TEJANOmike
A Tejano Music Website |
602.505.2168 | Austin, TX
Phoenix, AZ |
tejanomike@gmail.com
This biography link will highlight a few artists, musicians, and families from Arizona, Texas, and other states. It is hard to have such a link due the lack of up-to-date bios and resources on the Internet, or permission granted from an artist.
"A lot of the history of Mexican American music is really hard to find", says documentary-film producer, John Valadez, who is using Ramon Hernandez’s archive as a reference for a 2009 TV special called, Latin Music U.S.A. John goes on to say, "A lot of big, mainstream institutions didn’t document this stuff very well. They didn’t care about it and didn’t value it."
Back In Time Music: Carlos Guzman... "Sufriendo Penas"
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Rick Fuentes was born in 1971 in San Jose, California. His Tejano heritage was bred by his South Texas native parents, Ricardo Fuentes of Brownsville, Texas and Irene Navarro of San Benito, Texas.
The musical community of the late 70’s and early 80’s knew the senior Fuentes, “Richard”, as the charismatic leader of a popular national touring Chicano band, “The Brown Express”. Richard played the button accordion and a Farfisa organ, giving the band a style of its own.
Rick recalls going to many of their gigs and assisting his father with “sound checks”. Musically, the young Rick Fuentes was developing his own love for the keyboard, but only played recordings of “The Brown Express”. His father used this to his advantage and had Rick play.
In 1989, at the age of 18, Rick was fortunate to join a band formed by Grammy-nominated accordionist, Chavela Ortíz Hernandez, also known as “La Reina Del Acordión” – “The Accordion Queen”. A native of Fresno, California, she was an ex-member of “The Brown Express”, who had branched out to form her own group.
It was Chavela that bought Rick his first piano accordion and basically directed him to play it. The group, “Chavela Y Su Grupo Express”- “Chavela & The Express” would come to have two accordions and an organ sound just like Richard Fuentes’ original sound with “The Brown Express”. Touring the “Mexican Regional” market all over the United States with Chavela was like a dream come true for Rick and he enjoyed it until another tragedy forced a change in course.
On October 9, 1992, while doing a photo shoot at a ranch in Milpitas, California, a horse that Chavela was being photographed on was startled. As the horse ran from the scene, she fell off and was fatally injured. Devastated for several months after the accident, Rick wasn’t sure if he wanted to continue playing “Mexican Regional” music or follow the music in his heart: “Tejano” – “Tex-Mex”.
In March of 1993, Rick learned that Tejano legend Ruben Ramos was coming out to California and New Mexico for a couple of weeks and that keyboardist/guitarist Joe Ramos was unable to make the trip. Not only did Rick fill in for those shows, he also managed to join “Ruben Ramos and Texas Revolution” and move to Austin, Texas. Once in Texas, Rick soon began doing studio work with various Tejano music icons, such as Gilbert Velasquez, Joel Guzman, Laura Canales, Ram Herrera, Jimmy Gonzales, and others.
In early 1995, he left Austin for McAllen to join “Fandango USA” as keyboardist, accordionist and co-arranger. The band had recently gained popularity with their mega-hit “La Charanga”. Rick contributed to the momentum by co-arranging a CD with them that was later nominated for a Grammy in the “Best Tejano” category.
The group toured all over the U.S. and gave Rick his first international experience by touring in Mexico. The commutes from the Rio Grande Valley to his home and family in Austin became demanding and he soon came to the realization that another transition was on the horizon.
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In November 1996, the doors again opened for Rick and he returned to “The Texas Revolution” and moved back to Austin. Shortly after rejoining the band that year, he had the opportunity to perform at Kadena Air Force Base in Okinawa, Japan.
To Rick, it was like playing back in San Antonio with fans from all over Texas. Since then, he has been able to perform in shows from Denmark to Belgium and Michigan to Hawaii.
The blessings, accomplishments, and honors have continued for the multi-talented Rick Fuentes. In 2001, the “A Class Act” CD was nominated for a Grammy, produced by Rick Himself. He received a Tejano Academy Award for “Best Overall Instrumental of the Year” in 2004 for the hit, “Rixmix” that was on the “On The Prowl” CD, co-produced by Rick.
As his productions and performances continued, the awards kept the pace. In 2006, he was again awarded a Tejano Academy Award for “Best Overall Instrumental of the Year” for “La Resvalada” on the “Reloaded” CD, another album that he produced.
They say that things in life come full circle, and though the Tejano community hasn’t seen the last of Rick Fuentes, he has started to realize that the talents he saw in his father’s hands are in his own today; and Rick remembers his dad's keyboard on stage before performances while he monitored quality and adjusted sound.
Since Richard Fuentes was on active tour with “The Brown Express”, young Rick was forced to stay home with his keyboard. Driven by the incredible feeling of playing on stage with his father’s band, he continued to develop his talents and passion for music, solidifying his aspiration to become a musician.
In 1983, while on tour in Texas, “The Brown Express” suffered a tragic rollover accident, in which Richard Fuentes and another band member were killed. It was a very difficult time for Rick as he struggled with his loss and with the pressure to continue in his father’s footsteps. He questioned his ability and asked himself, “How will I do it?” As his own path developed and his talents unfolded, Rick learned one thing: His father’s death was his strength; He would never leave Rick’s side.
In 1985, while maternal grandparents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, 14 year-old Rick experienced his first public performance. “Grupo 101”, which consisted of local musicians and a few ex-members of “The Brown Express”, was performing at the family reception.
Unaware that Rick had been practicing the keyboard part to one of their recordings for weeks, they invited him to play a song. He confidently accepted the invitation and was overwhelmed with the emotional response from the family and from experiencing “that feeling” again.
Throughout the years that followed, Rick became addicted to the stage and played keyboards, bass, and rhythm guitar in venues throughout the Bay Area. As with many underage musicians, some bars had him wait on the stage or go outside during the breaks. (He couldn’t wait to turn 21!) |
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LariZa was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona ... and from the tender age of five knew singing was her destiny. Her mother was a major influence in LariZa’s life, as she herself sang for church functions and events. At seven years old LariZa started taking piano lessons and quickly learned how to play songs just from hearing them. Even from that early age her parents could feel that she played and sang from the bottom of her heart and soul, and it touched them deeply. It still does to this day. When LariZa became a teen-ager she joined numerous choirs at church and at school. She also played keyboard and was a backup singer for her mom’s Christian band and that is where she really learned how to harmonize and to create dynamics with keyboard/piano and voice.
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In college, her voice professor wanted her to pursue Opera because of the powerhouse her voice had become.
Although flattered, she chose to follow her heart and sing in Spanish. During college, LariZa worked as an office assistant in an auto body shop and it was here that she was “discovered”. |
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Through a radio contest and a live broadcast she auditioned for a chance to become a lead female vocalist for a local band called, “The Hott City Band”. Later that same day, she received a phone call from the group's manager and was invited to their rehearsal. LariZa attended one practice and the rest is history. LariZa performed with The Hott City Band for the next five years. It was through this experience that she learned about stage presence, performance, and using her gift of touching the audience with her voice. The band became a favorite throughout the state of Arizona, and they were privileged to be the opening act for many tejano artists such as Little Joe y La Familia, Stefani Montiel, Emilio, Jay Perez, Shelly Lares, La Sombra, Pete Austudillo, La Diferencia, Bobby Pulido, Ruben Ramos, David Lee Garza, and the list goes on and on.
As an opening act, LariZa also was given the opportunity to perform duets with many of these artists. When LariZa relocated to San Antonio in 1999, she had a hard time getting through in the industry, however she always had her support system at home.Her family kept LariZa encouraged, focused and determined. She kept knocking on doors until her persistence paid off. She was a “Featured Guest Performer” with the popular international mariachi group, “Campanas De America”, and she also was a back-up singer/dancer for David Marez for a brief time. LariZa also sang at numerous events throughout San Antonio and was named “2007 Entertainer of the Year” in a state-wide singing competition.
Through the friendships created years ago ... LariZa has received an overwhelming amount of assistance and encouragement from numerous artists such as The Desperadoz, Sunny Sauceda, David Lee Garza, Ram Hererra, Shelly Lares, Jay Perez, Eddie Gonzalez and Stefani Montiel, along with so many others. Shelly Lares was kind enough to give LariZa the names of a couple of her talented songwriters, and through Ofelia Guerrero LariZa was connected to the infamous Eddie Perez who has arranged and produced various successful projects in the tejano community. In March 2009 Marquise Music offered LariZa her first recording contract and one month later LariZa released her first single called, “En Mi Soledad”. Recently, LariZa and her group, "CoraZon", has performed at the 2009 Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair, “Great Day SA” television show, the 2009 Southwest Airlines Fiesta Event, and LariZa has had numerous radio interviews such as the TTMA Radio Podcast hosted by Bobby Lopez, Que Pasa 99.5 Morning Show with “La Clicka” in McAllen, Texas, BNet Radio located in Houston Texas, and Tejano1600 in Tucson Arizona.
She is currently in the studio working on finishing her highly anticipated CD which is scheduled for a projected summer 2009 release. There is a right time for everything! ... and now is her time to shine. She has surrounded herself with an excellent team of supporters who believe in her and the talent God gave her. She never gave up and is humbled to be able to share her life experiences through her music with people everywhere. Her voice is unique, full of zeal and conviction and connects her with audiences young and old. Her love of Tejano music shines through time and time again and she is blessed to share that love with you. LariZa’s excitement cannot be contained; her dream is finally a reality! |
 From left: Mike Hermosillo on trumpet, Jimmy Burciaga on tenor, my brother Chris on tenor, Steve Jordan singing, and Joe Burciaga on timbales. San Jose CA, December 14, 1968. |
Steve Jordan died
on August 13, 2010. Sad. RIP.
He was a great tejano artist
and musician, and a friend
of the Carmona family.
When an artist of this
magnitude passes away, we
remember them in one way or
another. In my case I was so
lucky and fortunate to have
known him personally, played
music with him in San Jose
California - and as friends,
he even played for our
wedding back in DEC of 1968.
In the early 70s I was playing trumpet with the Rudy Sanchez orchestra, and back then Steve was the lead singer and guitar player. During our many performances and shows I used to look at Steve on center stage performing, and was just amazed at his style of playing, his technique of expression, his own music arrangements and ideas, his enormous talent, and the many things he wanted to do in music. The last time I seen Steve in California was when "Chavela" died, and him and his brothers came to San Jose for her services and funeral; afterwards seen each other at Maria's Club. We talked a little bit inside the club and then told me, "Carmona?, you got to get out of here! California doesn't have nothing, and that's why I moved to Texas! We love it over there!" |
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Tracy Perez ... is a native of Houston Texas;
born and raised. As a child, Tracy's mother would often play
piano at home and one day at the age of four, Tracy wandered
over to the piano and instinctively started singing,
"Somewhere Over The Rainbow", alongside her mom. This is
Tracy's earliest memory of singing as she would continue to
sing alongside her mom throughout her childhood. At the age
of 10, Tracy suffered a near fatal accident where she was
hospitalized for months and required multiple surgeries
throughout her childhood and teenage years. During this tough period in her life, Tracy turned to singing and started to develop her vocals. “Singing has always been an outlet for me not only as a way to express my emotions, but a way of escaping.” During her High School years, Tracy participated in local contests in Houston, which presented the opportunity to perform in Las Vegas in front of thousands of people. She also participated in multiple talent shows in high school. In 1996, Tracy formed company TNT Productions with her business partner Thaddeus Perez and set out to take her talent to the people by performing at local restaurants, clubs and private events while singing to pre-recorded tracks. Tracy then moved into the local band scene in 1998 and after a few stints with a couple of local bands, Tracy joined forces with Houston’s Power House AVIZO in 1999 as lead vocalist. “Being a part of Avizo was such a true honor and great experience. I learned so much working with true veterans of the industry, and it was a privilege being one of the first female vocalists to perform and record with a full horn section in Tejano music.” Tracy’s ability to sing all genres of music including Tejano, R&B, Salsa, Merengue, and Top 40 helped broaden the band’s horizons in early 2000 as they broke in to the Top 40 scene in the Houston market competing in a circuit with some of Houston’s notable bands. That same year Tracy was invited by legendary Tejano producer Bob Gallarza to perform with his All-Star band as back-up vocalist to some of the top Tejano acts at the George R Brown Convention Center in Houston. |
As Tracy and AVIZO continued to take the music scene by storm performing at some of the largest venues in Houston, as well as on the road, the band decided to take things to the next level by returning to the studio to record “The Power of Friends”. This would be Tracy’s first professional recording with the smash hits, “Corazon De Piedra”, and, “Nunca Jamas”, and an original tune, “Eres”. The album featured some of the industry’s top vocalists and musicians, to which Tracy was the only female lead vocalist on the album where she held her own next to industry legends and greats such as Little Joe, Ruben Ramos, Jay Perez, Augustine Ramirez, and David Marez. The album earned the group a Grammy nomination for Best Tejano Album in 2006 at the 48th Annual Grammy Awards. Tracy also received the honor of being nominated as Female Vocalist on the Year, as well as Female Entertainer of the Year, at the Tejano Music Awards that same year, which was the first recognition for Tracy and AVIZO at both award shows. Tracy's single, "Corazon de Piedra", was re-released on Avizo's latest CD where the band recently earned a Latin Grammy Nomination. In 2005, Tracy took a hiatus from the music business while re-evaluating her singing career. With music in her heart and soul, and the warm welcome and support by her fans, Tracy continuously contemplated a return throughout the next few years. In 2009, she rejoined forces with her long-time partner, Thaddeus Perez, and launched TNT Records. Now having full control of the music and business aspects, Tracy has returned to the studio with Multi-Grammy Award winners David DeLaGarza and Tim Ruiz to produce the long anticipated debut solo Tejano album by Tracy Perez due out in 2010. |
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The Orona Family, Phoenix AZ: 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.
Within these travels, Matias Orona being the 2nd 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.
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. |
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Joe Luna Jr., Texas:  |
Joe Luna Jr. was born in 1951 in Dallas,
Texas. From an early age, he loved performing music. He
played guitar and keyboards but his real passion was
singing. The year was 1966 and Tony & The Twilights was the
first organized band that Joe played in at the young age of
15.
Their very first gig was performed at the Peppermint Club in Dallas. A couple of years together and the members disbursed to explore individual avenues. Joe joined Sal De Leon and the Centennials in 1967 and remained a member until the early 70's. The band played at several local venues including the Market Hall, events for Crozier Tech High School, The Grand Hotel, The Adolphus Hotel, and the Hi-Ho Ballroom. They also performed at The Baker Hotel which was located at the SE corner of Commerce and Akard Street in the Heart of Downtown Dallas which is now a skyscraper known as Bell Plaza. The mid to late 70's he played with Gary Guajardo and the GoodTime band and was involved in a few bands with Gary's brother Johnny Guajardo throughout that time period. From 1980-1986 he was the lead singer for the D.A. Band. Nido De Amor the 1982 album released by the D.A. Band.
As their popularity grew, their venues expanded throughout the state of Texas. They were the "go to" band for weddings and "15s" in Dallas at that time. Certain members of the D.A. Band, including Joe, moved on to create another group called The Image Band. They were together for 5 years. Joe Luna's career was cut short by his sudden death in 1991.
He was one month shy of his 40th birthday. His memory lives on through his children, grandchildren, family and many many friends. Joe's grandchildren never had the pleasure of knowing the wonderful person that was their grandfather. Joe's daughter, Lisa is currently working on a project to ensure that Joe's musical history is documented for her son, niece and nephew and future generations.
[ "I would like to thank Paul Martinez/Gizz for sending the picture of Sal De Leon; and that is Paul on bass guitar." ] TEJANOmike |
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For "Tonka", a veteran of the conjunto circuit, quality is first, last and everything. Tonka is a singer songwriter, and arranger who has been involved in conjunto music for more then twenty years and known simply as Tonka, a tag he was given while still a youngster in his hometown of Robstown, Texas. Tonka's early influences read like a who's who in conjunto music. A musician's musician Tonka has more than 50 recordings for different labels under his belt and years of experience playing in the music circuit with groups like Massizo, Los Chachos, Tony De La Rosa, Steve Jordan, Juan Sifuentes and Tonka y Libre. In 1976, while doing vocals for another group, Eloy Bernal approached Tonka and asked him to join El Conjunto Bernal. It was while touring with Bernal that Tonka had the opportunity to study voice under the tutelage of Bernal. To those who recall the glory days of conjunto, Tonka's music has stimulated a nostalgic nerve ... but, something else is happening; younger fans are experiencing the quality that can be achieved with harmony in the hands of a master like Tonka. An active performer Tonka tours with a group of artists who prize professionalism and musicianship.
Candid and honest, Tonka admits he is still influenced by the experiences he realized in the Bernal organization and acknowledges the stylistic connection to Bernal, however, he points out he is much more than a parody of the original. By infusing new techniques and arrangements to his style, he keeps it contemporary and fresh. Tonka continues to experiment with voices; new techniques and arrangements that make his band a reminder of the days when music was taken seriously and fans knew good music when they heard it. In short, Tonka is reintroducing a passion for Tejano and conjunto music that has been absent for many years. Today, Tonka is being rediscovered by a multitude of new fans and his new CD "Pudo Mas Tu Orgullo," will definitely boost his already growing popularity! Hacienda is proud to present Tonka. |
Tonka,
Texas: |
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Rene Serrata was born and raised in Robstown Texas and is a proud cotton picker. He has been singing, writing music, and even arranging since early childhood. As a young boy his first love was none other than the accordion; an instrument that makes up a large part of his own music today. That however is not his only passion, he also plays guitar, bass, and bajosexto. Rene first entered the music business with, "La Carta", featuring Lorenzo Hernandez. Then he went on to play with Niro Martinez followed by Cruz Torres, and of course the legendary Agapito Zuniga.
Rene also played with greats like Bobby Naranjo, Jesse Serrata, Oskar Hernandez, Steve Jordan, Los Chachos, and even with the tejano band, "Tortilla Factory" ... in 1972 Rene recorded his first professional LP, 'Conoscan Los Buenos', which led to major tours all over the United States.
In 1979 Rene recorded another LP this time called, "Como Te Llamas Tu", which gave him overnight fame and stardom! He followed this successful production with, "El Regalo" and "Llegaste A Mi Vida" ... and in 1983 with, "En El Baile" ... to his surprise each one of these LPs was great success. Rene Serrata's first release since 1989, "Tu Vestido Blanco", has rocketed up the charts to become #1 in Texas and Mexico. Rene's music along with him being so successful is also unique in it's words and themes.
In one song he sings 'Ooh Crystal' for his daughter Crystal and in another, 'Do It Ikey', for his son Isaac. One can't help but get the feeling that he is a proud father as well. Rene has been successful and has received numerous awards. From the very first 'Mike Chavez Music Awards' in Corpus Christi Texas, Rene has also been a recipient of, 'Songwriter and Composer of The Year Award' and nominee of The Tejano Music Awards in San Antonio Texas in 85, 86, 87 and 1998.
In 2005, Rene was inducted to the" Tejano Roots Hall of Fame" in Alice TX and in 2006 he was awarded the "Best Group Vocalist" at The Tejano Academy Awards in San Antonio Texas. With his latest CD ready for release in August 2007 which features an "All Star" group of special artists like The Great Joe Revelez -Keyboards, Pete Garza - Drums, Matias Serrata - Bajo Sexto, and back-up vocals, Juan Medrano - Guitar, Rene Lopez - Accordion, Carlos Hinojosa - Accordion, and "Little Brother Frank Serrata", back-up vocals. This CD is titled, Rene Serrata, "Con Todo El Alma", and is as versatile as Rene himself. Be on the lookout for this CD on Hacienda Records.
Thanks to my producer "Rick Garcia", Rene Serrata has definitely acquired his well deserved recognition as a successful 'all around' tejano music artist. Rene Serrata's Web Site: http://www.reneserrata.com |
 Rene Serrata, Texas:   |
A good and kind friend of mine from the American Legion Post 41 here in Phoenix Arizona, Steve Mora, once told me that his dad, Gilbert E. Mora, used to play here in Phoenix many years ago; that he played piano and had a group also. I asked him to send me some pictures if he had any and Steve emailed me these two pictures of his dad. Steve also plays piano himself and is a very versatile musician. |
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Ramon Hernandez, San Antonio Texas: Ailing in a hospital bed in 1999 after his second heart
attack and the quadruple bypass that followed, Tejano singer
Sunny Ozuna was certain his time in this world was up. Best
known for his 1963 hit “Talk to Me,” which he recorded with
his band the Sunglows (later the Sunliners), and for being
the first Tejano musician to perform on Dick Clark’s
American Bandstand
that same year, Ozuna had led a fulfilling life and hoped he
would be remembered when he was gone.
Frail from the surgery, Ozuna didn’t call on family members to be by his bedside. He didn’t ask for a chaplain to read him his last rites. Instead, Ozuna turned to his wife and asked for one final visitor, someone he knew could get his story right. Ozuna asked for Ramon Hernandez. "I wanted my thoughts at that time to be written down," Ozuna said. "I thought the only one that could document that would be Ramon."Over the last 30 years, Hernandez has transformed himself into a human encyclopedia of Latino music knowledge. In the early 1960s, he began collecting literature, periodicals, recordings, photographs, and other memorabilia on Latinos in the music industry, from the crooners of the ’40s to the rock ’n’ rollers of the ’50s to anyone who has ever been associated with Tejano, conjunto, and música ranchera. "Ramon has one of the most extensive music history collections in the world", says Steve Williams, founder of the Museum of American Music History. "There are very few collections that are as detailed as his that will take you from the origins of an artist throughout his entire career in pictures, documents, and mementos."
Housed in his two-bedroom apartment on the city’s southwest
side, Hernandez’s Hispanic Entertainment Archives, an
affiliate of the Texas Music Office and the MAMH, contains
thousands of pieces of music history. Lined against the
walls of his living room, a dozen large file cabinets
contain the lives of Latino musicians from Ritchie Valens to
Randy Garibay to Flaco Jimenez, all uniformly stored in
their own manila folders. Some folders spill over with
clippings, personal notes, and never-before-seen photos,
including a Sammy Davis Jr. file, which barely has enough
room to fit the medallion he gave Hernandez after a concert.
The archives also hold other irreplaceable, offbeat
collectibles: accordionist Steve Jordan’s famous eye
patches, a Selena comic book from Mexico, and a discontinued
jar of Freddy Fender’s King of Tex-Mex Picante Sauce.
The archives extend into Hernandez’s bedrooms, where boxes
of original album collections, posters, and video files make
it hard to maneuver around the cramped space. Hernandez
doesn’t even have a bed. He lays out mats next to his layers
of albums and sleeps next to vintage vinyl. "It’s not a
matter of not having the money to buy a bed," Hernandez
explains. "The truth is that there is no room for any
furniture. As a result, I’ve had no choice but to sleep on
the floor for the last 10 years." His closets, like another
secret vault inside his extensive archive, are overflowing
with performers’ costumes, including a polyester shirt and
tie given to him by the "Father of Tejano Music," Isidro
Lopez; a folklorico dress from the "Queen of Tejano," Lydia
Mendoza; and a Zarape-patterned cummerbund and jacket worn
by
"Little Joe" Hernandez.
I have to say I was shocked and dumbfounded when I
walked into [Ramon’s] apartment and saw everything he had.”
Born and raised in San Antonio, Hernandez, 68, began
compiling music history when he joined the Navy in 1960 and
attended concerts wherever he was stationed. Although he
tried his hand as a musician when he formed Whitie and the
Escorts in 1959, Hernandez soon recognized he didn’t have
the natural talent ("or the good looks") to compete with the
Frankie Avalons and Pat Boones of the time.
"It was the pretty-boy era and I was skinny, narizon
(big-nosed), and full of pimples," Hernandez said. "One day,
one of the guys in the band brought a small reel-to-reel
tape recorder and recorded a session. When I heard myself,
it sounded terrible. So I gave up singing." Hernandez
decided that he was more of a behind-the-curtains guy rather
than a leading man. While stationed in San Diego in 1968, he
landed a gig as a volunteer photographer for
The Lawrence Welk Show
and
The Andy Williams Show,
where he would snap photos of stars such as Jose Feliciano
and Trini Lopez. It was during this time that Hernandez
realized how many Latinos were in the mainstream American
music industry. He was proud to know that Sam the Sham was
Latino, but was disappointed that the majority of people did
not.
"Whenever a group like Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers would come out and sing ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love?,’ they would never say there was a Puerto Rican in the group," Hernandez says. "They never said Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers featuring Herman Santiago. I wanted to educate the people and make it known. So, I became a crusader for Latino musicians." After working as a part-time writer, photographer, and DJ in various parts of the world during his 23-year military career, Hernandez returned to San Antonio in 1983 and began freelancing for local publications and working as a publicist for artists such as Patsy Torres and Selena.
As he continued working, Hernandez’s archive kept growing. Today, like a Latino-music version of the Library of Congress, he allows others with a similar interest to visit the archive for research. He hopes one day his priceless collection can be exhibited in a museum "where one can learn about their musical heritage and the influence of Latinos in the entertainment industry." Until then, he is comfortable being a friend to the musicians he has met and covered over the years and the outlet everyone turns to when memories start fading away. When someone asks me a question about my career, I say, Ask Ramon," Ozuna says. "He knows more about me than I do."
In the early 70’s Marky Lee formed the group
'Lumbre'. During the 70’s Tejano music went into a different
sound with influences of modern R&B artists and so Marky
launched his 'Chicano' style music with the formation of
this band. The band was able to record one album entitled,
'Marky Lee and Lumbre'. Around the 1980’s Marky Lee would
present to the Tejano community another unique performance
with his 'Blues Brothers Show'. The show was a collaboration
of oldies and Tejano music with outstanding performances by
band members! The show became a must-see in the Houston
area. The Tejano Band was able to record three albums: 'The
Eighth Wonder of The World', 'Dios Mio Que No Amanesca', and
'El Tejano'.
During most of 1989 Tejano music scene was changing yet
again, the old style that first made tejano popular, the
more traditional sound we all know as 'Conjunto'. During
this time a very good friend of Marky Lee’s by the name,
'Joe Martinez', was in search of a vocalist to launch his
new band ... 'The Dream Team'. Marky Lee felt honored
to join this very talented musician. He will never forget
and always hold deep in his heart the love that was shown to
him by Mr. Joe Martinez. This is when Marky Lee’s fire was
lit! He enjoyed the conjunto style and became accustomed to
jamming with 'The Accordion Abuser!' An opportunity to carry
on the 'Dream' came about in 1998. Marky‘s appreciation for
the more traditional conjunto style would lead him to start
a very young talented group under the name, 'Grupo
Caliente'. The young band was able to record three CDs under
the meticulous musical ear and leadership that Marky Lee has
developed through the years. The first CD entitled, 'La
Misma Gata', earned Marky Lee and Grupo Caliente a
nomination at the Tejano Music Awards in 2002. The other two
CDs were 'Antojo De Amor' and 'Conjunto Caliente'.
In 1999 Marky Lee not only rose to new levels of his career as a conjunto artist but he was inducted into Tejano Music Association Hall Of Fame. For his hard work and dedication to his craft of entertaining Tejano fans all across the country, he was recognized by his peers with this induction. In 2002 a close friend and colleague by the name of Roman Martinez asked Marky to join Ricki Martinez with backup vocals in their group the 'Hometown Boys'. Marky considered this invitation as an honor and is grateful for the chance to work with one of the most talented families in Tejano music.
Marky toured with the family for six years and has so much love for the time he was able to grow as an artist and enjoyed the experience of working with the talented family. While touring with The Hometown Boys, Marky Lee did make it to the studio from time to time working on personal projects and was able to produce a demo CD entitled 'El Rebelde' which was received with much airplay throughout Texas.In 2008 Marky has decided after much thought and consideration to move forward with a promising future of making his unique style a part of Tejano Music as we know it today. Marky known for his electric and charismatic stage presence is looking forward to a more awarding future. Along with his stage presence and Marky is sure to give you a show you won’t forget.
The future for Tejano music is promising, and Marky Lee feels that it is time to take his career to a higher level! Collaborating with two very talented musicians: Stevan Martinez, Johnny Hernandez - all three have come together to present H Tres! Stevan Martinez widely known as the accordionist of all accordionist brings his very passionate sound to the group. Johnny Hernandez an outstanding percussionist and backup vocals pumps the crowd up for gritos! And, of course Marky Lee’s electric stage dancing and powerful voice speaks for itself. The group has come together to collaborate music with a unique sound and keeping with the traditional sounds of the tejano culture. |
     Jessica Sanchez
Juan Medrano, Texas.
Juan Medrano was
born and raised in
Juan’s interest in the guitar was natural as all his five brothers played the instrument. One of his brothers, Enrique, who played with a local rock and roll band played a key role in
Juan’s
musical development by providing guitar lessons and
encouragement. Another brother, Genaro, supported Juan by
buying his first professional guitar. Juan’s initial entry
into the music business involved playing with local rock and
blues bands in night clubs around the
Juan developed as a lead guitar player influenced by Eric Clapton, Santana, BB King, Freddy King and other guitar greats heard on the radio. Juan’s transition to Tejano music took place in the early seventies when he played in a band with Beto Martinez, Bobby Naranjo and Rene Serrata.
Juan has been playing Tejano music ever since, but still retains the rock/blues soul feel which he incorporates into his Tejano music playing. Juan had the opportunity to both play and tour with a number of Tejano legends including Oskar Hernandez Y Los Profesionales and Steve Jordan.
He also played and recorded with Rene Serrata Y Los Buenos. Some of his recordings with Los Buenos includes, “Tu Vestido Blanco”, “Que Metida De Pata”, “Como Te Lamas Tu” ... and some recent recordings with Joe Revelez [keyboards], Rene Lopez [accordion] and Pete Garza [drums].
Juan also formed his own group ‘Estilo” and recorded a CD: [Doing It In Style] with Rene Lopez, Pete Garza, Roy Gutierrez and Gilberto Olivares. Juan Medrano’s new band "Texas Cats” will start playing during the summer of 2009. Juan Medrano and Texas Cats take-off will coincide with a brand new CD scheduled for completion during the summer of 2009.
The CD will showcase a mixture of modern and contemporary Tejano rancheras and cumbias along with salsa rock with soulful guitar riffs. Texas Cats are in the market for a recording label.
Rebecca Valadez, Texas: |
The Godfather of Tejano Soul ... NORTH TEXAS TEJANO LIVING LEGEND, Crazy Chuy Hernandez:
Chuy was inducted into the Tejano R.O.O.T.S. Hall of Fame in August of 2003 and the recipient of the "Living Legend Award" at the 3rd Annual Tejano Connection's Music Awards.
In May of 1998, began his professional musical career; in 1963 at the age of 12 as a drummer with his brother Refugio in a Rock & Roll band.
In 1966, influenced by the Tex-Mex sounds of the Legends, Little Joe and Sunny Ozuna, Chuy joined The Sun-Lites (Tex-Mex Orquesta) and has never looked back.
His career spans more than 40 years as a musician with Chayo Luna y
Sus Tres Reales, The Organization Band, The Laymen Gospel Quartet
and many more. He has on numerous occasions performed as special
guest drummer with grupos such as Fandango U.S.A, Texas Latino,
Johnny Bustamante & L.A. Band, Conjunto Villarreal, plus many more.
In the 1980s and due to legal blindness, Chuy left performing with bands and became a radio announcer with KUQQ 1540 AM in Ft. Worth Texas where he earned his radio name of 'Crazy Chuy' for his humor and wild antics on the airwaves.
In
1983-84, he produced and hosted The Chicano Express
Show Band on cable television in Dallas. In
1985
he came to KBEC 1390 AM and produced a Tejano show called Chicano
Express where he promoted Tejano music of the present and Chicano
classics of the past.
In
1988, Crazy Chuy
presented Selena her first Female Entertainer of the Year Award at
the 8th Annual Tejano Music Awards in San Antonio Texas. In
1994-1996,
he and along with Joe Herrera, co-produced and hosted Tejano Music
Videos in the D/FW metroplex. Later on 'Crazy Chuy' and with
another living legend, 'Super Loop Figueroa', worked
together at KNON 89.3 FM in Dallas.
Numerous awards adorn his office wall such as the Tejano Connection's Living Legend Award, 1998; Hispanic Broadcaster's Association Most Promising Deejay in 1992; and most recently in 2003 he was inducted into the prestigious Tejano R.O.O.T.S Hall of Fame.
There are also many awards from civic organizations,
bands, and car clubs for his contributions on working to raise funds
for scholarships, and youth gang preventions.
Presently, Crazy Chuy is still very involved in the music world with his new Chicano Express Radio Show, now broadcasting on the Internet at www.ChicanoExpress.com
Ramon Hernandez
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Little Joe, Temple Texas:
Jose Maria de Leon Hernandez, the man known to millions of Tejano fans by his stage name, Little Joe, was born in 1940 in Temple, a West Texas town rich in Hispanic culture. Since 1956, when Joe and his brothers Jesse and Johnny joined their cousin David Coronado to form their first group, David Coronado & the Latinaires, Hernandez has been at the forefront of popular Chicano music in Texas. Joe, the seventh of 13 children, grew up in a strong family unit, but in the '50s Texas held few opportunities for Mexican Americans. "I'd see my mom out pulling a cotton sack along, pregnant, with my brothers and sisters," Hernandez recalled in a recent interview. Joe's father worked odd jobs, including smuggling jars of liquor into dry counties like Lubbock; he also had a small marijuana dealership that got him a four-year stretch in prison. At the time his father was busted, Joe was 15 and he became the man of the house. It was while his father was away that Joe asked his mother for the money to buy a guitar. She gave him 15 dollars for his first instrument. The next year he was in the Latinaires.
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