Los Lobos
Over the past 35 years, The East L.A. five-piece Los Lobos has assembled a body of work diverse enough to cripple most bands and to captivate fans world wide. Along the way, they’ve redefined how a rock band – and rock music – can sound.
Many musical groups are eclectic, but few are both as unpredictable and successful as Los Lobos. The band has notched a number one single, won three Grammys, and sold millions of records. They’ve shared the stage with acts as varied as Dylan, The Clash, and U2. And they’ve received tremendous critical acclaim—from their major label debut, How Will the Wolf Survive? (which made Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time) to their most recent effort, 2006’s The Town and The City (which drew four-star reviews in Rolling Stone, Mojo, The Independent and many others).
Read Los Lobo’s full bio as a PDF
Robert Mirabal
Two-time Grammy® Award winner, Robert Mirabal, lives with his family at the foot of the sacred Taos Mountain in northern New Mexico. Maintaining a traditional life, keeping the centuries-old customs of the Taos Pueblo people, Robert has been described as a Native American “Renaissance man” – musician, composer, painter, master craftsman, poet, actor, screenwriter, horseman and farmer – and he travels extensively playing his music all over the world.
If you live a traditional life you see things differently—spiritually and musically. His dozen albums of traditional music, rock and roll, and spoken word present a contemporary view of American Indian life that is unequaled. My music is informed by the ceremonial music that I’ve heard all my life. What I create comes out of my body and soul in a desire to take care of the spirits of the earth. A leading proponent of world music, Robert has merged his indigenous American sound with those of Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, tapping into a planetary pulse with a style that defies categorization. My travels have provided me with experiences that I could have never imagined, and exposed me to a global sound and a global voice.
Whether as a composer, songwriter, or musician, Robert has won many honors including two-time Native American Artist of the Year, three-time Songwriter of the Year, a 2006 GRAMMY Award for Sacred Ground, and his 2008 GRAMMY Award for Johnny Whitehorse Totemic Flute Chants, blending all of Robert’s influences into a musical landscape that conjures up both the historic and contemporary West. His 2002 breakthrough PBS Special, Music From a Painted Cave is unsurpassed in Native American theatrical expression. He is also the author of A Skeleton of a Bridge – a book of poetry, prose, and short stories, and most recently his book, Running Alone in Photographs – a memoir laced with gritty, introspective prose, that opens a window to a palpable experience of life in the Pueblo through the voice of Robert’s alter-ego Reyes Winds.
As a theatrical performer, Robert is no stranger to transforming himself. Most recently, he portrayed Tony Lujan (Taos Pueblo), the famed husband of Mable Dodge Lujan, in the movie Georgia O’Keeffe, a retrospective about artist Georgia O’Keeffe. This past summer Robert premiered Po’Pay Speaks, his one-man show in Santa Fe about the leader of the Pueblo Revolt (1680) that is going to be nothing short of groundbreaking, as well as educational.
Will Banister
Although he’s yet to become a household name and, to date, has only scored regional success, Clovis, New Mexico-based Will Banister is already creating a buzz among country music fans some 5,000 miles away.
Still seeking for a major record deal, Banister’s debut album Turned Her On To Country was first given a thumbs up from award-winning country music presenter and columnist David Allan, then received a ecstatic Album Of The Month review in Europe’s top genre publication Country Music People which, in turn, quickly led on to swift action from the import dealers to meet buyers’ response.
Now he’s been added to the bill of the much awaited, re-launched International Festival of Country Music, to be staged at London’s Wembley Arena on Sunday, February 26, 2012—and the predictions are that he’ll be one of the real hits of the show.
“I think it is so neat that people clear across the sea love country music,” said Banister. “Can’t wait to get to London and put on a show”.
Although he’s only 23 years old, Will Banister—who has been singing in the West Texas, Eastern New Mexico area for the past dozen years—possesses a vocal styling that gives no indication of his age, earning him comparisons to George Strait, Alan Jackson and Merle Haggard. Just as impressive are his songwriting skills, prompting Duncan Warwick in his Country Music People! review to comment: “…. his writing shows great maturity, and more important, what makes a good country song. He has seemingly soaked up all the right influences ….”
All the songs on Banister’s Turned Her On To Country are self-penned and can be heard on his website: www.willbanister.com. The album is produced by Johnny Mulhair, whose successful track record includes production of LeAnn Rimes’ 1996 Gold breakthrough record Blue.
With appreciation already growing for Will Banister across the water, a Nashville record deal must be the next step up the career ladder for an artist whose youth, image and music well fits the parameters of the mainstream country music scene.
FIREBALLS
The FIREBALLS of Raton, were the 1st rock & roll recording band from New Mexico :
(a) To become internationally known for their instrumental recordings of “Fireball” “Torquay” “Bulldog” “Vaquero” “Gunshot” “Quite A Party”…
(b) To have a #1 vocal song “Sugar Shack” in Billboard Magazine…
(c) To retain the #1 position for 5 weeks in a row…
(d) To have the largest selling single recording of all recordings released in the USA for a one year period, 1963, certified by RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America)…
‘For the record’, the Fireballs still hold the record !! None of the above have been surpassed by any other rock & roll recording band from New Mexico to date.
SOUL KITCHEN, FEATURING CHRIS DRACUP AND HILLARY SMITH
Something of an Albuquerque super group, SOUL KITCHEN features vocalist extraordinaire, Hillary Smith, winner of Alb the Magazine’s 2007, 2008, 2009 “Best Vocalist” and whose latest CD, NO EASY WAY walked away with five 2009 NM Music Awards, including “Best of the Year”. Guitar hero, Chris Dracup, also named “Best Musician” by Alb the Magazine and winner of Local IQ’s, “Best Solo Act” is the driving force behind Albuquerque’s SOUL KITCHEN. Bassist, Marcus Casman & drummer, Mark Clark, both accomplished musicians/ recording artists, round out the New Mexico based band, voted Albuquerque’s “Best Blues Group”, 2010. Soul Kitchen creates a dynamic blues-drenched sound that musically wanders somewhere between Saturday night revelry and Sunday morning redemption.
LA CHAT LUNATIQUE
As unpredictable, fearless, and entertaining as their namesake, Le Chat Lunatique purveys an addictive genre they call “filthy, mangy jazz,” a signature sound that makes you want to smoke and drink too much—if only you could get off the dance floor. Le jazz hot of Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli is their north star, but they use that beacon to navigate through a wide range of genres, blending Western swing, classical, reggae, doowop, and “anything else we damn well please” into strikingly original compositions and audaciously reworked standards alike.
SON COMO SON
Son Como Son bills itself as Salsa Cuban Style. Founded in 1993 it is unquestionably one of Albuquerque’s longest-standing and most popular salsa ensembles, they play regularly to packed audiences comprising highly animated and dedicated, salseros at the NM Jazz Workshop’s Salsa Under the Stars Series; at The Cooperage; as well as at special concerts such as those at the Telluride Jazz Festival. They are directed by renowned trombonist, vocalist, percussionist, composer, and arranger César Bauvallet who moved from Havana, Cuba to Albuquerque in 1992. In addition to César Bauvallet, Son Como Son comprises some of Albuquerque’s most accomplished and busiest musicians. It’s Paul Gonzales, trumpet, background vocals; Martin Carlucci, trumpet, background vocals; Jim Firkins, trombone, background vocals; Mary Wommack, piano, background vocals; Janet Harman, bass, background vocals; Victor Rodríguez, congas, lead vocals; Lester Rodríguez, vocals; and Tomás White, drums, timbales.
COWBOYS & INDIAN
Cowboys and Indian is a high-energy, rockabilly/hillbilly band from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Inspired by artists such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Burnette, Buck Owens, and many more, they’ve been working hard bring their revved-up hillbilly sound to rock n’ roll fanatics all over New Mexico and are currently beginning to branch out of state.
With just a guitar, a bass, and a drum set, Cowboys & Indian brings rock n’ roll back to its roots; simple, loud, and raw.
THE HUBCAPS
The Hubcaps is an exciting Rock and Roll Oldies review. This blast from the past show will take you back into time, when pompadours, converse’s, leather jackets and poodle skirts were at the top of the fashion world. Along with the costumes, The Hubcaps bring the Rock and Roll and Doo Wop back to life.
FRANK LETO and PANdemonium featuring PILAR LETO and the ODARA DANCE ENSEMBLE
Frank Leto and PANdemonium are joined by Pilar Leto and the Odara Dance Ensemble in a dazzling production blending original music, vibrant dance, and exquisite costumes celebrating the Carnaval traditions of Cuba, Trinidad, New Orleans, and Brazil. This show allows the audience to travel to Cuba to experience the African god of thunder & lighting, “Chango” and “Yemaya” the queen of the sea. Parade down the streets of Havana with Cuba’s carnaval rhythm the “conga”. Then it’s off to Trinidad for their carnaval rhythm the calypso featuring the steel pan. Stroll down Bourbon St. to the jazz and blues of New Orleans. A non-stop flight to Rio De Janeiro treats the audience to the sights and sounds of Brazil’s samba, samba-reggae, frevo, capoeira and batucada. Frank’s original compositions perfectly fuse with Pilar’s choreography creating an evening of celebration, culture, dance and joy!
AL HURRICANE
Al Hurricane was born on July 10, 1936 in Dixon, New Mexico. His birth name is Alberto Nelson Sanchez. Hurricane was a nickname given to him by his mother because he was like a little Hurricane, always knocking things over at the dinner table and objects in his path. His father’s name is Jose Margarito Sanchez who died in 1979, and his mother’s name is Bennie L. Sanchez, who died recently.
Hurricane started singing at about three years of age and started playing the guitar at five years old. His Mom showed him how to play a song on one string of the guitar. When his Dad came home, Hurricane showed him what he had learned and his Dad said, “very good mi hito, now let me show you how to play the song on two strings.” At the age of 12, he was singing and playing guitar at the wishing well in Old Town Albuquerque for tips. Hurricane attended numerous schools while growing up and graduated from Albuquerque High School in 1954.
Hurricane has played guitar for such legendary artists as Fats Domino and Marvin Gaye. Hurricane’s band has also backed up artists such as Chuck Berry, Jimmy Clanton and Chubby Checker. Hurricane owned a recording studio in Albuquerque, which contained equipment that Buddy Holly recorded on, and was purchased from Norman Petty. He still owns a recording studio but it has been updated with new equipment. He also co-owned a nightclub known as the Far West, where he performed for many years.
The loss of his right eye was the result of a car accident on November 1, 1969, on the way to a performance in Denver. But, the accident and the new eye patch didn’t stop the music. Hurricane has won numerous awards, such as The Lifetime Achievement Award given to him by the New Mexico Hispanic Awards Association, the Governor’s Award for Music in 1993, and May 5, 2002 was named Al Hurricane and Family Day.
AL HURRICANE, JR.
Al Hurricane, Jr. was born to Alberto Nelson Sanchez (Al Hurricane) and Nettie M. Fleming on October 30, 1959 in Albuquerque. His birth name is Alberto Nelson Sanchez, Jr. Hurricane is a nickname inherited from his father.
Al, Jr.’s first public performance was at the age of five at the Civic Auditorium in Albuquerque. He sang “Love Potion #9.” Early in his youth, he began to learn the drums and switched to guitar lessons at age five. He began to learn the trumpet at age eight. At the age of 12, his father entered him into piano lessons while he continued playing the trumpet in school bands, such as the symphonic and the jazz band. This is when Al, Jr. started to learn some of his father’s songs as well as those of his uncles, Tiny Morrie and Baby Gaby. This eventually led to him join the Al Hurricane Band. Most of his practice was from performances at the Far West Night Club.
He was only 14 years old when he recorded his first song, “El Pintor,” and has performed with his dad’s band for more than 30 years. He has recorded and released six solo albums. His song “Flor de las Flores” was voted the #1 song 10 years running on 89.1 KANW-FM. He has recorded four albums with his father. His trumpet and valve trombone were featured on the recordings of Tiny Morrie and Baby Gaby.
When Al, Jr. made his first recordings in the Hurricane Studios in Albuquerque, it was on the very equipment that Buddy Holly used in Clovis, NM. Today, Al, Jr. records in his father’s studio with state-of-the-art equipment. Al and Al, Jr. have toured in such places as: Chicago; Miami; Asuncion; Paraguay; Buenos Aires and Malaga, Spain, but with the majority taking place in the Southwestern United States.
BILL AND BONNIE HEARNE
Bill and Bonnie Hearne’s professional life had its genesis in the folk music club scene in Austin, TX in the late 1960s. Established stars like Carolyn Hester and Jerry Jeff Walker found an enthusiastic reception in Texas’ bohemian-flavored capitol. A few years later, younger musicians such as Lyle Lovett, Nanci Griffith, Robert Earl Keen and Tish Hinojosa listened, and began to glimpse the outlines of their life’s work. “Nanci used to talk about slipping into places underage to hear us,” Bill recalled fondly. Bonnie added, “Lyle opened a show for us at (Houston’s) Anderson Fair.”
The Hearnes first crossed paths at the Chequered Flag in Austin around 1970. The sound that eventually evolved was multi-faceted, stylistically unfettered and eminently listenable. It combined the gospel roll of Bonnie’s piano and the quicksilver flight of Bill’s acoustic guitar, buoyed by dueting vocals that twined together with an organic unity.
In 1979, Bill and Bonnie left Texas for Red River, a friendly little Western-flavored ski town in the mountains of northern New Mexico. In June and July of 1996, the Hearnes recorded in Austin and Nashville, TN with a group of prodigiously talented session musicians, including Dobro virtuoso Al Perkins, bassist Roy Huskey, Jr., steel guitarist Lloyd Maines, fiddle player Stuart Duncan, and others. They combined those personalities with exceptional material by writers of the caliber of Ian Tyson, Eliza Gilkyson, Steve Gillette, Lyle Lovett, and others, including Bonnie Hearne.
Bill and Bonnie have been based in Santa Fe, NM for more than two decades. These transplanted Texans have been playing to audiences from Los Angeles to Boston for more than thirty years. Their latest release, Celebration: Live at the La Fonda, was recorded in August of 2002. Produced by Grammy® award-winning Jim Rooney and the brainchild of journalist and fan Mary Alden, Celebration began as a celebration of the ten-year relationship between Bill and Bonnie and the historic La Fonda Hotel in Santa Fe.
DADDY Os
Based in Albuquerque, the DADDY Os are an energetic trio of musicians and songwriters who hold a deep respect for the rootsy rock and roll music of the 50s.
Tom Gutierrez is a veteran guitarist and vocalist who cut his teeth gigging around the mid west for a few years, then returned to his native New Mexico to play in local bars and parties with his cover band. Rob Martinez is known in New Mexico as a singer of traditional Hispanic and Mexican songs and corridos (ballads), performing year in and year out with his musical family. From the start, Rob and Tom clicked vocally and in their musicianship, joyfully playing early Elvis and Everly Brothers songs. The duo then called upon veteran Albuquerque drum maestro Gary Gabaldon, who is moonlighting in a country band, to play with the DADDY Os.
No sooner did the DADDY Os start honing their set list of classic gems that includes songs such as Blue Suede Shoes, Roll Over Beethoven and Honey Don’t, that Rob and Tom started writing their own original songs. With titles like Gimmie, Ghost Ride and Burnin’ In My Heart, these DADDY Os originals and covers make for a show that will keep toes tapping and crowds clapping for a long time.
ROY “DUSTY” ROGERS, JR.
People often comment how difficult it must be for Roy “Dusty” Rogers Jr. to stand on stage in his father’s shadow. Dusty quickly responds, “As Roy’s son, it is NOT my job to stand in my father’s shadow; but, it IS my job to lengthen it, and that is what I try to do on stage every day.”
As the only natural born son of Roy Rogers and raised by the famous entertainment couple, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, Dusty has been acting and performing since birth. As a small child, Dusty appeared in his parents’ TV series “The Roy Rogers Show” on NBC. He performed with his parents during their summer tours at rodeos and state fairs. As a young man, he appeared in the movies “To Forgive a Thief” for Cathedral Films and “Arizona Bushwhackers” for Paramount Films. He was a disc jockey for WBKC in Chardon, Ohio, and has made numerous radio appearances throughout the United States. Dusty had his own television show on WEWS out of Cleveland, Ohio, “The Roy Rogers Jr. Show.” Other TV appearances throughout the years have included the Dennis Hunt Show in Las Vegas, The Tommy Hunter Show in Canada, KMEX Television in Los Angeles, Nashville Network’s I-40 Paradise, The John Davidson Show, Entertainment Tonight, The Merv Griffin Show, The Fall Guy, Good Morning America, The TODAY Show, FOX & Friends, and he currently appears weekly on
RFD-TV.
Prior to assuming his music career full time, Dusty ran his own construction company. In 1986, he released his biography, “Growing Up With Roy & Dale.” In 1989, he became manager for Roy Rogers. Shortly thereafter, Dusty served as President of the Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum—a California 501c(3) nonprofit—until its closing in December 2009.
As for entertaining, it was only a matter of time before Dusty followed in the footsteps of his parents and launched his own recording career. He formed his own band, The High Riders, in 1982. He has recorded for Chart Records in Nashville, Teletex Records in Dallas, and Vistone Records in Los Angeles. Dusty’s singing has taken him to many concert halls and dinner houses throughout the United States and Canada. In 2003 and 2004, he had the distinct honor of performing at the esteemed Carnegie Hall in New York. From 2003 through 2009, Dusty performed in his very own “Happy Trails Theatre” in Branson, Missouri, located inside the Roy Rogers-Dale Evans Museum. In 2010, Dusty moved his show to the Mickey Gilley Theatre in Branson where he continues to perform his live morning show. This year in 2012, Dusty will be performing in the afternoons at RFD-TV The Theatre, in Branson, MO. During off season in Branson, “Roy Rogers Jr. and The High Riders” take the show on the road to perform at various venues, festivals, and conventions. In the spring of 2008, Dusty’s son —Dustin Roy Rogers—joined his father on stage to sing in the tradition of his father and grandfather before him.
Whether appearing by himself or with his band and son, you will experience a wide variety of emotions as you listen to Dusty sing. You will appreciate his transparency as he shares with the audience stories of growing up with his famous parents as only Dusty can do. Dusty continues the legacy of Roy Rogers & Dale Evans by providing quality entertainment for the entire family. An honor of which he is very proud, FAME (Families Advocating Moral Entertainment) named Roy Rogers Jr. their 2009 and 2010 “Western Artist of the Year.”
Coleman Academy of Irish Dance
The Coleman Academy of Irish Dance was founded formally on September 4, 2010. Prior to that, Jennifer London (née Coleman), TCRG taught for three and a half years in cooperation with the McTeggart School based in Denver, CO. The Coleman family helped to found the Albuquerque branch of the McTeggart School in 1997 after finding that no school existed in the state. Both of the Coleman sisters assisted Anne Hall, ADCRG with the New Mexico McTeggart classes for 14 years, gaining valuable experience towards building a successful future school.
Syd Masters
Syd is a singer and songwriter of traditional western music. He is the author and recording artist of the Official State Cowboy Song of New Mexico. The Western Music Association, Academy of Western Artists and The New Mexico Music Industry have combined to nominate him for more than 60 awards over the past decade. “Vocalist of the Year,” “Country Song of the Year,” “Best Album,” Best Band,” Most Humorous Song,” and “Best Song” are some of the categories in which he was victorious.
Earlier this century the U.S. Department of State named him Cultural Ambassador for his work entertaining the secret service departments of 26 foreign countries in the Diplomatic Security Antiterrorism Assistance Program. Syd has been seen on television commercials and billboards throughout the west as spokesman for the Powerball Lottery Campaign. His original compositions have been used in numerous film productions ranging from documentaries and television broadcasts to the Universal Studios motion picture “Paul.” He and his Swing Riders are a highly talented, thoroughly funny, good time cowboy band out to save vintage western music one two-step at a time.
James & Ernie
James Junes and Ernest Tsosie, III of the Navajo Nation are sober and drug free Native American comedians who have been performing stand up comedy through out Native America and Canada. Drawing in standing only crowds and performing their hilarious take on Native American life and current affairs, James & Ernie one the top and hardest comedy working acts!
Their comedy always includes their take on current issues (recession, healthcare, etc) and goes beyond the usual stand-up by including dance skits, imitations and use of props.
Through their 9 years of performing solo and as a team, James & Ernie have developed their act to appeal to both a Native American and mainstream audience.
Within that time they have visited many tribes and places in Native America with their healing comedy and strong testimonies of surviving and defeating drug addiction, alcoholism, child hood abuse, and more. They have visited the mighty Sioux in South Dakota, the Pueblos of New Mexico, The Rancherias of California, to the Seminoles of Florida, and many more sharing their comedy and inspiring stories of survival.
James and Ernie are the 2009 recipients for “Comedians of the Year” at the North American Indigenous Image Awards, an award that includes both the USA and Canada. They have played and hosted some of Native Americas most popular entertainment events such as the Native American Music Awards, the American Indian Motion Picture Awards, the Gathering of the Nations, and others. James & Ernie have also headlined as casino entertainment at casinos such as Casino Arizona, Sky City Casino, and The Inn of the Mountain Gods.
Movies that James & Ernie have been a part of include the award winning “Mile Post 398” in which Ernie was awarded “Best Supporting Actor” at the 32nd Annual American Indian Motion Picture Awards in San Francisco, CA for his role as “Ray Yazzie” and nominated for the same role at the 2009 North American Indigenous Image Awards. The pair also has two award winning comedy videos “James & Ernie-fied 04” and “Fun In the Sun” and one audio CD “James and Ernie Live at the El Morro Theater.
Lastly James and Ernie are not only sober, drug free, and abuse free Native entertainers but more importantly they are both sober, drug free, and abuse free husbands, fathers, and Native American men!
“It’s great to be a Native American but it’s even greater to be a Sober, Drug free, and abuse free Native American.” – Ernest David Tsosie, III
The Plateros
Plateros is a three piece family blues rock power trio, from tohajiilee nm, the eastern agency Of the navajo nation within the southwest of the united states, they first came on the music Scene in december 2004, at a small church in birdspring az, then by april 2005 they were invited to The biggest pow wow in the world, “the gathering of nations” for a 20-min set on the “reach the rez Stage”, at the time the lead guitar player was only 12yrs old, levi, came out on the stage that Night and just amazed the packed crowd, the young guitarist slid across the stage with power Chords, and screaming blues notes as his dad murphy backed his son with bass guitar, vocals, His older cousin kept the beat on drums, as this family gave their 1st major performance, by The end of the show the crowd had just seen the arrival of another native american family Band like indigenous, redbone they gave the young boy and his family band a huge welcome to The native american music scene. Little did they know that this was just the beginning of a Journey that would take them from a small indian reservation across the entire country Even to the 2009 u.s. presidental ball.
Today levi is 18 yrs old, continues to perform with his family, they have performed over 250 Shows since 2005, they are consider one of the most exciting bands to watch live, in 2009 they Won best blues at the new mexico music awards from their 2nd album “hang on”, nominated twice By the native american music awards in 2006 and 2008, their first music video “forever i’m with you” Was nominated for best music video by the 2009 american indian film festival in san francisco ca, In 2008 to 2009 they were seleted with other well know national native acts in the 1st native music Rock tour in 15 seleted cities at hard rock cafe’s across the u.s sponsor by the seminole tribe of fl In conjuction with hard rock international, these are just a few things this young band have achieve, Their performance is fill with some amazing energy with a mixsture of blues, rock, funk and gospel With his cousin douglas on drums who started the band with him, in march of 2010 they recruited Long time friend and cousin, bronson begay, all three boys fell in love with music at very young ages, Watching and listening to their family’s play music and sing in church, they didn’t get no formal Training of anykind when it comes to music, just what their school offered, they learn by ear, and Most of all they have passion.
Their style is a mixs of texas blues, with a touch of 70′s rock and roll, though young they have gain A strong stage present, with levi’s strong bluesy vocals, and amazing guitar riffs that has been Campared to stevie ray, henry garza of los lonely boys, and mato of indigenous, with their own Lyrics and music from their first award winning album “hang on”, they have gain a reputation as Being a solid blues rock band.
Native Roots
Formed in 1997 by musician/composer John Williams (Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota Sioux) and vocalist/lyricist Shkeme Garcia (Tamaya/Jemez Pueblos), Albuquerque based Native Roots are dedicated to the sound and spirit Reggae music. Rooted by Native American life, cultural & music, both John & Shkeme, were also strongly influenced by Reggae music but didn’t know of each other until introduced by a mutual friend. Determined to be more than a cover band, Native Roots focused on creating their own sound, songs & style. They have released 3 CD’s, all have been nominated for awards and 2 are award winning, they include; (1999) Place I Call Home, (2002) Rain us Love, (2007) Native Roots: Celebrate Our Lives. They are currently working on their 4th CD with a tentative release date of winter 2012.
Native Roots’ genre- melding composition uniquely reaches out to audiences through exceptional live performances which are a dynamic addition to the international reggae music scene and Native American genre. These performances have gained them an international fan base and radio play. Shkeme, Lead Singer & Lyricist, known for his non-stop dance moves, is also an internationally known award winning children’s book author & storyteller. John Williams, Keyboardist & Composer, a multiple instrument musician and is a high school Native American history teacher. Lead Guitarist Jahson Garduno, has toured with Ky-Mani Marley and Andrew Tosh, Bassist Carol Johnson (Isleta Pueblo/Dine’) an accomplished guitarist & bassist in his own right, and newest to the group is Drummer Joey “The General” Evans. Through danceable world beats and positive lyrical themes of language, culture, elders, youth & empowerment, Native Roots soldiers on with Bob Marley’s universal and global “One Love” message.
Native Roots’ music appeals to a large spectrum of audience demographics (youth, elders, mainstream, native) and receives national and international airplay Well traveled, Native Roots’ has performed nationally at casinos, Tribal Nation events, community events, reggae festivals. A highlight was performing throughout New Zealand. Notably Native Roots has been show cased within premier lineups which have included reggae greats such as: Stephan Marley, Katchafire, Ky-Mani Marley, Kevens, Israel Vibration, Burning Spear, Culture and Toots and the Maytals. Premier venues include: Gathering of Nations/Miss Indian World, Native American Music Awards, Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Bob Marley Reggae Festival, Cherokee Tribal Fair, Seminole Tribe of Florida Fair, Sundance Film Festival and Te Matatini Festival (New Zealand).
(Robert Gonzalez) is a native New Mexican (born and raised in Las Vegas, NM) who records and performs traditional Spanish music. Gonzalo has earned his place in New Mexico music from his fans due to astonishing hits from his first CD, “Adolorido,” released in 2001. His second CD “Mil Copas,” was released in 2002 and surpassed the sales of his first CD. In 2003 he released his self-titled album that brought to the New Mexico music scene his most popular song, “Sin Sal ni Limon.” Most recently Gonzalo released a Greatest Hits CD in April of 2010 which has once again propelled Gonzalo to the top of the New Mexico music scene. Currently, Gonzalo is in the studio working on a number of different projects, including a tribute to the world renowned Antonio Aguilar, as well as a compilation CD.
Gonzalo
Gonzalo has received numerous awards throughout his career for his musical talents and accomplishments. He received seven New Mexico Hispano Music Awards including: Male Vocalist of the Year, CD of the Year and Producer of the year in 2001, and swept the awards in 2003 including: CD of the Year, Song of the Year, Vocal Duo of the Year, and Band of the Year, and was honored by unveiling the Cesar E. Chavez stamp at the Latin Slam Cinco de Mayo in 2003. In January of 2011, Gonzalo again was honored at the New Mexico Hispano Music Awards, receiving CD of the Year, Producer of the Year, Cumbia of the Year, and Duet of the Year.
Gonzalo has appeared at some of the most prestigious venues throughout the Southwest. These include: Journal Pavilion, Colorado Event Center, Summerfestin Downtown Albuquerque, Sandia Casino Ampitheater, Balloon Fiesta Park, Camel Rock Casino, Hard Rock Casino showroom (formerly Isleta Casino), Route 66 Casino showroom and the Santa Ana Casino showroom. Gonzalo continues to tour the southwest backed by a seven-piece band. His show is considered one of the hottest tickets in New Mexico music, having sold out venues in more than 20 cities and towns in 3 different states. Complete with a powerful horn section, an in the pocket rhythm section and state of the art sound and light show. Gonzalo captures audiences of all ages with his incredible and contagious energy level, performing traditional and lively rancheras and cumbias, and has taken New Mexico music to another level.
Onawa Lacy
Onawa L. Lacy is a storyteller, model, singer, motivational speaker, and host. She is a member of the Navajo Nation and was born and raised in Gallup, NM to parents Rena and Rodney Lacy. Onawa is a 2000 graduate of Gallup High School and holds a BA in Native American Studies and a BA in English from the University of New Mexico. Onawa held the titles of Miss Indian New Mexico 2001-2002; Miss Indian World 2003-2004; and Miss New Mexico USA 2005-2006. In 2006 Onawa competed for the internationally televised Miss USA 2006 pageant in Baltimore, MD and appeared on such shows as NBC’s hit game show Deal or No Deal as briefcase model #15; MTV’s Total Request Live; Fox News’ Dayside; NBC’s Today show; LIVE! with Regis and Kelly, and The Morning Show.
Ehecatl Aztec Dancers
Kalpulli Ehecatl is a warrior style dance and musical group founded by Mapitzmitl Xiukwetzpaltzin (PAZ) in 1986 following the death of mentor Florencio Yescas. Ehecatl has two components; Ehecatl Aztec Dancers, the dance and musical component of the Kalpulli, who participate in ceremonial Mexica/Chichimeca dance and also perform their music and dance worldwide. Public performances are a mixture of music, dance and storytelling and are presented in a tri-lingual format of Nahuatl or Aztec, Spanish and English. Ehecatl Aztec Dancers have presented at such prestigious venues as The Kennedy Center in Washington DC, The Smithsonian Institute, The Heard Museum, and numerous institutions ,universities and schools throughout the USA. They have performed in Europe, the Philippine Islands, Canada, and Mexico. The second component of Kalpulli Ehecatl consists of a series of cultural awareness workshops and lectures offered by Mapitzmitl Xiukwetzpaltzin (PAZ). These tekios or workshops have been presented worldwide since 1996. The mission of Kalpulli Ehecatl is to entertain while educating the public as to who Mexicans (Americans) are as Native American people who maintain a living/evolving tradition.
Yjastros
Truly Flamenco, Uniquely American Out of his woven culture, Joaquin Encinias created Yjastros: The American Flamenco Repertory Company, a revolutionary flamenco performance entity that is a unique blend of two very different dance performance formats. With Yjastros, Encinias joins the structured improvisation of traditional flamenco and the mosaic quality of the American style repertory company. The company’s given name “Yjastros” or stepchildren, describes the true nature of this repertory company-that of a new culture of flamenco, a distinctive breed of this performance art that is both American and deeply rooted in the flamenco heritage.
Cathryn McGill
Cathryn McGill is a favorite featured singer/songwriter in the Southwest. She has shared the stage with major artists such as Lyle Lovett, the late Grover Washington, Jr. and Bo Diddley among others. Stylistically Cathryn is influenced by Ella Fitzgerald, Etta James, Roberta Flack and Betty Carter, but she has perfected a presentation all her own. One reviewer described her vocal performance as “electrifying, gospel-cooked jazz and blues.” Cathryn has deep roots in the gospel tradition having grown up singing in church choirs in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Today you’ll find Ms. McGill lighting up the stage in churches and nightclub and concert venues all over the United States. In 2009, she released two critically acclaimed CD’s of original music – From The Inside, a collections of blues/soul/and RB& tunes and I’m On My Way, a gospel flavored inspirational and motivational CD based on the philosophies that if you change your thinking, you can change your life!
Rosalind Jones
Rosalind Jones hails from the city of Albuquerque, NM where she is partnering in ministry with her husband, Pastor J. L’Keith Jones. She serves as the Director of the Women’s Ministry at Metropolitan Temple COGIC and also as the Worship Leader and Senior Advisor in the Music Dept. She also serves as an Administrative Assistant under Dr. Judith McAllister in the International Music Department of the Church of God in Christ. God has blessed her to release two independent music projects under her own label, RoJo Music. The latest project being “All About Worship.
Before branching out on her own, she has shared the stage with some of God’s anointed vessels such as Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Winans, Donald Lawrence, the Clark Sisters, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, the Late Timothy Wright and many, many more. She has been teaching and ministering the Gospel for some 20 years now, traveling to various conferences and revivals throughout the United States and abroad. Not only is she an anointed Psalmist and recording artist but she is anointed to speak God’s Word. Wherever the Lord leads she will follow. Her personal theme, “Only What you do for Christ will last.”
Shirlette Weathersby
I, “Songbird In Flight” Shirlette Weathersby have been a Professional Singer/Entertainer who has been in the business several years and has a dynamic large range which enables me to sing all styles of music. I have also written a couple of songs. At 56 years of age now, my family and friends encourages me not to give up my dream of giving “God the Glory” by singing to the world. As a Child of the King, I realize and know for a fact “With GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!” Matthew 19:26. “I Humbly thank the Lord for ALWAYS loving me unconditionally! I have performed in New Mexico, Ohio, Kentucky, Nevada, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Panama City, Panama and Manila, Phillipines! Also many other venues and Events!
I consider this an honor to have the opportunity to perform and help make awareness regarding strokes and just having the awareness of how we can prevent strokes. AGAIN “WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!” I performed IN CONCERT on July 23, 2012 at the Radisson Hotel in Albuquerque, New Mexico! I performed IN CONCERT on January 14, 2012 at The Word of Life Restoration Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico! You can also see this concert on YouTube.
I also perform at the Sheraton Uptown 2600 LOUISIANA NE AT MENAUL in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is called “Sunday Gospel Brunch”! COME EAT BRUNCH AND BE BLESSED WITH SONGS OF PRAISE FOR JESUS!!!! WE PERFORM EVERY Last SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH… Every Friday, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, I perform at the Sheraton Uptown in Albuquerque, NM singing Contemporary/Jazz with Pianist Kevin Pollock. I have been performing professionally since the age of 16 years old and will continue to joyfully perform all over the world! I sing in a large range and sing all styles of music from Contemporary, Jazz, R&B, Country and Gospel. We perform as a duo as well as with a 4-6 Piece band for your Entertainment needs.
