RISHON LE ZION, ISRAEL — In the vibrant city of Rishon Le Zion, Israel, the echoes of Latin rhythms find their resonance in the remarkable journey of D.J. Ronen (Paco) Biran. Born just a 15-minute drive from the bustling heart of Tel-Aviv, DJ Paco’s trajectory has been a harmonious symphony that has left an indelible mark not only in Israel but also on the international stage.
From humble beginnings, the young talent embarked on a musical expedition that began as he played tunes at parties for friends during his formative years. It was a prelude to a career that would unfurl with brilliance and vibrancy.
The year 1993 marked a pivotal turning point as DJ Paco made his foray into the professional music scene as a salsa DJ. Coinciding with this entry, he clinched the first-place title in the inaugural Israeli national salsa competition—an extraordinary feat that solidified his stature as one of Israel’s premier Salseros. This dual triumph, as both a dancer and a DJ, was a testament to his exceptional skill and passion.
A Beacon of Latin Music
The heart of DJ Paco’s mission has always been to propagate the captivating allure of Latin music and dance, transcending geographical boundaries to reach enthusiasts across the world. A vital member of the original Salsaweb magazine team, he served as the world cityguide administrator—a role that catapulted him to international recognition. His work garnered admiration and commendation for his dedication in promoting the rich cultural tapestry of salsa.
His presence has reverberated through Israel’s most prominent Latin clubs and events. Venues like Club Purto Loco, the illustrious Club Maxim, Salsa Carlos, Club Focus, and Club Bailatino became stages where his artistry painted mesmerizing sonic landscapes. His profound understanding of Latin rhythms and his innate ability to connect with the audience set him apart as a maestro of his craft.
A Global Sensation
The resonance of DJ Paco’s rhythms crossed continents and oceans. Invitations from around the world beckoned him to prestigious Latin events, congresses, and conventions. From the SalsaWeb convention in Toronto, Canada, to the opening of the first salsa club in Jordan, his presence brought the magic of Latin music to diverse audiences. He left an indelible mark as the warm-up DJ for none other than Marc Anthony at the Todo Latino salsa festival in Athens—an accolade that underscored his global influence.
Architect of Celebratory Experiences
As a visionary, DJ Paco’s contribution extended beyond his mesmerizing performances. He played a pivotal role as the co-producer and director of the annual Israeli salsa congress held from 2001 to 2004—a melting pot of salsa enthusiasts from around the globe. The narrative continued as he assumed the mantle of the artistic director of “Fiesta,” the largest Latin Festival in the Middle East. With over 60,000 participants in 2005 and 2006, the festival became a platform for celebrating the vibrancy of Latin culture.
Online Advocacy and Educational Pioneer
D.J. Ronen (Paco) Biran’s passion extended into the digital realm. In his fervent endeavor to promote salsa in Israel, he founded http://www.salsa.org.il, the largest salsa website in Hebrew. As its editor, he cultivated an online haven for salsa enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and a platform for learning.
Biran’s dedication also encompassed education and nurturing emerging talent. He managed two of the largest salsa schools in Israel, “Club Focus” and “Bailatino,” guiding a team of 20 instructors and over 750 students each week. His role as a freelance DJ and manager of dance instructors and salsa teams added depth to his commitment.
An Evolution in Music: The Bachata Sensation
In recent years, DJ Paco’s journey embraced a new dimension as he emerged as the leading Bachata Sensual DJ in Israel. With a dedicated following of over 800 dancers every Saturday, he brought forth a fresh wave of musical expression that resonated with audiences on an emotional level.
Resident DJ and Broadcasting Virtuoso
Presently, DJ Paco commands the stage as the resident DJ of “Havana Music Club,” the largest Latin Music Club in Israel. Enthusiasts converge to witness his electrifying performances, fusing the allure of Salsa and Bachata on various club nights. Beyond the club scene, he extends his influence as an official DJ of Bachata Sensual Radio, reaching a global audience with his captivating sets.
A Living Legend in Latin Rhythms
D.J. Ronen (Paco) Biran’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of music. An icon who has placed Israel on the map of global Latin music, his legacy is woven into the fabric of international celebrations of culture and rhythm. With a career spanning decades, he stands as a living legend in the realm of Latin music—a maestro whose beats continue to reverberate across the world.