AZ Groups & DJs

Groups & DJs - Phoenix, Arizona

XS BAND has emerged as one of the hottest Latin (Tejano) - Funk - R & B - show bands of the millennium. Latin (Tejano) rhythms, hot dance grooves, soulful ballads, and High-Energy choreographed stage shows, has made the “XS Band” the most entertaining musical group of today. XS BAND, a Latin American musical powerhouse is a self-contained group which includes family members and founders Ben & Orlando Rodriguez and Bob & Christina Islas and Michael Cano!

Based out of Phoenix Arizona, the family members started their own band and would perform at school talent shows, school dances, fundraisers, fiestas, weddings, night clubs and eventually became established musicians to open for such acts as Patsy Torres, Little Joe y La Family, Albert Zamora, and performed Phoenix’s biggest Tejano Music event 2007 with the legendary Ruben Ramos as his back up band - just to name a few! ... and were seen performing on Arizona’s Channel 3 News Morning Show. Their debut CD entitled, “The Next Step”, has many original compilations as well as tasteful remakes of classic songs. Don’t miss the excitement of XS BAND’s live stage show. It’s non-stop energy that will have you singing and dancing all night long. THE XS BAND MEMBERS: Michael Cano, Drums (Groove Regulator), Orlando Rodriguez, Bass (The Bassman), Christina Islas, Acordeon, Keyboard, Vocal (La Reina de Acordeon), Bob Islas, Keyboard, Acordeon, Vocal (Mr. Las Vegas), Ben Rodriguez, Guitar, Vocal (Mr. Blues Brother)

NEW IMAGE   Hello, my name is RJ Delgadillo, I'm the drummer for New Image .. This High Energy Band is put together be 7 well experienced musicians. We have a diverse sound that enables us to play for any engagement. So, if dancing to good music and enjoying good company is what your looking for?, check out NEW IMAGE! For bookings contact: Ray Delgadillo (480)353-7096, or NewImageaz@aol.com www.myspace.com/newimagesound

DEVOTION

My Name is Joe Cano, I manage the group and also play the guitar/vocals ... we've been playing here in the valley since 1974 and my group Devotion is here to provide music for any occasion. We play variety from tejano, old school, funk, and even country! I can be reached at 602.434.8119 ... to see our new 2008 schedule and hear the group, just log in to MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/devotionband

Reality Band Saturdays exclusively reserved for clubs and private parties, special events, fiestas, etc. Come on and party with the group on any given weekend! You can contact Tony Orona with an email to realityband4u@yahoo.com Web sites: REALITY BAND! Reality Band - MySpace

Str8Up Band   Str8Up Band is a versatile Dance Band that can play all styles of music and will cater to any event. We can cover R&B/Funk/Old Skool, Tejano, Top40, Salsa, Rock En Espanol, and even Alternative music. Check out our Web site and our calendar for show times. For your next music engagement or entertainment needs, do contact Mary at 623-878-9113, or send her an email at mary.garcia@cox.net Better yet, visit the band's Web site for further updates at Str8Up - MySpace www.str8upband.com Danny Brown - MySpace

POWER DRIVE

Rudy states, "We are an 11-piece band that have come together to provide entertainment in a Bi-lingual and Bi-cultural format. The band’s ethnic background is comprised of United States born Americans of Mexican heritage that have had their musical experience formulated equally by Contemporary Pop Music and Latin Music. We are capable of playing a Light Latin Cumbia and quickly changing modes to a strong Salsa beat; then slowing down the beat to a romantic Latin Bolero; and then taking you back in time and playing some Rhythm & Blues/Oldies; and then get you going with some Santana selections; and then keep you moving to some good Tex-Mex that will keep you entertained throughout the night! POWER DRIVE BAND at 480.834.8424 or Cell 602.487.6119; My email address is powerdriveband@cox.net, our address to MySpace is www.myspace.com/powerdrive

LA FAMILIA BAND What's up!! This is little Ray of "La Familia Band" from Avondale, AZ. We are one of the most respected tejano bands around in Phoenix. Our band is formed by several guys. I'm on the drums, I am 14; my dad plays guitar; my tio is the singer; Efrain on the boards; Rick on the sax; Galdino aka "monkey" on the bass; and Emilano is the sound guy. I want to get us on this site along with our good friends "PowerDrive", so more people can get to know about us. Contact the one and only "Little Ray" by sending an email to morona@cox.net ,or call Roy Orona at 623-907-1409, or 480-650-1208, 480.704.0747 gatosuave5@yahoo.com Web site at www.lafamiliaband.com La Familia Band - MySpace

Cascabel ... the Latin Trio that is currently packing clubs all over Arizona, and soon to be touring to spread the Cascabel sounds. Headed up by Miguel Melgoza, this trio brings more than just a live show ... they bring the ambiance of rhythmic Latin arrangements that are sure to pack any dance floor. For booking info, contact Miguel @ 602-620-2540.

SINGERS

LIZZ   Lizz has had an extensive background in music, radio and theater. She has lent her vocal and instrumental talents to many a band recording as well as performed live with several rock and country bands in Arizona. The release of her much awaited Latin single, "Mujer Liberada", produced by Ealisaid Entertainment on the Baby Cat Records Indie Label in 1997, received radio air play on the KLOV Latin Radio Station in Los Angeles, CA. Most recently she has been seen performing in various musical theater productions. Currently, Lizz is recording a new Jazz/Blues/Latin CD album that is currently in production status, and scheduled for release late in 2006. See the performance schedule at http://www.ealisaid.com for dates and times of live appearances in both music and theater venues, and stop by for a visit! Contacts: Elizabeth Reeves, email at infodesk@ealisaid.com , Voicemail and FAX can be sent to 206-339-4865, and 206-332-4865. Music: R&B, Oldies, Jazz, Latin, and Tejano. Visit here also http://www.myspace.com/lizz

Promoters

Lunadisc Entertainment Group If you would like to contact us, simply send a letter to us or call us on our toll free number. Lunadisc Entertainment Group LLC, P.O. Box 12410, Glendale, AZ 85318 2410, 1-888-586-2776 or 602-309-5527. Our Web site can be seen at http://www.legpromotions.com LEG Promotions also offers DJ services through this site: http://www.lunadiscdjs.com How can we do all this? Because we're Professional and dedicate ourselves to our clients. We listen to our clients. We realize your time is important and that budgets can be fixed. We focus on our customer service. From the time you first contact us until the last guest has left your event, you can be sure we are here 24/7 to answer your questions and confer with you on making your occasion something to be proud of. This is our "Day One" Philosophy. We are constantly improving our presentation and service skills to better serve you.

Producers

Mr88K Productions For me, nothing better than spending hours on end in studios, whether it's Contemporary Jazz, Salsa, R&B, Hip-Hop, New Age, Club, Latin, and creating tracks that move not only the CLUBS, but "easy music" listeners as well. Knowing that other artists & groups request my talents to write or arrange or simply drop some keys on a track, is more than a sense of accomplishment ... it's part of my journey that I love. Email gc@mr88k.net, http://www.mr88k.net Phoenix, AZ.

Conjuntos

UNSTOPPABLE    A new tejano group has joined the Arizona Music Source!! Welcome guys!! The group is none other than Unstoppable!! Johnny says, "We try our best and we get a lot of gigs in our hometown. We live in a little town called Guadalupe Arizona. We like our fans, and that's what encourage us to do it and now they love us!!" Here's one comment from a fan in Guadalupe: "I want to promote this group because I think they deserve A chance to shine. Us, the fans in Guadalupe love them and they always make the town come alive!! They're the best band in Guadalupe Arizona, so please give them a chance to shine." The group features the great Johnny Tavena on lead vocals; sqweez-box George Matus; bajosexto Leo Gonzales; on bass Oscar Acedo; and on drums/percussions Amado Martinez. Call Johnny Tavena at his cell 602.478.5062 or send an email to jmtavena@srpnet.com

LOS VALLEY BOYZ We are Los Valley Boyz from Arizona! We play Texas-style Conjunto using Accordion, Bass Guitar, 12-string Bajo Sexto and Drums. A Taste of Texas in Arizona. Los Valley Boyz are Band Leader/Accordion, Joey Avila, Bajo Sexto John Tagle, Vocals Art Aguirre, Bass/2nd Vocals Johnny Avalos, On Drums Oscar Hernandez. Call us for any event. For bookings Call Joey Avila at 602-525-1403 Email is javila5@cox.net

AMBICION

Hi, we are Grupo AMBICION. We are a tejano group based here in the valley. We are known to be one of the top conjuntos in town. The group consist of 5 talented musicians. Ryan (vocals, keys), Rick (vocals, bass), Oscar (drums), Lupe (vocals, bajo), and Sam (squeezebox). We play conjunto style Tex-Mex, cumbias, and country.

You can contact us at grupoambicion@grupoambicion.com www.myspace.com/grupoambicion or call Ryan at 602-653-3042 and/or Rick at 623-570-2077.

Jazz

My son's new smooth jazz band is now available for both corporate and club engagements. Specializing in Smooth Jazz, Classic Jazz, Fusion, R&B/Soul, and Top 40. Contact Gabriel Carmona at 602-531-2593. From Cornerband to BET JAZZ, Gabriel & the 88th Ave Band are now ready to grace the stages in Arizona.

Check out the '88th Ave Band' and bios by visiting their Web site - just click on the picture!

Arizona Groove catches up with Gabriel Carmona! Click HERE to read the complete interview.

JUAN OSKAR   Trumpeter, pianist, vocalist, & writer; Juan Oskar had produced a dance CD "Baile Buffet" that introduced original music and traditional Mexican songs in a modern dance mix. And now his new CD is called, "Jazz, Pizzazz, & Latino". Juan Oskar states, "During my music career I've played with many Latino and none Latin bands since I was 17 years old. In the summer of 2000 I did a 12 country, two month tour of Europe backing several acts." To read more about this extraordinary and amazing artist from Glendale Arizona, go to his site at: http://www.juanoskar.biz/ You can also buy JUAN OSKAR's CDs at La Perla Restaurant, Glendale Ave & 51st Avenue during his intermissions, or by logging in to his site.

DJs

Now offering bartender services!

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G&R Entertainment
G&R ENTERTAINMENT knows how to control the party and ensure EVERYONE is having a GREAT TIME! Why pick G&R ENTERTAINMENT? G&R ENTERTAINMENT plays the classic cuts and the HOTTEST NEW HITS! We have the highest quality sound, service, Lighting and an extremely diverse and large music selection. We've Performed for CITY FIESTAS, WEDDINGS, QUINCEANERAS, CORPORATE EVENTS, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS and PRIVATE PARTIES. WHY DO OUR CUSTOMERS KEEP COMING BACK? CHECK OUT FOR YOURSELF @ G&R Entertainment Gabriel Morales or Robert Starks, Gabe-623.570.7388, Robert-602.435.1658 prodj602@yahoo.com Tejano/Variety

LIMELIGHT Entertainment's hottest DJ, Jeff Kaz!! Give LIMELIGHT a call today! or visit their Web site at www.funparty.com

DJ Ray   HI! MY NAME IS RAY PASTRAN. I'VE BEEN A DJ FOR THE PAST 25 YEARS; STARTED IN CALIFORNIA AND MOVED TO ARIZONA IN '93. I DJ AT LA PERLA IN GLENDALE, AZ AND ALSO AT JACK'S PLACE IN AVONDALE, AZ. Call me at 623.205.0759, FAX at 623.936.1351, or send an email to ROCHOA3@COX.NET
SOLO PRODUCTIONS, "DJ Solo" I am available to quinceaneras and weddings. I live in Arizona and it is hard to get a hold of new good tejano music, and would like to get in a tejano promo music pool or a Web site to download new tejano music. So, if you or someone can help me out I would be very grateful. I also would like to be the first DJ to have new tejano music out here first. Contact Conrad Jaramillo at 623.478.2081 or 602.405.8637, email at sweetnsolo1@yahoo.com
DJ FLEX

Jerry Flex Bowman offers you all three audio requirements: Music, Audio Reproduction, and Entertainment for your total enjoyment and engagements. Call him at 602.995.8674

RAP
MR. BLACKIE Hi, my name is Jhovanie Ramirez, I am 24 years old and I live in Mesa AZ ... I'm a rapper and I go by the stage name {MR. BLACKIE} I rap in Spanish and I would like to perform live as many times possible. I have a CD available thru my webpage http://9plus9records.tripod.com 480-313-6014

Groups and Bands     Tucson, Arizona     Other AZ Cities

XXXpression is an up and coming band from Tucson AZ. With seven members we play some of the best classic Tejano Jams and Originals from Jimmy Edwards to David Lee. Not forgetting all your Old School jams and Country. Band members are Mingo-Band Leader, Sax and Percussions; George-Sax, Congas and Vocals; Steve-Bass Guitar; Dan-Guitar; Danny-Keyboards; Juan-Drums and Vocals: Art-Lead Singer and Accordion. For Contact Info. Mingo 520-982-4555, or Art 480-452-4983 www.myspace.com/xxxpression

NEW LATIN SYMPHONY   My name is Steve Gallegos from Flagstaff Arizona. I just recently released my new CD with our new band NLS, and we are trying to make more connections with other artists and promoters. The new CD is doing exceptionally well within our community!! We currently have a six piece Latin dance band, and I'm the bass player for the group.. We play anything from cumbias, salsa, rancheras to old-school, funk and our original music. For further information on NLS, please write an email to: karynsmxer@aol.com or call me at 928.527.0600, or at 928.779.6083.

DJ Basilio Martinez on the mic folks!!

While in Tucson Arizona tune in to KPYT to listen to Tejano music on Saturdays. They also play oldies, classic rock, old school, and Yaqui music. On Saturdays, hourly shows are aired; Tejano oldies, mariachi, alternative rock, old school, and country.

SANGRE CALIENTE What's going on? This is Rick Mendoza from Sangre Caliente. Check out Sangre's MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/sangrecaliente1 There are new pics and some tunes. Please leave comments anytime you like. Let us know what you would like to see, that is New Pics? Live music? Videos? Take care and hope to see you soon. Contact Rick Mendoza from Sangre Caliente at Mobile 520-971-1682, Home 520-572-8959, e-mail is sangrecaliente1@yahoo.com

Se SALEN Rupert states, "Se SALEN steadily grew popular with local Tejano fans and by the year 2000 Se SALEN was the opening act for many local concerts with big name Tejano Artist from Texas. Se SALEN has opened up for La Differencia, Rodeo, Little Joe y La Familia, Jimmy Gonzalez y Grupo Mazz, Los Garcia Bros, Jay Perez, Grupo Vida, Emilio, Ruben Ramos, Ramon Ayala y sus Bravos Del Norte, Shelly Lares, and lately none other than Adalberto and the Latin Breed!" Strong musicians and excellent vocals, fuel Se SALEN performances. Call Rupert Pacheco at 520-409-5801, or send an email to: sesalenent@yahoo.com This excellent group now has a new Web site at: www.sesalenentertainment.com

Mesquite Band   Mesquite has made some personnel changes, but continues to perform Tex-Mex, tejano, oldies and some c&w. music throughout southern Arizona and New Mexico. We look forward to any and all opportunities, and are willing to travel, to provide you with OUR style of music. We are currently a five piece group based in Tucson, Arizona. Current group members have a combined 80+ years of musical experience. Mesquite Band, Luis P. Canez Jr., luis2935@hotmail.com , cell 520-869-4720 Home 520-883-8374.

RITMO TEJANO This group was formed in the year 2000 and is a rising group in the Tejano Music industry. The Tucson-based band offers Tejano music with a little Latin variety, funk, country, and oldies. Through the combination of musical talent, ambition, dedication, and experience, Ritmo Tejano is off to a promising start! All of the members together bring the audience a unique sound that will tug at your heart and bring you to your feet! Ritmo Tejano can be heard at local clubs in Tucson, and are also available for Weddings, Quinceaneras, Private Parties, and Concerts. Through continued hard work, Ritmo Tejano will become a recognized name by every Tejano fan! Call Danny Corral at (520) 245-1556, or e-mail the group at ritmotejano@hotmail.com They also have a new MySpace URL at http://www.myspace.com/ritmotejano

RELENTE
There is a new group in Tucson called, "Relente". They are a new and upcoming band with good tejano music. Maybe you can list them in the Tucson area on your Web page. Here is the info on the group and the business card is attached. Jerry Martinez is the person to contact for more information on this group, at 520-409-3798.

Alena Chavez - “La Cantadora”

Alena is from Flagstaff Arizona and 'lives' for performing. She sings tejano, norteno, cumbias, rancheras, some R&B! ... doing this on 'Private events and bailes' as well County fairs. Alena is currently working on her debut album, “Por Mi Amigo”, dedicated to her dear friend Lorenzo who passed away in March of 2006. The album will include such genres as Hip Hop, R&B, Rancheras, Norteno, Tejano, and some Cumbias. It’s a very diverse album and is sure to go far! Be looking out for it. If you are interested in hearing some of the songs on the CD please log on to www.myspace.com/rosealena Leave a comment to tell us what you think. Booking info, Address: 3814 E Summer Run, Flagstaff, AZ 86004. Home phone: 928-526-8270 or cell phone, 928-225-9789. Contact Names: Cathy, Dennis or Alena.

Promoters
D.A.D. PROMOTIONS Specializing in promoting your event, "Cradle To Grave", which includes boxing, wrestling, concerts, etc. Also radio, television, and even print! Contact Dan Rodarte Sr., Dan Rodarte Jr., Tim Rodarte, or Richard Encinas for your next upcoming event. Their phone numbers are 520.798.3233, 520.730.9959, or their pager at 520.557.1147. Based in Tucson, Arizona.

Clubs
WILDCAT HOUSE   Where do you go for the hottest tejano hits in Tucson AZ? It's at the "Wildcat House" home to the All New Tejano Saturday Nights, on Stone & Lester! Join the Golden Boy as he spins Tucson's hottest Tejano hits! Tejano 1600 and the Street Team are there live from 8 to 11 PM with lots of Tejano music giveaways and more! Don't miss out on the biggest Tejano Bash in Tucson, at the Wildcat House this Saturday night!

DJ's

TWILIGHT PRODUCTIONS   The latest DJ to hit this page ladies and gentlemen, is none other than DJ Basilio Martinez from Tucson AZ!! According to his email, he states, "My interest is tejano, norteno, old school, and a little bit of country. My CD and record collection includes oldies, top 40, and R and B. A mixture of all the above PLUS more categories if needed. I play at weddings, birthdays, baptisms, graduations, and just about any parties that require music. I am also open to doing clubs gigs if the opportunity knocks at my door." Basilio Martinez can be reached at 520.908.3039, or at his pager 520.712.8004; better yet, send him an email at: chinoaz2002@yahoo.com Tucson, AZ (Basilio is on the left with TJ.)

Rick Rock ... presents TEJANOBEAT Radio on live 365.com for all who enjoys Tejano - Conjunto - Cumbias ... log onto www.live365.com/stations/rickrockm1 Also proving Tejano & various dance music for your special events, private, and all public events. NOW SERVING BOTH TUCSON & THE PHOENIX AREA. Proving you with a high energy DJ and light show. Web site at tejanobeataz.com Call 520.360.4011 for booking information.

Tex-Mex
Los Consentidos Del Norte   A Mexican band with lots of energy and looking/wanting to make a living in the music business. We play cumbias, rancheras, corridos, polkas, etc. Call Martin Alcoverde at 520.481.7038 or 520.304.3592; Martin also has a FAX number at 520.807.7955; you can also send an email at consentidos@univision.com

Salsa

Mariachi

Orquesta SALSARENGUE   Salsa y merengue por todo lo alto; lo mejor de la musica latina; para todas occaciones. For booking information contact Tony Thomas 520.977.6794, or Luis Alberto 520.245.9359, emails can also be sent to adalberto520@aol.com

Need a real-top-of-the-line mariachi? Excellent singers too? Well, I heard this mariachi in Tucson having dinner with my wife, and I was totally captivated by their talent and selection of Mexican songs!!...and very talented young musicians! I'm thinking of using them for one recording here in Phoenix; we'll see. (Area Code is 520)

NEW BIZ CARDS

Groups

Jazz

Musicians

Music Stores

Promoters

DJs

DJ Ray HI! MY NAME IS RAY PASTRAN. I'VE BEEN A DJ FOR THE PAST 25 YEARS; STARTED IN CALIFORNIA AND MOVED TO ARIZONA IN '93. I DJ AT LA PERLA IN GLENDALE, AZ AND ALSO AT JACK'S PLACE IN AVONDALE, AZ. Call me at 623.205.0759, FAX at 623.936.1351, or send an email to ROCHOA3@COX.NET

DJ Solo I am available to quinceaneras and weddings. I live in Arizona and it is hard to get a hold of new good tejano music, and would like to get in a tejano promo music pool or a Web site to download new tejano music. So, if you or someone can help me out I would be very grateful. I also would like to be the first DJ to have new tejano music out here first. Contact Conrad Jaramillo at 623.478.2081 or 602.405.8637, email at sweetnsolo1@yahoo.com

Arizona Music Archives

TEJANOmike, I am sending you a couple of pictures of my dad, Gilbert Mora, who was the first Veteran, Mexican-American, Chicano, Hispanic, whatever, piano player, and musician in Phoenix in the 1930s & 40s to be on the radio at KPHO. My two brothers Gilbert and Joe are still at KPHO TV5 over thirty years. Thanks, Steve Mora.

The first story to be added is none other than the, "Orona Family" ... for some time now, TEJANOmike and Teresa have been talking many times over the phone and including emails back and forth to complete this first great story of a family that has been playing here locally for many years. It is not easy to sit down and write a chronological music history without involving many family members coming together again, and to assist in the completion of such a project, or perhaps share stories of this magnitude. "To share it with all of you is even more commendable on their part." For doing all these things, I would like to thank Teresa Orona for all her hard work on this family project that must of brought many family memories and going beyond on her part to make it all possible and complete for all of us. Ladies and gentlemen, let us welcome the Orona Family to our Arizona Groups link:

Gilberto - Joe Orona - Matias Orona

Many people recognize the familia Orona, but many ask who are they?. The question, “Who are they”, can be split in many ways. A brief description could say, a family known for their talent of music ... or a family known for their hard farm work throughout the states of Texas, New Mexico, California, and Arizona. But realistically, they are a family known of both worlds … music and hard field work labor. The Orona family is originally from Pecos, Texas. They traveled through the states of New Mexico, California and Arizona to earn there living by working in the fields either picking cotton, working in the pisca, and other fruits and vegetation crops.

Gilbert - Matias - Jose - Ramon Jr.

Within these travels, Matias Orona being the 2^nd son of Eusebio and Modesta Orona found interest in music. Matias interest was first found when his older brother Ramon was issued a guitar to learn music. Matias along with his brothers began to play music for family gathering in Pecos, in Roswell and El Vallijo, New Mexico. In 1954, the Orona family came to the great state of Arizona. Their first stop was in Chandler, Arizona. Not only did the family bring their hard labor to this state, they also brought their talent and love of music. A gentleman from Chandler booked the Orona’s to play their first “gig” at a family dance hall called “El Savaco” in Chandler. From that point on not only did they play in Chandler, they also performed in Sacaton, Queen Creek, and Casa Grande.

In those days performing in the band were Matias Orona, Gilberto Orona, Eusebio Orona, and a friend of the family by the name of Manuel Galindo. In 1961, the Orona’s were residents in a town by the name of Tolleson. In this year, Jose Orona learned to play the accordion. His first “solo” gig was to play for a couple of gentleman’s into which his earnings were $23.00 that night. While Jose was playing alone, his father and brothers were playing at another event into which there earnings that night was $27.00 … Keep in mind that dollar figure was lots of money! 1962 was the year that the Orona’s had left their name marked in everyone’s heart. With the guapangos, boleros, cumbias, and corridos performed by the Orona brothers is what made them the talk of the town. Performing at Los Compadres (Tolleson, AZ), Calderon, Emmas’ Ballroom, La Cita, Big 7, Lucero’s Ballroom (Eloy), and the Riverside hall was also a success for them.

To all who recognize the name of Esteban Jordan … yes indeed he was also a part of the Orona’s era … Esteban Jordan sold a Macias bajosexto to Gilberto Orona. Eugenio Curiel from the group Los Atomicos assisted Gilbert on learning the bajosexto. By this time members of “Los Orona’s” were: Matias Orona on Bass/vocals, Ramon Orona Sr. on drums, Gilberto Orona/vocals on Bajo Sexto, and Jose Orona on Accordion/vocals. Within this time of playing, like any other group goes through there were changes in the band … Ramon Orona Sr. was no longer playing with the group. The Orona’s changed drummers for a period of time. Adan Lomas (Conjunto Bernal) played for the Orona’s, and a great friend of the Orona’s being Joe Cano was also a drummer for them. But like an old familiar saying, “The apple never falls too far from the tree” … Another Orona is born with the talent of music.

Around the year of 1965 Ramon Orona Jr. (Currently with La Familia Band) son of Ramon Orona Sr. was introduced to the music. In this year, Ramon Jr. is now the drummer for the Orona’s. Not only was there a change in talent but there was also a change in the group name. The new name for “Los Orona’s” was now, “Los Orientales de Jose Orona”. Having such talent within the family was easy for any one born into the Orona family - and to learn the love of music. Ramon Jr. was not only playing drums, he was also a vocalist for the group singing solos, and also assisting his uncle Jose singing the 2^nd voice, harmonizing, and so forth. Ramon Jr. was introduced to new instruments being the saxophone and bass guitar, while another family member was brought into the show to take over the drums. As years went by, the Orona’s decided to record their first 45 albums. Title of the album was Jose Orona Y los Orientales. Two tracks were recorded on a reel-to-reel recorder in the back yard of the home of Gilbert ; then taken to the owner back in 1969 of El Pajarito to label there album. The two songs recorded were: “Ojitos Negro”, sung by Jose and Ramon Orona Jr. and the 2^nd song was, “Horias de Una Laguna”, sung by Jose and Gilberto Orona by the request of there father Eusebio.

In 1969 there was some slight changes to the group. Matias had no longer been playing bass guitar for the group. Ramon Jr. was now the group’s bass player. Gilberto’s son Freddie Orona (Currently with CALIFAS Band) was introduced to the Orona’s love of music. He was now the new drummer for “Los Orientales”. Only two of the Orona brothers remained performing. They were Jose and Gilberto Orona. With their talent and their voices they still had the hearts and attention of their audience. They performed live on radio remotes. They had performed on local TV, the Channel 5 station. There was nothing holding this family back on sharing their talent and love for music. 1972 the synthesizer (keyboards) was introduced to the Orona's. Freddie finding interest to the keyboards is what had another Orona member come into the group. Ramon Orona Sr. 2^nd son, Roy Orona (Currently with La Familia) was now the drummer for the group while Freddie was in process of learning the keyboards. Years past and the talent in the Orona family only got much stronger.

Joe Cano - Matias - Jose - Gilberto ... [A special thanks to Chuck Wetzel for enhancing this photo]

In 1978, the Orona’s changed the band name once again. The band name was now, “La Familia Orona”. Members of the band were: Jose Orona - accordion/vocals, Gilbert Orona - bajosexto/vocals, Freddie Orona - keyboards, Ramon Orona Jr. - bass/vocals, and Roy Orona on drums. Keep in mind this is Jose and Gilberto’s 2^nd generation of musical talent. In the late 70’s early 80’s Gilberto Orona retired from music. As a replacement, various guitar players were performing with the Orona’s at the time. Not too long then, Jose Orona retires from music as well. With those years, “La Familia Band”, was taken over by the nephews of Gilberto and Jose Orona. Not only did these two gentlemen leave a paved path for their nephew, but also they had left such great talent for their nephews to continue the success in music for the Orona’s. In the year of 1988, Jose Orona comes back to the music scene with his 3^rd generation of talent. His children: Tony, Esmeralda, and Teresa Orona were introduced to the music scene along with their uncle, Gilberto Orona.

The name of this band was, “Jose Orona Y la Ultima Generacion”. The purpose of the title of the band was because Jose stated, “this was the last group of Orona’s that he would share and teach his talent of music." Along side of him was once again his brother Gilberto. You were guaranteed that wherever Jose and Gilberto were, success in the music world would be granted. Jose once again was on Accordion/vocals, Gilberto on bajosexto/vocals, Tony Orona - keyboards, Esmeralda Orona-bass/vocals, and Teresa Orona - drums/vocals. In a matter of 21days, 8 hours a day of practicing, Jose made it a point to show that his kids had also become the musician that he had inspired them to be. Jose experienced the laughter, the tears, but most of all the excitement that his kids experienced throughout there time of learning music. In the Orona Family only two Orona females learned and shared their talent and love of music. They are Esmeralda and Teresa Orona. By this time you had two bands in the Orona’s bringing Tejano/Conjunto music to the state of Arizona. Various clubs such as the Tropicana, American Legion Post 41, and La Perla were venues that booked these two groups.

As mentioned before changes were made in both bands … “La Familia Band” had split up, and Jose Orona Y La Ultima Generacion had changed their name to, “Generation band”. The Generation Band had the same musicians on board. By now, the Generation Band had put their name on the map in Arizona which included being the opening act for such groups as: La Differenzia, Ruben Ramos and The Texas Revolution, Little Joe Y la Familia, Jay Perez, Rodeo, Ram Herrera and The Out Law Band, Banda MR7, and other well known artists and groups. In 1998 Joe Orona took his children to Sound Tech Studio to create their first CD entitled, “Nuestro Sueno”. In that CD eight out of ten songs were written by Joe and Esmeralda with Tony Orona composing and producing the music for the CD. The Orona’s have had their share of experience in the music industry. Many talented musicians right here in the Valley of the Sun have started as well and have shared their talent amongst the side of the Orona’s. On that same note, from the mid-70’s to the early years of 2000’s there have been different band names in the Orona’s. From Orgullo Chicano, Unity 6, La Fuerza, La Familia Band, Conexion and Reality Band.

Many challenges have crossed the music path and ways of the Orona’s. They now have experience; lost musicians (Ramon Orona Sr.). They also have experienced the retirement of what were the original beginnings of Orona history, and the continuous support of Jose and Gilbert Orona. Many of the Orona’s that currently perform in the family give thanks, love, but most of all “RESPECT” to these two gentlemen that took their time to show and support the talent that their kids and nephews have provided to the wonderful people of Arizona. Overwhelmingly, the Orona’s have to give plenty of, “thank you’s and love” to the large audiences that have opened up their hearts and ears to their music. Playing at family festivities, club venues, benefits, fiestas, funerals … only underlines our public trust and love for all of you, and the sounds that the Orona’s provide to the public.

'Little Ray' Orona III

We say Thank you and God Bless!

What is currently going on with the Orona’s today in the year 2008? Currently, Tony Orona took over the Generation band and changed the name to Reality Band as his father retired from the music scene. Tony Orona was able to complete a CD titled, “Me, Myself, and I”. Esmeralda, Teresa, and Tony Orona still represent the Orona’s. Ramon Jr. extended his talent to his only son, “Little Ray”, who is the drummer for ‘La Familia Band’ alongside his brother Roy Orona. ‘Little Ray’ has shown interest of not only playing drums, but also other instruments, as well as finding the interest in recording music. These guys are also representing the Orona family talent to the public … you also have Freddie Orona, keyboard player for the ‘Califas Band’ sharing his love and talent of music for the Orona family. Freddie was the leader of the band called, ‘Conexion’, back in 1992.

With the support that the public demonstrates and gives to the Orona’s, words could not say enough!, but one thing is certain that with the talent that has been instilled in each of these musicians, they perform with their hearts in their hands to the public. They are grateful for the venues that contact them but nonetheless, they are grateful for the talent that has been bestowed upon them from past generations. Thanks primarily to God and to these wonderful men: Eusebio Orona (Grandfather/father), Jose, Gilberto, Ramon Sr, Matias (Father/Uncle) who instilled the faith, the trust, and their talent that we as the younger generation of the Orona’s have been Blessed with. Within this biography, you will experience the musical life of the Orona’s through pictures and musical sounds that the Orona’s have paved throughout the years. We, “Thank you ALL”, for taking the time to be part of our lives, for your continuous support throughout these years, but most of all, for the LOVE and excitement you all bring to the atmosphere wherever the Orona’s perform!

This bio was written by Teresa Orona in behalf of: Eusebio Orona, Ramon Orona Sr., Matias Orona, Gilberto Orona, Jose Orona, Ramon Orona Jr. - Son of Ramon Orona Sr., Freddie Orona - Son of Gilberto Orona, Roy Orona - Son of Ramon Orona Sr., Tony Orona - Son of Jose Orona, Esmeralda Orona Tagle - Daughter of Jose Orona, Teresa Orona - Daughter of Jose Orona, 'Little Ray' Orona III - Son of Ramon Orona Jr.

All names on this Orona Photo Gallery start from the left, unless otherwise stated, 'From R'