What was it like re-recording “Oye Como Va” with Pitbull?
It was fantastic. He probably tried 17 different configurations and he didn’t have to do that because all the royalties go to Tito Puente. But he was so sincere and authentic. Everything he does winds up on NBA halftime or the Super Bowl. He’s an event guy. He makes songs sound like Queen’s “We Will Rock You” or the Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up.” Pitbull is now the guy that makes that kind of energy in arenas.
It was great to hear Ziggy Marley’s “Iron Lion Zion.” That’s not one of his father’s better-known songs.
Yes. As you know, I totally identity and equate myself with Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon. I am one of them and we all have the same message to transform fear on this planet into light and love. It’s the same message in “All You Need Is Love,” “One Love” and “Imagine.” It will never change. Those principles from the 1960s to stop the Vietnam War and just bring more harmony and unity into what’s happening with humans.
Why do you think you’ve managed to survive while all those other people you named have passed away?
I would probably say God’s grace. I don’t believe in luck or chance of fortune. Some people self-destruct from within by continuing to do the wrong substances or make the wrong choices. If something I do is going to be hurtful to myself or others, I’m going to stop. If I go shop at the Apple store I’m gonna say, “No, I’m going to put that one down and find another one. I’m going to upgrade my software with something more illuminating.”