Lalo Guerrero is rightfully recognized as the “Father of Chicano Music” because no other Chicano artist has come close to writing and recording more great songs in virtually every genre of Latin music, including salsa, norteña, banda, rancheras, boleros, corridos, cumbias, mambos, cha cha chas, socially relevant songs, swing, rock & roll and blues.
He has also created children’s music, comedy songs and parodies, in addition to being a world-class singer. Generations of children in Mexico and the U.S. grew up with his “Ardillitas” (squirrels), and his parodies such as, “Tacos for Two”, “Pancho Claus”, “Elvis Perez” and “There’s No Tortillas” have brought laughter to Chicanos and people of all races and ethnicities. His songs about Cesar Chavez and the farm workers, the braceros, martyred journalist Ruben Salazar, and the plight of illegal aliens, have chronicled Chicano history and inspired his people. He’s the only Chicano I know of who has written songs that have become standards in Mexico. His “Cancion Mexicana” was covered by legendary singers such as, Lucha Reyes and Lola Beltrán, while “Nunca Jamas” was recorded by the equally legendary Trío Los Panchos, Javier Solís, and José Feliciano. As Jesus Velo, bassist for Chicano rock band Los Illegals, recently quipped, “Lalo’s the first Chicano to cross back” (as opposed to cross over). His Pachuco music of the late 40s and early 50s provided the sound track to Luis Valdez’ late 70s play and movie, “Zoot Suit.” All the above offers just a glimpse of over 700 songs he’s recorded since his first record in 1939, with Los Carlistas on Vocalion Records.
Source: Lalo Guerrero: The Father of Chicano Music
No comments:
Post a Comment