Meet Laura Pelayo of AlterLatino Music & Antonio Pelayo Productions

Thanks for sharing your story with us Laura. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up in a very religious and repressed household, there was a substantial limitation as to what music was allowed. But there was still room for my father’s musical influence to make its mark in my childhood and in my life. This led me to become a huge lover of music at a young age. And thanks to my older siblings, I was introduced to live music at a tender age. Live music and music in general has always been an emotional outlet during life’s challenging hurdles and joyous moments. A good listening session or live concert has always provided a sense of relief and replenishment. Music is obviously a platform for relevant and crucial events around the world that we can learn and be inspired by.

AlterLatino Music
In 2014 a good friend, Angel Aguilar introduced me to reviewing music and capturing moments by contributing with local music media outlets via written and photography form. I’ve contributed with several outlets, but for the past three years, I’ve greatly enjoyed working with AlterLatino Music, created by Angel. It’s our own outlet that allows us the freedom to cover any and all music events according to our taste and passion both in English and Spanish. Some of these have included both amazing local and talented bands and big-hitter classics like Smashing Pumpkins, Interpol, Pixies, Morrissey, Caifanes, Cafe Tacvba, Enrique Bunbury and Zoe. Its been a whole new way of experiencing and appreciating live music.

Antonio Pelayo Productions
My big brother, Antonio Pelayo, has been an inspiration as he is an incredibly hard worker and innovator. Ten years ago he began creating community music and art events and so Antonio Pelayo Productions was born. When I was younger, I used to dabble in the visual arts myself and I never abandoned the appreciation for it therefore these events were right up my alley. I jumped on board as a volunteer at these events throughout the year. Three years ago, I was hired as the Stage/Greenroom Manager. The position certainly came with the challenges of learning it all from scratch. However, it has been one of the best and most gratifying experiences, not to mention I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some of the most amazing people in the local music scene and industry. At times, it can be a very hectic environment, but at the end of the night, knowing that I’ve somehow contributed to making these amazing events happen, makes it all worth it. It has definitely conjured an inspiration  to be more involved in community events.

Has it been a smooth road?
There has been certain challenges but nothing that couldn’t be overcome. I have a full-time job at a Mortgage Bank, a side job as a personal Massage Therapist and a personal and family life. Juggling all of these and incorporating my passions for music and art hasn’t always been easy. A lot of unpleasant personal and family events have created some setbacks and grief. So there’s definitely been some prioritizing and sacrificing along the way. But again, music has always been a rock to lean on during these trying times and the leverage to move forward.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with AlterLatino Music & Antonio Pelayo Productions – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
AlterLatino Music – We are a local music media outlet that covers all genres of music in English and Spanish. We cover local and big production events and concerts in the Los Angeles and Sacramento area. I am a writer and photographer. What I love the most of this outlet is that it gives us the freedom to focus on material according to our taste and passion. While maintaining relevancy and discipline, there are no deadlines or rules to follow.

Antonio Pelayo Productions – A production company that creates events for the community. Over the years, thousands of dollars have been raised for local venues like Plaza de la Raza. Also, hundreds of members of the community have been given the opportunity to bring in their talent and skills and be part of the events.

What isn’t there to like about LA! The variety of anything and everything that you desire is at a finger’s reach. You can obtain a bit of everything; history, art, culture, music, different ethnicities, and beautiful scenery all aroundl. Being exposed to all this on a daily basis and learning from those who reside here that come from all walks of life and all over the world. There is tons to embrace and appreciate in this incredible city.