Christmas arrives with a touch of humor, festive energy, and irresistible salsa rhythms in “Huelga de Navidad,” the latest holiday release by Puerto Rican composer and producer Eduardo Zayas and EZ La Banda, featuring vocalist Yani Mercedes.
Released on October 13, 2026, this lively production brings together the spirit of Puerto Rican Christmas celebrations with a powerful salsa arrangement, playful storytelling, and the unmistakable sound of traditional Caribbean instrumentation.
The musical arrangement by Kevin Figueroa features the distinctive sound of the Puerto Rican cuatro, performed by Josean Feliberty, adding an authentic touch of Puerto Rican musical heritage to the recording.
Eduardo Zayas – Composer and Musical Producer
Originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico, Eduardo Zayas grew up in Juana Díaz, where his passion for music, poetry, and songwriting began to take shape.
A composer and producer with a long-standing dedication to Latin music, Zayas has developed several musical projects and productions, including Nacido Entre Titanes (2019), Huerta de Soneros (2021), Más Zayas Que Pesca’o (2023), and Salsa Con Perfume de Mujer (2025).
Through EZ La Banda, he brings together talented musicians and vocalists to explore the richness of salsa and Caribbean musical traditions.
Yani Mercedes – Guest Vocalist
Joining Eduardo Zayas and EZ La Banda is Puerto Rican singer Yani Mercedes, whose musical background includes performances as a backing vocalist and collaborations with established figures in Latin music.
She participated in the production Los Cocorocos and Tego Calderón’s album El Que Sabe, Sabe, before presenting her solo album Dando Cara.
Inspired by legendary voices such as Celia Cruz, La Lupe, La India, and Choco Orta, Mercedes brings her own expressive style and Caribbean musical roots to this festive recording.
A Festive Salsa Production
“ Huelga de Navidad” brings together a talented group of musicians:
Yani Mercedes – Lead vocals
Josean Feliberty – Puerto Rican cuatro
Yoandy Vera – Trumpets
Joseph Offner – Trombones
Carlos López – Baritone saxophone
Kevin Pagán – Bass
Yassel Pupo-Alfonso – Piano
Javier “Tito” Furia – Percussion
Tony Alcea and Cienna Alida – Backing vocals
Musical Credits:
Composer and Producer: Eduardo Zayas
Musical Arrangements: Kevin Figueroa
Recording, Mixing, and Mastering: Eric Maldonado
With its playful Christmas theme, vibrant brass arrangements, infectious percussion, and the distinctive sound of the Puerto Rican cuatro, “Huelga de Navidad” offers a joyful musical celebration rooted in Puerto Rican culture.
A festive salsa release filled with humor, Caribbean flavor, and the unmistakable spirit of a Puerto Rican Christmas!