tequila was there promoting their great product.  Great turnout for the band and continuing evidence that this band belongs are the "world stage."  The big band version of RMSS with horns (Corey, JR, and Bill) and female backing vocalists (Nayla and Kristin).  Thrusters and Urbane Cowboys kicked ass opening the show.
March 23, 2003
Winter Park Arts Festival in Winter Park, Florida.  Rain couldn't ruin the powerful set RMSS played.  The faithful in Winter Park who support the band came out in the rain and the band left them wanting more!
March 21, 2003
House Of Blues, Orlando with "The Legendary Wailers."  Amazing show with on of the true legendary bands who backed the world changing musician, Bob Marley.  RMSS introduced their Italian/English new original song, "Ciao Bella Signorina" to excellent response.  This song could launch the band into the stratosphere.  Standing toe to toe with a great world band shows the ability and potential international appeal of Rico and the band.  Thanks to all the wonderful staff at HOB, especially Chuck Dinkins.
March 8, 2003
The Orlando Harley Davidson WLOQ 103.1 "100 Years Of Harley Concert" was exciting and interesting.  Big stage, big bikes, lots of leather, and RMSS make a great mix.  Jimmy Sommers followed RMSS with a tight set of his smooth sax jazz.  Thanks to Jeff and Amy at WLOQ and all at Harley.
February 27, 2003
The Velvet Sessions at the Hard Rock Hotel are fast becoming the hottest monthly event in Orlando.  RMSS opened the show with a blistering set.  Loverboy came out sounding as great as ever playing hit song after hit song with lead vocalist,Mike Reno in top form.  Original members guitarist, Paul Dean, drummer, Matt Frenette, and keyboardist, Doug Johnson sounded tight with their new bassist, Spider.  They were kicking out the jams all night.  The band and crew of Loverboy was very accommodating and friendly to RMSS.  Thanks to Lou and Eik at HR Hotel.  Great night had by all.
February 26, 2003
Outside at Black Fin  in Winter Park Village is always a great night for RMSS!  The first show in 2 months was hot as expected.  Chris Valentino on drums, David Gonzalez on bass are great additions!  Nayla added her energy and talent to our backing vocals very well also.
February 2, 2003
Joining producer/engineer Juan Covas in the studio to produce two songs for the girl group “N-Fininty,” Rico lays down many guitar tracks and re-writes the songs for the group. Juan and the girls are very pleased with the results. Rico has been asked to contribute more of his production skills to their songs in the near future. More producing of acts is in the future for RM.
January 26, 2003
Rico Monaco appeared as “Special Guest Guitarist” with the Dana Kamide Band at Orlando’s “Dowdy Pavillion Super Bowl Party” to benefit The Quest Foundation. High energy and rockin’ with Dana and the boys!
January 13, 2002
RMSS has had a wonderfully successful 2002 and are looking forward to taking the next big step in 2003! The band is currently focusing on writing new material for their next recording. They plan to take a little time off as they do every year to do this and then get back out for live shows in a month or so. They are hard at work reinventing, recharging, and rededicating the sound of the band. The vitality of this band is based on incorporating new influences and furthering the “signature style” of the band by tearing the entire thing down to its core then rebuilding. They are well on their way as of this writing! As always, the band and crew thank you all for your support. See you at our next show in your area in 2003!
December 31, 2002
Rico Monaco makes a guest appearance with the Dana Kamide Band (http://www.danakamide.com) at the Miro New Year’s Eve Formal Party in downtown Orlando. Stepping on stage before midnight and “blowing the roof off the place” was what Rico did with Dana’s band. Clearly, the highlight of the evenings’ festivities.

 
December 28, 2002
Church Street Market, Orlando, FL  Cold weather, hot band.  RMSS rocked downtown Orlando!  Tribadism opened the show and warmed up the crowd well.
December 19, 2002
The Hard Rock Hotel, Orlando, FL  "Velvet Sessions."  Instantly accepted and loved by the audience at this great monthly event on the last Thursday of every month.  Look for RMSS to appear again opening for a national act.

 
November 15, 2002
World Center Marriott, Orlando, FL
Incredible top notch convention put on by Marriott. Perry Lynch deserves much credit and thanks from all of us. The Marriott family in attendance and corporate convention planners made the evening extremely special. 17 piece RMSS band including 4 horns, 4 dancers, and two female backing vocalists. Great show. The 27th floor presidential suite was an excellent place to spend the night for the band. Thanks Perry, Charles at Blade Agency, and Marriott!
November 8, 2002
The Blue Martini, West Palm Beach, FL
at "Cityplace" (561.835.8601) - 550 S. Rosemary Avenue
8 PM to Midnight - RMSS back in the area!
October 3 - 13, 2002
Cabo Wabo Cantina, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. WOW! Go here for the story and here for the pics!
September 24, 2002
Current News - Rico Monaco & Sol Sons have been voted as one of the three finalists in the Hard Rock Live "Cabo Wabo Battle Of The Bands" contest.  Thanks so very much to everyone who voted - the entire band feels incredibly blessed with this opportunity.  The winning band will be announced on Thursday, September 26 - and then maybe a celebration round of Tequila will be in order - keep your fingers crosses!
September 19, 2002
Hard Rock Live "Cabo Wabo Battle Of The Bands" Semi-finals, Orlando, FL - RMSS wins again in the second round.  Thanks to all our friends and fans who came out and thanks to everyone at the Hard Rock.  Now the voting will begin - make sure to verify your votes after submitting!!!
September 5, 2002
Hard Rock Live "Cabo Wabo Battle Of The Bands", Orlando, FL - RMSS wins by a landslide in the first round.  Thanks to all our friends who continue to support us.  Next is Thursday Sept. 19, 2002 for the Orlando Finals of the Cabo Battle Of Bands.  The entire band is gelling like never before.  Many positive things are happening and we thank God for that.  Thanks to everyone at Hard Rock.
Road Log by Rico Monaco from his tour as the "Special Guest Guitarist" with The Thrusters Aug. 23 thru Aug. 31, 2002.

Sunday Sept. 1, 2002 - HOME. At midnight returned to home sweet home and my bed. A little run down and tired because we traveled 4600 miles and played one nighters every night for 9 days in a row! I want to thank James Humann, my good friend, for inviting me as the "Special Guest Guitarist" on this tour. JC, Jeff, Tony, and our good friend Seth who documented the entire trip with photos/video were very good to me also.

Saturday August 31, 2002 - Hard Rock Cafe Myrtle Beach, SC - The coolest looking Hard Rock shaped like a pyramid. We ended the tour in style by rocking the house down! "RAWK!"

Friday August 30, 2002 - Grog & Tankard Niteclub in Georgetown, DC. - Tremendous day in the beautiful capital of the USA. Visited the Hershorn Musuem of Modern Art, Air & Space Museum (saw and IMAX 3D movie about the Space Station and a planetarium movie called Infinity Express about the discoveries we are making about the universe), The Museum Of Natural History, and took a walk around the White House. The WH looks very well secured to me. The gig was great and I had a great Italian meal at Mama Maria's & Enzio's in Georgetown.

Thursday August 29, 2002 - Hard Rock Cafe Washington, DC - Another great gig hosted by Stephanie of Hard Rock. The show featured a Budweiser/Maxim Magazine Party. We rocked the house as usual. Stayed in historic Georgetown that night.

Wednesday August 28, 2002 - Hard Rock Cafe Boston, MA - Left immediately following the Pittsburgh gig at 3 AM for Boston and only stopped for a necessary 2-hour rest along the way. 15 hours total. We passed over the George Washington Bridge in NYC. Hard to drive by my beloved city without stopping for some pizza or a canoli! Played in Bean Town with opener "Clutch Grabwell" a great band. The Yankees shut out the Red Sox that night right down the street at Fenway Park that night!

Tuesday August 27, 2002 - Hard Rock Cafe Pittsburgh, PA - Left for Pittsburgh the next morning and had a flat on our 30 foot RV at the entrance to a tunnel. I climbed the mountain and had a great view. Got to Pittsburgh at dusk. Jogged some big hills before getting ready to "ROCK!" The steel city is amazing. I was thoroughly impressed by the people, the buildings, bridges, and the brand new Hard Rock Cafe, which features an "Angel" over the bar. We brought a bunch of kids up to sing "Blitzkrieg Bop" by the Ramones! Made some great friends there.

Monday August 26, 2002 - TriTone Club in Philadelphia, PA - We left at 2 AM for Philadelphia, which turned, into a 16-HOUR HELL DRIVE! South St. in Philly is a great place and we had a good gig. I met some great people there. Stayed in a 200-year-old farmhouse, which had a goat that had an "Elvis-like" pompadour!

Sunday August 25, 2002 - Hard Rock Cafe Nashville, TN - Great show in Music City. Great host Todd let us shower at his home.

Saturday August 24, 2002 - Hard Rock Cafe Memphis, TN - The home of Elvis and Beal St. was great. Our visit to Sun Studios and Graceland was worth the trip itself! Long Live The King! TCB.

Friday August 23, 2002 - Hard Rock Cafe Atlanta, GA - We hit Hot' Lanta and opened the tour "on fire" Big crowd and great loft to stay in hosted by our friend Greg!
August 18, 2002
Jazz Jams presented by WLOQ 103.1 at Central Park, Winter Park, FL.  We arrive after only 2 hours sleep from our flights from NYC and have a great reception from our friends in Winter Park!  Nearly, 2000 people came and stayed for the entire show.  That was 3 times more than the other Jazz Jams shows in the series this year!  RMSS sold out of CD's!  WLOQ was great and loved the band.  We made many new friends.  New vocalist, Page, is fitting in very well and he is driving the women wild.  We are thankful for the support we are receiving from our home base.  The BUZZ is building and believe it or not, the big wigs in New York are can hear that noise coming from RMSS here in Orlando!  Thanks to WLOQ 103.1 and Panullo's Restaurant for all you did to promote this show.
August 16, 2002
Le Bar Bat, New York, NY - The house of Bat will never be the same!  It was a tight fit for all of RMSS on the compact stage, so the crowd decided to pay tribute to that fact by packing the  dance floor.  This particular venue seemed to mix well with the RMSS formula of live rhythm, horns, soaring vocals and Rico's stellar guitar work.  Much to the delight of the traditional Latin/Jazz fans in the crowd, Tito Puente, Jr. joined the band for the second half of their set.  There was an unprecidented request for the band to perform two additional encore's.  RMSS would like to thank Le Bar Bat for helping make this NYC trip a memorable one.
August 15, 2002
Arlene Grocery, New York, NY - RMSS was able to achieve exactly what they set out to prove this evening - that if they can make it here in the Big Apple, they can make it anywhere!  The debut NYC show was a musical delight to all in attendance.   From the opening note to the final encore, they had the Grocery faithful grooving to what is quickly becoming the hottest sound in Rock-n-Roll today.  After wowing the crowd with RMSS classics for over an hour, Tito Puente, Jr. joined them on stage in an inspiring set that included some of his fathers own classics.  The band would like to thank everyone who came out, especially the friends and relatives of the new singer Page.
August 13, 2002
We have been asked to participate in a national battle of the bands sponsored by Hard Rock Cafe.  We will be performing on Thursday September 5, 2002 at Hard Rock Live in Orlando.  Please, email us for FREE Tickets at ricmon164@aol.com  Include your name, phone number, address and number of tickets requested.  We can provide as many tickets as you can distribute for us.  
      The winner of the contest will open for Sammy Hagar & The Waboritas (featuring Michael Anthony from Van Halen) at Sammy's club Cabo Wabo in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico for  "Sammy Hagar's Mexican Meltdown!"  The first round we must win is at Hard Rock Live on Monday Sept 5.  Come one and all to vote for us.  Only people in attendance can vote!  So, we need your help.  Then if we win that night we play against 2 other bands on Sept. 19 and people in attendance vote for the winner.  After that if we win, they put the 12 regional winners songs up via MP3 and people vote online to pick the top 3 winners.  Then Sammy Hagar and his band pick the one winner who opens for Sammy 2 days in a row on the first weekend in October in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico at CABO WABO!  That sounds like the perfect gig for certain Latin Rock band named RMSS to us.  We appreciate your help on that one.  Go to www.hardrockcafe.com to find out more and to register for a free trip to the show on October 4 & 5 in Mexico with Sammy.
Friday and Saturday, August 2, 3, 2002
Black Fin, Winter Park, FL - WOW.  What a big weekend.  First of all, the band debuted their new great vocalist, frontman, performer to their ranks.  His name is Page.  After only 4 rehearsals, he handled the pressure fabulously.  The audience warmed up to him very quickly and it was obvious by the end of Saturday night that he is going to be a tremendous addition to RMSS.  The club was rockin' as usual with dancers filling the floor for the entire night of both shows.  There is something special happening in Winter Park for RMSS.  If you have been there you know what we are talking about.  If you haven't, you should make an effort to check the band out at the next Winter Park show on Sunday Aug. 18, 2002 on the green at Central Park on Park Ave at 1 PM to 3 PM outside!  See you all there.  NYC HERE WE COME!!!!!!!!
July 15, 2002
Current News, Rico Monaco Special Guest Guitarist on The Thrusters (www.thethrusters.com) new CD "Another Roadside Attraction" just released!  Rico Co-wrote 4 songs on the CD and layed down some hot rockin' guitar on 7 tracks total.  Check the Tour Info page for the 10 day tour Rico will be doing as a Guest Guitarist with the Thrusters.  They consist of Hard Rock Cafes (Atlanta, Memphis, Nashville, Boston, Washington DC, Myrtle Beach, and a club called Tri-Tone in Philadelphia!
July 13, 2002
Black Fin, Winter Park, FL - A sure fire way to tell if you are doing the right thing (as a band) is to look at the who the audience is and how they react.  Well, if packing a club to the "gills" with 70% females and causing the dance floor to be packed for the entire 3 sets isn't a positive sign, we don't know what is.  That's exactly what's happening everytime RMSS grace the stage at the Black Fin.  Momentum continues to build toward their big Mini-Tour to New York City in mid-August!  Anticipation, excitement, confidence, strength, grace, compassion, and love are the emotions dominating RMSS right now.  Thanks to everyone who continues to support the band.
July 3, 2002
Current News, WTKS 104.1 Real Radio "Philips Phile."  Rico Monaco & Sol Sons wins "Pick Of The Week" on the 3 PM to 7 PM Top Rated Radio Show in Central Florida!  RMSS won "Band Of The Day" on Tuesday July 2, 2002 then swept Pick Of The Week on today!  Jim Philips played "Sanctuary," "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing," and "Mambo, Songo, Vamos A Bailar!"  Thanks to the Philips Phile and WTKS 104.1.  Radio, Radio, Radio here we come!
June 26, 2002
Current News, New York City here they come! Rico Monaco's business trip has resulted in at least two dates in NYC for RMSS featuring Tito Puente Jr. Thursday August 15 is at Arlene's Grocery in the East Village and Friday August 16 is at Le Bar Bat in Midtown. A few more dates in the area may be included on this all important Mini-Tour of the greatest city in the world. Music industry, friends, and fans will be packing those clubs.  For more information on these dates go to the Tour Info page on this website.
June 22, 2002
Black Fin, Winter Park, FL - Some nights are just  wild.  There is something in the air that everyone in the club is breathing and the band is playing so well, the audience is intoxicated by the "musical vibes."  Whatever it was, RMSS was hammering it home to the packed house.  The dancing and pure emotional release of the audience/band made for an incredible night.  The fan-base of RMSS is very obviously growing tremendously in the Orlando area.  Thanks to Frank Morello and his staff at Black Fin.
June 22, 2002
Current News, Rico Monaco returned from New York City completing the 10 day business trip with wonderful results.  The music industry is starting to take notice of the band.  RMSS will be going to NYC in the middle of August to play for their many friends/fans in the NYC/NJ/Connecticut area and for the growing list of interested music business representatives.  Tito Puente, Jr. will be a special guest on these shows.  FYI, in New York City just the mention of "Tito Puente" is enough to make any knowing music fan or music insider "drop to their knees in praise" of the late great maestro Tito, Sr.  The band plans on showing what they are capable of and bringing Tito, Jr. along to show what they are creating for him.  The recent demos Rico Monaco produced included two Tito, Sr. classic remakes and two Rico Monaco/Pete Buddenbaum original compositions.  EVERYONE who has heard these recordings can see the great positive direction the band is heading in on their own and as the fuel for the New Tito Puente Jr./RMSS show!
May 25, 2002
The Social (formerly Sapphire), downtown Orlando, FL.  RMSS displayed for all to see what they are all about at this best known showcase club in downtown Orlando.  Playing a double bill with The Joint Chiefs, who are the biggest local draw in O-town, the one and a half hour set that RMSS played left the stage "smoldering!"  When Bob Katz, world renowned mastering engineer, stays for the entire RMSS set and says "loved the performance, vitality, and level of musicianship and professionalism," you know you are kicking ass!  The Joint Chiefs are a "hard soul" band whose style mixes well with RMSS.  Thanks to Mark and Brett for making the show happen.
May 22, 2002
Slingapours, downtown Orlando, FL. This great new club has a great vibe and the band fed off of that. The show was full of energy and the audience was very responsive throughout as usual. As the band puts it, we are making "one new fan at a time" and that philosophy is what it takes to continue build that all important "BUZZ." Thanks to the staff at Slingapours- Mike, Jess, Josh, and everyone else.
May 18, 2002
Current News - 660 AM, 10 AM to 11 AM "I Need To Know Show" featuring Attorney Tony Suarez.  Tony played "Tell Me" and "Don't You Worry Bout A Thing" from the Rico Monaco & Sol Sons CD to tremendous reviews on his radio show.  He gave away two CD's and 8 tickets to the RMSS show at Slingapours on Wed. May 22, 2002.
May 17 & 18, 2002
The Black Fin, Winter Park, FL.  Packed to the gills both nights!  The audience forced the band back onto the stage for an encore on Friday and the club had one of it's best Saturday's ever!   Need we say more?  Freddy Sepulveda shows why we he is a tremendous bi-lingual vocalist/performer on both nights.  His vocals on the original song "Sanctuary" sends chills through the crowd.
May 7, 2002
Current News - Rico Monaco & Sol Sons will be recording 5 songs for Tito Puente Jr. and tracking new songs for RMSS at the same sessions.  The recording will start on May 27, 28, and 29.  These songs are intended to facilitate Tito and RMSS in gaining interest for a recording deal.  The recording is also a pre-cursor to live shows with Tito/RMSS that are in the initial planning stages.
May 5, 2002
Current News - WJRR 101.1 -The Rock Station played the RMSS song "Love Don't Come Easy" on the Native Noise show.  The announcer statement after the song was played said it all.  "What more is there to say?  That is a great song by a great band!"  The band is crossing over into Rock, Latin, Pop, Jazz radio.  Lookout!  The potential ability of this band to touch people of every background is becoming a reality!  Earlier in the day and all week the biggest Spanish station in the area 98.1 La Nueva pushed RMSS for the big "Cinco De Mayo" show at Old Town.  These two stations and all the others that are taking notice of RMSS show the incredible CROSSOVER possibilities of the band!
May 5, 2002
"Cinco De Mayo" at Old Town, Kissimmee, FL.  98.1 La Nueva hosted this very successful packed show.  The Latino heavy crowd showed great appreciation throughout this fantastic show.  This is the beginning of RMSS' incursion into the Latin community!  RMSS proved that they are unique Orlando band that the Latin community and Anglo community are both embracing here in Central Florida!  The BUZZ is building!
May 4, 2002
"Taste Of Oviedo" Festival - A great day outdoors in Oviedo for RMSS!  The band headlined and closed this festival.  The compliments the band received were extremely positive.  We can't thank the fans of the band enough!
May 3, 2002
Hard Rock Live, Orlando.  RMSS continues to dazzle their fans with their great show!  Dimas and Carlos started off the show with the percussion rhythm to "Tropico" from the back bar of the Hard Rock and then they marched to the stage through the audience.  The rest of the show was powerful and as always the band received a tremendous response!  Another great turnout and Hard Rock show that shows this band is meant for the BIG stages!
April 17, 2002
The Black Fin "Live at 5" hosted by WLOQ 103.1 - Winter Park Village,  Florida - Playing outside in this very popular new open air entertainment / restaurant mall, has it's advantages.  When you see hundreds of people watching the band from behind them on the streets and sidewalks, then you know that the band is making an impact.  Once again over 40 new people are signed to the expanding email list!  The band kicks out the jams and shows the Winter Park crowd what Latin Rock is all about.  RMSS are making a name for themselves in this club.  As WLOQ stated on the air "Rico Monaco & Sol Sons are just excellent!"  Great show!
April 14, 2002
Current News - Rico Monaco has just finished recording guitar parts for 7 tracks for The Thrusters at Atomic Audio in Tampa.  The 6 originals were songs that Rico helped write and arrange for his friend and Thrusters band leader, James Humann.  The recording will be released through The Thrusters website and there is interest for possible soundtrack use.
March 27, 2002
House Of Blues - Westside Downtown Disney, Orlando,  Florida - It appears the plan to build their following in the Central Florida area is working.  A loud and large crowd made the evening a success.  RMSS came out on fire with a percussion intro into the well hidden "nugget" from their latest CD "Tropico."  From there the 7 piece band and their 4 piece horn section blazed through an hour long showcase set.  They ended the show with a powerful version of the opening track from the CD, "Mambo, Songo, Vamos A Bailar" which featured Freddy (lead vocals) "salsa dancing" during Rico's solo on stage with a wonderful partner named Veronica Valentin!  The famous HOB vibe, stage, sound, and lights were the final touch.  Many fans said to the band after the show, "you guys were made for stages like these."  The band thanks everyone for the support and wants to welcome their new friends into the RMSS Street Team.  Spread the good word about RMSS!
March 16, 2002
Lost & Found - Longwood, Florida - RMSS played with a passion that very few bands can approach.  It is easy to see and hear why this band has already left a mark on the Central Florida music scene.  The band has been developing the "buzz."  This showcase club has the stage and great staff to be a part of that development.  The new song "Passion" rocks hard and receives major applause each time the band plays it.  "One Step Away" is a song that is going to be a classic as the band puts a few more final touches on it.  Thanks Lenore, Troy, and all at the Lost & Found
February 27, 2002
The Black Fin - Winter Park, Florida - Rico and the band dealt with the unusually cold weather spectacularly while performing outside. The sounds of RMSS could be heard all throughout the outdoor Winter Park Village shops and restaurants. Tremendous reaction to the band from the packed house. Many people very interested in following the career path of the band that purchased CD's. The band has been asked to return soon! WLOQ 103.1 were there and were extremely impressed but that is nothing new for this band!
February 21, 2002
The Social - Orlando, Florida - This new downtown club (formerly known as The Sapphire Supper Club) was set ablaze musically as the hot sounds of Rico Monaco & Sol Sons transformed what would have been an average Thursday evening into a Latin Rock dance party.   Everyone in the band performed in rare fashion as they electrified the audience with most of the songs on their latest album along with two new numbers ("Passion" and "One Step Away") - both are sure to become classics.  The crowd was also treated to a special appearance by Tito Puente, Jr. who came up on stage to join the band for several songs.  Thanks to Amy Steinberg and The Midnight Ramblers for rounding out a great evening of entertainment.
February 15, 2002
"Good Day Orlando" Fox 35 Morning show.  The band was interviewed by the co-host of the show Melissa Ross at 8:49 PM.  Then they counted off their Latin-pop/rock romantic song "Tell Me."  The Fox 35 crew, Melissa, co-host Michael Brooks, weatherman doug Kammerer loved the band and asked them to close out the show.  The band obliged playing "Mambo, Songo, Vamos A Bailar" to the estimated 200,000 television viewers in the central Florida area!  Thanks to everyone for their positive emails and phone calls!  Special thanks to all at Fox 35 epsecially Julia and Casey.  The band couldn't have been treated better!
February 10, 2002
"Kaleidoscope Festival" with Tito Puente Jr. in downtown West Palm Beach on Clematis Street entertainment district.  Unfortunately, the show was rained out after 8" inches of a tropical drenching.
January 7, 2002
Current News - RMSS will be focusing on writing new material for the next few months.  The last year has given the band many new musical ideas they must complete and that is the "fuel" for the growing continued success of the band.


Monday, December 31, 2001
Disney World's Epcot Center New Year's Celebration - Orlando, FL. - A great way to end the year. One of the best New Year's gigs in the entire country, in front of the world famous icon, the "Epcot Center ball." Rico Monaco & Sol Sons ended a banner year and began a new one making believers of 10's of thousands. From backing Tito Puente Jr. at last year's Epcot Center New Year's to playing huge shows in San Francisco, Paris, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, etc., to releasing their self titled stunning CD, the band had a fantastic year! The Epcot show was amazing and the band wants to thank all the good people at Disney for their professionalism. Special thanks to Brad Ross for giving RMSS the opportunity to perform here! The best to all of our friends around the world in 2002! We love you all!
Friday, December 7, 2001
Billboard Live ASCAP Record Label Showcase - South Beach Miami, FL. - After being interviewed on Telemundo by Entertainment Producer and Anchor, Alfonso De Anda, Rico Monaco & Sol Sons took the stage last among 5 bands.  The venue is typical South Beach art deco style with a great sound/video stage setup.  The heavily Latino filled room was given a heavy dose of the signature sound of RMSS!  Even among the music industry insiders there was lots of moving and grooving.  After doing the first 4 songs off the band's latest CD, they treated the crowd to the unofficial Puerto Rican national anthem, "Preciosa."  Freddy Sepulveda's lead vocals were incredible on this classic as usual.  Dimas, Carlos, Mike, Gard, Pete, horns- Dean and Brent played with passion.  Many CD's were grabbed up by the music business pros in attendance for further review!  Thanks to Vanessa Rodriguez, ASCAP, and Billboard Live for the first class treatment.
Saturday, November 24, 2001
TD Waterhouse Center "Orlando Magic vs. Charlotte Hornets" - Orlando, Florida - The Pre-Game show featuring RMSS at 7 PM was held on center court while thousands poured into the arena for the game.  The band received a great reception and played with their typical high emotion.  The applause and many generous words spoken to band members confirmed the success of the first show. Backstage, Dr. J (Julius Erving) of the Magic organization was very complimentary to the band.  The Half-Time performance was a "lights down in the spotlights" center court performance that "rocked" the 15,000 in attendance to the rafters! Scott Stapp of Creed was courtside in front of the band and clearly enjoyed the evenings events!  The Magic lost a close game by 2 points but the night was a hit for RMSS.  They were on television in Orlando and Charlotte which many thousands of fans witnessed!  Thanks to Jay Moore and the great Orlando Magic organization for the opportunity!  See you at our next performance during the playoff run!
Saturday, November 10, 2001
"Pig On The Pond Festival" - Clermont, Florida - Directly off the road from the thriving multicultural Mecca of Miami to Clermont a beautiful country setting in the hills of Central Florida.  The band "wowed" the large crowd of thousands at this wonderful festival.  Further proof that this band can satisfy a varying degree of music lovers!  Hearing a southern accent sing "Oye, Cayuco" is a beautiful thing!
Friday, November 9, 2001
Tobacco Road, Miami, FL - Miami, Florida - This 89 year old landmark club was jumping the minute RMSS went onstage.  The multicultural crowd that exists in Miami was a perfect audience for the band.  The 3 hour show was incredibly well received and a return visit is in the works! Thanks Cosmo, Lou, Mark and all at the show that night!


Saturday, October 27, 2001
Jacksonville Coliseum "Fiesta Caliente" - Jacksonville, Florida - Headlining after the big Florida/Georgia football game right next door with 83,000 people, the band played in the 10,000 seat coliseum and showed that they know how to "pour it on" in the big venues.  They have been getting a lot of experience in arena size shows and it is paying off.  An impressive show that was followed by a great time partying with Florida and Georgia college fans at the "Landing" entertainment complex in downtown.  Jacksonville is quickly joining the rest of Florida and elsewhere with high regard and respect for RMSS.


Friday, October 19, 2001
Marriott World Center, Orlando, FL - Another great show for the LA Law firm with conventioneers from around the country.  The band was showered with compliments from people who live in New York City, San Francisco, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Los Angeles. Further proof that RMSS appeals to a wide variety of cultures and people. Thanks to everyone at the Marriott and those from LA!
Thursday, October 18, 2001
Orlando Weekly - "Review of Orlando Weekly Awards Show"- (photo caption)...."all the world's a stage for World-traveling guitarist Rico Monaco (and Sol Sons), who prowled the Hard Rock Live stage like a man on a mission (to rock)."  - Mark Padgett
Saturday, October 13, 2001
Orlando Music Awards at the Hard Rock Live.  A great night for the Orlando music scene.  RMSS made a statement that although they are not in the "cliche" group of bands of Orlando, they are the best band in the area, hands down!  It's good to get some recognition from the locals but RMSS are aiming for "International" success. "You end up where you aim."  RMSS is aiming for touching millions of people throughout the world!   Thanks to Mark Padgett and Jeff Nolan for including us in the show.  Check out the 18 song Orlando Music Awards CD that is available through the Orlando Weekly.  RMSS' song "Tell Me" is track #5 and stands out very well.
Saturday, September 29, 2001
Skippers Smokehouse, Tampa, FL - A great show that was well received.  The band continues to build a following in the Tampa area.  JD (John Castleman), trumpet, and James Hosmer, trombone, added a double dose of brass power to the hot Latin-Rock sound of RM & SS!  We will return to the bay area.
Wednesday, September 26, 2001
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons song "Tell Me" from the self-titled CD is a featured on the "Orlando Music Awards Compilation CD" to be released in October before the awards show. RM & SS will perform live at the ceremony at the Hard Rock Live on October 13, 2001. Everyone attending the OMA show at HR will receive a copy of the compilation CD for FREE! 18 songs from all different bands in Orlando including RM & SS!  Tickets will be $10 and it will be a big night for the growing Orlando music scene. It is nice to see the "home base" recognizing the band as clearly one of the best in Florida.


September 2001
Look for Rico Monaco & Sol Sons (featuring Rico, Freddy, and Pete) to perform the National Anthem at 3 Orlando Magic games this coming season.  The band may also play a BIG concert in the TD Waterhouse Center following a game!
Saturday, August 25, 2001
"Elvis Costello Tribute Birthday Show" benefit for 88.5 WMNF, Skippers Smokehouse, Tampa FL.  Rico sat in with his friend, James Humann's band, The Thrusters and headlined the 15 band tribute to Elvis Costello.  Rico showed his versatility and learned 4 songs by the great songwriter.  Rico and the Thrusters raised the roof to the highest level of the evening with their renditions of Elvis classics "Veronica," "Beaten To The Punch," "Radio Radio," and "What's So Funny 'Bout Peace, Love and Understanding."  Thanks to The Thrusters, WMNF, and Skippers for a great much needed rockin' night!


Saturday, August 18, 2001
Barnes & Noble, Orlando, FL.   "Unplugged" and live in the cafe.  The band showed that talent can be presented in different forms and this show was a huge success with the band selling a large number of CD's and T-Shirts during the show.  Being "unplugged" only enhances different aspects of the incredible talent on display in Rico Monaco & Sol Sons!  Thanks B&N and to all our friends who were there.   We packed that place!


Friday, August 17, 2001
Hard Rock Live, Orlando, FL.  Over 1100 people attended the Rico Monaco & Sol Sons headlining performance at this great venue!   Sol Sons rocked the house and many left saying incredibly bold things about the future of this band based out of Orlando.  Many industry insiders were in attendance and we can tell you that there is a lot of "jockeying" going on behind the scenes for RM & SS to sign with some of these industry types.  But RM & SS know that "WHO" you work with is much more important than just signing.   They will let the dust settle and pick the best opportunity for them.  Thanks to everyone who attended the show and the subsequent VIP Party in the Hard Rock Cafe next door after the show.


Sunday, July 15, 2001
Skippers Smokehouse - "West Coast Of Florida CD Release Party." - Tampa, FL.  The band tore apart this "Louisianna swamp-like" bar that has a great vibe and incredible reputation.  The band sold many CD's and t-shirts.  The band found many new supporters.  The staff was awesome and word is that this performance was seen by some important agents who are working on getting the band many great gigs in the near future!   Thanks Tom, Vince, Phil, and the entire crew at Skippers!  See you all soon!


July 13, 2001
After returning from a business/pleasure trip that saw Rico Monaco go from the extremely successful jam packed (about 10,000 concert-goers) Tito Puente Jr./Rico Monaco & Sol Sons show at the "Mundo Latino Festival" in south Paris to touring France, Italy, and going over the border into Switzerland, Rico and the bands' future will never be the same.  The new self titled CD was played in it's entirety at the Hard Rock Cafe in Paris, in nightclubs in Nice, France (French Riviera), Milan, Italy, San Bartolomeo in Galdo, Lucera, Avellino, Salerno, Fano, and it is in the hands of one of the biggest Italian Singers named "Raf" for his review.   Many contacts were made throughout France and mainly Italy.  50 CD's were distributed to industry people, nightclubs, cousins, and new friends many of whom loved the music on the CD!!!!!  Most importantly, Rico visited his grandparents hometowns in southern Italy's Campana Province called San Bartolomeo in Galdo, Avellino, and Naples.   The Italian musicians Pino Daniele, Raf, and Adriano Celentano have not left the CD players in Rico's car since this tremendous trip.  Besides the truly awe inspiring visits to Lago Maggiore, Milan, Florence, Campana, Salerno, the Roman ruins of Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, Rome, Fano (on the Adriatic Coast), San Gimignano (Medieval town) and Orvieto (Medieval town), the trip will undoubtedly lead to many new inspired songs and may lead to some touring for the band in Europe eventually.  The people of Italy are warm and friendly.  The Roman ruins, ancient sites, beautiful mountainous landscape, sea shores, food, food, food, wine, wine, wine, were beyond description.  But the family (cousins) Rico met for the first time were the most heart warming part of this great productive 2 week history lesson.  Rico's Italian and French language skills improved two-fold while there!  Thanks to all of the family and new friends in Italy and France!  A Presto & A Bientot!


Saturday, June 28, 2001
Mundo Latino Festival - Paris, France.  Paris will never be the same after this show - in what appeared to be the entire Latin population of Paris in attendance, Rico Monaco & Sol Sons along with Tito Puente, Jr. put on an incredible show to help showcase this annual festival.  From the first note to the last, the crowd of thousands swayed and danced to the jam packed set of songs thats these masters of Latin Rock fed them.  By far the most energetic show of the festival.


June 20, 2001
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons were voted "Band Of The Day" on 104.1 WTKS Philips Phile here in Orlando.  They just received the new CD the day before!  The Philips Phile is the Number 1 show in its time slot (the very popular time of 3 PM to 7 PM) in central Florida. This is only the beginning!


Friday, June 15, 2001
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons CD Release Party @ Tabu Nightclub, Downtown Orlando, FL - The self-titled CD has finally been released and in what grand fashion.  The "buzz" in the air was so positive and strong that everyone at the show/party was feeling it.  What can we say?  All of the tremendous efforts of the band and all the people listed on the thanks lists in the CD are a big part of the "snowball rolling down hill" thing that is happening for the band.  Tito Puente Jr. energized the stage with that famous charisma he inherited from his pop.  And his lovely touching complimentary speech about the band was priceless.


Saturday, June 2, 2001
Black & White Ball - Downtown San Francisco, CA.  Although nothing officially registered on any Richter scales this evening, I'm sure there were reports of the earth moving as Rico Monaco & Sol Sons along with Tito Puente, Jr. showed the debutantes of downtown San Francisco how to make an impact on the dance floor.  Treated to the main stage of the annual Black & White Ball, The band layed down a rocking hour-long set that had the crowd of thousands dancing from the first note to the last.  Tito was so moved during the performance, that he performed an extended Timbale solo that had patrons comparing him to his late father - the great Latin/Jazzmaster Tito Puente.


Friday, June 1, 2001
Lupus 2001 Benefit - Hard Rock Live, Orlando, FL.  What an incredible evening!  Tito Puente, Jr, backed by RM&SS helped bring the 'Rock' to this annual benefit concert.  The band played along with many other acts including The Monkees, Jon Secada, The Pointer Sisters, Aaron Carter, Barry Williams, Deborah Gibson, Krystal and Howie Dorough of the Backstreet Boys.


Thursday, May 31, 2001
SX Grand Opening - Pointe Orlando, FL - Great restaurant, nightclub, state of the art game room, and meeting place at Pointe Orlando.  Many industry insiders were on hand and many were blown away by RM & Sol Sons performance.  The food was tremendous.  One of the management staff told band members, "if you guys played here every night we would be packed all the time!"  Thank you for the exciting grand opening and Buenos Suerte to all at XS.


May 16, 2001
The artwork and mastering of the new "Rico Monaco & Sol Sons" CD is complete as of today.  On a business trip to New York and Connecticut, Rico Monaco is happy to report it sounds and looks awesome!  The band will be on schedule for their June 15 CD Release Party at Tabu in downtown Orlando.  Thanks to Steven Jacaruso for the great artwork/graphic design, Anna Maria Jannotti, Robert Wilson, and Edna Togba for the photography, and Tom Bender, Phil Magnotti, and Mick Gazauski @ Barking Doctor for the excellent mastering job!  All systems are GO!


Thursday, May 10, 2001
Hard Rock Live,Orlando, FL - Headlining their first show at this "Roman-like" concert hall was a tremendous success for Rico & Sol Sons.  The band will be appearing here again on June 1 with Tito Puente Jr. for Howie Dorough's Lupus benefit.  The show was started off by Olive Carpet, Anduze, and 11 Red Apples.  All bands did a great job.  But Sol Sons showed why they are the next "Big thing" coming out of Orlando.  It was only their second show since coming off a recording hiatus for 5 months and it was only a sign of what's to come.   Lookout Florida then the world, we are coming!!!!


Saturday, May 5, 2001
"Cinco De Mayo Festival" Chevy's West Oaks Mall in Ocoee, FL - The first RM & Sol Sons show since December of 2000!   Great show and good warmup for the big "headlinging" show at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando on May 10!   Thanks to all the wonderful people who came out to support the band.  The kind words of encouragement mean more than you can imagine at this point in our development.  See you at Hard Rock Live!


Saturday, April 28, 2001
"Sunsets' Beach Fest" Clearwater Beach, FL.  .  On the sand on a beautiful Florida night, on one of the best beaches in the world!  What a great show with Tito Puente Jr.   Thanks Lisa and the crew in Clearwater.  You guys treated the band great!  See you soon!


Wednesday, April 11, 2001
Mixing at PARC Studios is completed.  After 11 straight days in the studio, most days leaving the studio at 4, 5, or 6 AM!, Rico Monaco and George Spatta called it a wrap.  The sessions were tremendous and when people begin to hear the material it will be obvious that the recording is excellent.  The blood, sweat, and tears used to finish the recording is what makes this a "Recording To Be Proud Of Forever."  This recording sounds great thanks to George and assistants Toby Dearborn and Mike Mehesan (RMSS drummer).  The CD will change the lives of the band when released!  We can't wait for everyone to hear it!  We are expecting to announce the CD Release Party date and location in the coming month.


Friday March 23, 2001
Tito Puente Jr. adds vocals to the Rico Monaco & Sol Sons version of his dads' song "Cayuco" at George Spatta's home studio. Great job by Tito of course. Thanks TP Jr! Freddy, Rico, Pete and the band are continuing to finish vocal tracks as of this writing.  Reports are coming in that the material is "incredible and phat!"


March 22, 2001
ASCAP Songwriters Showcase - Club Tabu, downtown Orlando, FL - What a night!  Tito Puente Jr. and Rico attended this showcase where Howie Dorough of the Backstreet Boys was also performing. Rico and Tito invited Howie to the Samba Room in Orlando after the showcase.  At the Samba Room Tito, Howie, and Rico got up with the band at this new Latin club/restaurant and rocked the house with their version of "Oye Como Va!"  Thanks to Howie for jammin' with us and thanks to the Samba Room for the great food!


March 16, 2001
Diabetes Foundation Benefit Show , Miami, FLJackie Gleason Dinner Theatre with Tito Puente Jr. Once again the boys assisted Tito as they headlined this show in the historic Jackie Gleason Dinner Theatre.  The band put on an amazing show as was revealed with an extremely tight set of songs - the hard work with Tito is starting to pay off.


March 9, 2001
The band has completed all of the drums, bass, percussion, keyboard, piano, and guitar tracks as of tonight for their upcoming CD release!  Rico put the final touches on the bands version of the Tito Puente song "Cayuco" as of 10:00pm tonight and that was the final guitar track to be done.  12 songs (10 originals and 2 covers) plus one interesting percussion based "chant" track are being finished for this recording.  They have been working in the studio 10 to 13 hours a day for 17 of the last 21 days!  Next up is Freddy's vocals!  The band is extremely excited about the sound George Spatta has captured on tape and computer (as the band is using 2" tape as well as Pro Tools computer software) at PARC Studios in Altamonte Springs (just north of Orlando).  Mike Mehesan (drums) has been an assistant engineer through the process and has stated that it sounds incredible already!  The wait has apparently been worth it.  The songs have developed and the band has found the right people to work with.  Stay tuned!


February 16, 2001
Look for a CD release party for Rico Monaco & Sol Sons to be held after the completion of the recording sessions sometime in May 2001!


February 12, 2001
FINALLY!  Rico Monaco & Sol Sons will be heading into PARC Studios of Altamonte Springs, FL to record their next CD on February 16, 2001.  They will be in the studio very often over the next few weeks to complete the project. George Spatta (engineer/producer) will be working with band in the studio.  George has worked on recordings by Eric Clapton, Backstreet Boys, LFO, Dru Hill, Al Green, Skrape (Orlando's latest major label band), among many others. The release will include 10 to 12 songs and should hit the streets in April or May.


January 24th, 2001- Eden Roc Hotel
"Lee Jeans Corporate Party" with Tito Puente Jr. and Rico Monaco & Sol Sons South Beach in Miami is known as a "high profile party town."  Well, Tito, Rico and the band showed that they know how to turn a corporate event into an all out great time.  The scenery was beautiful and the music which featured Tito's pop-dance material and the bands' renditions of his legendary fathers songs was spectacular.  The 4 piece horn section added that brilliant touch only brass can provide (Dean Dukes, Pachuco, James Hosmer, and Chad Shoopman).  Tito put on a great show in the magnificent tradition of his father and adds his own style.  The chemistry between Tito, Rico and the band may lead to some very good things.  Thanks Lee Corporation and South Beach!


January 9, 2001
Rico Monaco & Sol Sons are finishing up pre-production and writing for their next CD this month.   An announcement will be forthcoming on a release date.  This one is going to be HOT!


January 2, 2001
The band will be working with Tito Puente Jr. more after their extremely successful New Years Eve show at Epcot Center backing him up.  There may be some overseas travel and "big" shows coming up with Tito.  Keep checking back here for info.


December 31st, 2000
"Main Stage, Epcot Center - Tribute to Tito Puente", Disney World, Orlando, Florida You know your witnessing something special when a performance on stage is so 'hot' that it makes an otherwise 30 degree evening in Central Florida feel like a Latin-based heatwave.  This is what Tito Puente, Jr. and Rico Monaco & Sol Sons achieved on this magical evening as we passed into the new year.   Performing four separate shows throughout the evening, it's safe to say that most of the 65,000 people in attendance at the park were able to share the boundless energy that these guys were putting out up on the main stage at Epcot.  Married with a full blown light/laser/fireworks show, Rico orchestrated the band (which included a 4-piece horn section) through every emotion possible as Tito Puente, Jr. showcased a performance that would not only make his late father proud - but showed all in attendance that this Latin legacy lives on.