LOS ANGELES (Darque Records) - Clearing up the swirling speculation and ongoing controversy surrounding former American Idol finalist
Mario Vazquez's sudden March 13 departure from the show, Argentine born, Los Angeles based pop guitarist and recording artist Cesar is setting the record straight about Vazquez's participation as a guest vocalist on Cesar's recently released pop/R&B recording Worlds of Change. The album, released in mid-February by independent label Darque Records, features three guest vocal tracks by Vazquez - "Save The World," "EveryTime" and "God Is Like A Mirror."
"There have been many rumors and inaccuracies in the media outlets since Mario left the show," says Cesar. "My album was released a month before his departure, and it was recorded in 2003 and 2004, long before he was on American Idol. The timing of its release and Mario's being chosen as a finalist is purely coincidental."
"I met Mario through mutual friends here in Los Angeles in 1998, and have been friends with him since that time," he adds. "As one who greatly admired his talent, I hired him to sing on those three vocal tracks, and he did a wonderful job. His many fans who were disappointed with him leaving the show will enjoy his great work on Worlds of Change."
Considered by many "the next Santana" for his energetic guitar amidst a blend of pop, rock and Latin influences, Cesar writes all music and lyrics, performs all guitars while others sing the lead vocals. Another prominently featured artist on Worlds of Change is renowned touring and session singer Steve Real.
Billed by well respected industry publication Music Connection as "an excellent guitarist (who) plays too fast for the human ears but is always in the pocket," Cesar is riding an incredible wave of success due to his popular song "Soldier of Glory," which pays homage to the courage of soldiers in battle as they long for a letter from home.
That caught the ears of the Pentagon, and in May, Cesar will embark on a month long tour to perform for troops in Iraq and a host of six other countries in the Middle East. The show is scheduled to be filled with great moments, dancers, and a touch of home.
Last September, Cesar was asked to perform at the re-dedication of the Bob Hope Hollywood USO. With the USO, he also appeared last December at a special holiday celebration for thousands of children and spouses of American servicemen and women at the Hollywood Park Racetrack.
Cesar was a world renowned guitarist even before moving to the U.S. in the early 90s, appearing throughout Europe at a young age as a solo artist as well as performing with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Frank Sinatra and Al Di Meola.
