Issuu

SPECIAL

PADRE/MADRE ISSUE

Remembering JANIE ESPARZA

LISA MORALES ANJELIQUE ANDIE BUSTAMANTE MARK STUART

Shelly Lares

PROTECTING OUR MUSIC

HELLO TMA TV! MAY/JUNE 2022

T E J A N O BACKSTAGE

CONTENTS MUSIC + CULTURE

MI COCINA- BARBI LEO SALGADO

MUSIC- ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

KARY KARINA- A LOVE LETTER TO MY PARENTS

36 18 PROGRAMMER NOTES

TEJANO GOLD COUNTDOWN SUMMER SERIES

EXCLUSIVE SHELLY LARES

20 AFFILIATE MARKETING 62

BASTARD SONS OF JOHNNY CASH

40 76 BETTY SULLIVAN

A SPECIAL MOTHERS DAY REMEMBERENCE JUANITA 'JANIE' ESPARZA

MAY/JUNE 2022

Thank you to everyone that made Tejano Backstage a HUGE success! Your support has been overwhelming. We now have over 3,000 subscribers and more than 15, 000 Tejano fans downloaded last month's issue! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your support means the world to us. Print copies are now available on our website- www.tejano-backstage.com This issue is dedicated to moms and dads, each celebrating special days in May & June. This issue also offers advice from programmers on how best to communicate, how to protect your music, and artist highlights. We hope you enjoy this issue. If you have an idea for a column or would like to be featured, feel free to reach out to us at TejanoBackstageMag@gmail.com or kelly.trevino@theplatinumgroupagency.com

Editor’s Note Contributors

Jennifer Osburn

About As the owner of The Platinum Group Agency, I manage all aspects of marketing, website and artist management. As Marketing Director for Tejano Gold Countdown, I have grown to love the music and culture that is Tejano. My career began as a Morning Show Host with KRYS-FM (K99) in Corpus Christi, Texas, & soon took on the Promotions Director role. I found planning station events and acting as artist concierge exciting & very rewarding. Acting as liason between the business and performers allowed me insight and respect for both. It also gave me a distinct advantage to help create & build, without losing sight of the bottom line. I have worked as Morning Talent, Promotions Director and Program Director at Clear Channel Communications, (now iHeart Media) Tejas Broadcasting and Convergent Broadcasting. I was blessed to be the first on-air jock to rank number one in all age group demographics in 2005 and Favorite Radio Host for Best of the Best in 2006. After radio I began to work with non-profits, including Texas State Aquarium as the Capital Campaign Coordinator and Signature Events Director & Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas Marketing Director/Media Spokeperson. Most recently I was the Regional Directo for the Heart of Texas-,Better Business Bureau, helping business owners and consumers and created the first program to be accepted to use the BBB Seal in 105 years. The program, Ethics In Action, is now being taught to children in the United States, Mexico and Canada, receiving recognition from WE.org, George Takei (Star Trek) and Emmitt Smith (Dallas Cowboys.) Throughout my career I served as Board of Director for Armed Forces Disciplinary Control Board, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate Board Director, Corpus Christi Education Foundation Board Director, Mayors Council for Education (Corpus Christi) Board Director, Advisory Council for Aged & Disability Board Director, The Builders Association Board Director, Vice President Board of Director of American Advertising Federation and graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Citizen Class of 2018. My passion is creating integrated key messaging, public relations strategies, internal and external communications, brand management and market strategies, all with a focus on helping grow the Tejano audience for generations to enjoy!

Kelly Trevino

Editor-in-Chief

Tejano Backstage Magazine

MAY/JUNE 2022 WWW.TEJANO-BACKSTAGE.COM

Caitlin Ruiz

Never Turn Away Clients Due to Staff Shortage Again! OFFERING PROFESSIONAL LIVE REMOTES ACROSS TEXAS GO-PRO staff ensures a sucessful remote EVERY time! We SET UP, provide vehicle, on air talent, marketing materials, contest, games & registration.

Tejano Artists

May/June 2022

From the legendary Mt. St. Helen’s volcano in Washington State, comes Los Volcanes de Eddie Rodriguez. The band currently resides in Seattle, Wa., however band leader Eddie Rodriguez quickly points their roots are “South Texas”. Together as a band for several decades, Los Volcanes de Eddie Rodriguez have become known as the goodwill ambassadors of Tejano music in territories where “Tejano” music is seldom heard, including a CBS national television appearance with Neil Diamond at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. Here in their home State of Texas, the band also is constantly recognized in award shows such as The Tejano Music Awards, where they were recently in the running for Album of the year.

This group and Producer, Rick Garcia have enjoyed a multi-decade association and now recording under the CHR Records label, Rick Garcia will continue to be at the helm of the recording of Los Volcanes de Eddie Rodriuez. This current single “Es Tiempo Que Decir Adios” is an original composition of Mario Coronado, keyboard player of Los Volcanes De Eddie Rodriguez. This progressive ranchera demonstrates the mainstream style of this talented band. 6

ARTISTS TO KNOW

www.tejano-backstage.com

May/June 2022

Andrea Michelle Lucero started singing at the age of five. She was brought up in a musical family. Her father and uncles had a band and she had the opportunity to sing at a young age. Her first ever song was “I fall to pieces by Patsy Cline.” Later, she elaborated in mariachi music, and was able to sing many different venues and be accompanied throughout New Mexico most prestigious performers. Andrea sang many years with a group called Cultura. Andrea Michelle went on to win her first award in 2008, (15 Grande) for original song, “Senor Cantinero.” Written by Andrea and her husband Anthony Lucero.

In 2013 Andrea joined new group “Divino.” Along with Grupo Divino Andrea has had the opportunity to share the stage with many prestigious performers and artists. Divino has 13 Awards in different categories through the NMHMA, and the 15 Grandes de Nuevo Mexico. 2 awards were given to her for Female vocalist in 2015, and 2017.

Andrea Michelle Andrea has been able to travel many different states and share the love of music with different people. Andrea Michelle has also had the opportunity to be played throughout different radio stations in New Mexico, Colorado, California, and Texas. Andrea Michelle has collaborated with her good Friend Christina Perea and won 2 awards with prior release “Ingrata” in 2019. And recently released “Brindaermos por Ellos” in 2020. This collaboration has been a very powerful combination with both women focusing on “Women’s Empowerment.” Currently Andrea is working on a podcast along with her husband called Vibe New Mexico. This opportunity has given her the chance to help preserve culture and the New Mexico music heritage and promote fellow musicians and artists. Vibe NM has reached all over the world and has many fans based overseas. The idea came during the COVID pandemic to help give listeners a chance to understand and connect with artists in a new way. Musicians and Artists have openly discussed struggles and triumphs alike. And it has also been used to encourage new aspiring artists into the NM Music Scene. Vibe NM has been able to interview many prestigious artists such as New Mexico Folk Music legend Sipriano Vigil, Darren Cordova, Antonio Reyna and so many newer and seasoned artists. The podcasts is slightly different from regular radio interviews because it gives the flexibility and versatility that regular radio may not be able to allow, Also these episodes are recorded and can be listened to through the platforms such as “Apple Podcast”, “Spotify” and ‘Anchor.” Open and canid “Vibe NM” is inspirational and has been one of Andrea Michelle’s most rewarding endeavors. Andrea Michelle works as an Advocate and Outreach Coordinator in domestic violence. This is given Andrea Michelle the opportunity to share music which coincides with the causes, and what she works with. Andrea Michelle along with group of Divino also works on giving the message of preserving culture faith and community. Most recently Andrea Michelle decided that she would like to embark on a solo endeavor. Within the past 2 years Andrea Michelle has been also preforming aside from Grupo Divino and has been able to perform for many prestigious Venues. Andrea Michelle will be releasing her very first Solo Cd in 2022. Andrea uses songs that speak to her and to women and in hopes that she can inspire and continue to lift women up especially in NM music.

GABRIELLA MARTINEZ NEW SINGLE NO HAY NADIE

Mar Records recording artist Gabriella Martinez is set to release her much anticipated original single, “No Hay Nadie.” “No Hay Nadie” is Gabriella’s first original lead single from her upcoming debut album that is set for release in May 2022. This is the first original song Gabriella performs and records that was produced and co-written with her for her debut album. 10

No Hay Nadie was written by Gabriella Martinez, Marissa Silva and Gerardo Alvarez. It was produced by Multi-Latin Grammy Award Nominee Gerardo Alvarez. The song is a beautiful ranchera that talks about finding her prince charming, making her feel like a princess and living her fairy tale love story. Gabriella Martinez is a Florida-raised, Texas based Latin singer debuting her first album with Mar Records.

MAY/JUNE ISSUE

IT COMES FROM THE SOUL

born in Laredo, TX and raised out of the small town of Zapata,TX., Andie is a Tejano, Mariachi, and Country music singer/songwriter/accordionist/violinist. From a very young age, Andie has aspired to be a music industry star. “My mother and father both play guitar and sing. At a young age, I realized I would pursue music when I picked up an instrument and learned how to play it solely by ear. Music has been a way of expressing myself and my most honest outlet.”

By the age of 14, Andie was already performing professionally and competing at the National Level with Award winning Mariachi Internacional of Texas A&M International UNIVERSITY. She has also received an honorary plaque that sits on INTOCABLE BLVD in Zapata, TX, which was presented to her by Mr. and Mrs. JOHNNY CANALES. Andie has had the honor of sharing the stage with legendary artists such as: Jimmy Gonzalez y Grupo MaZz, Ram Herrera, Yolanda Del Rio, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan, Roberto Pulido, and several others. 11

LA ANARQUIA has released its debut single “Aguanta Corazon” and is already in the studio working on completing its debut album. LA ANARQUIA will be releasing quality, authentic music that current fans have come to know and enjoy, while providing a new twist that will hopefully captivate the ears of new listeners and fans. We invite you all to follow La Anarquia on social media and join the band on its journey to take the Latin music scene on a wild ride!

Based out of Lubbock, Texas, LA ANARQUÍA is ready to hit the music scene by storm and bring quality music to its fans! LA ANARQUÍA was founded by Ezekiel “Zeke” Escobar, Jacob Garcia, and Jacinto Vela, all former longtimemembers of Grupo Peligro. They brought in tenured drummer Richard Guerra who has toured and recorded with numerous acts in the Tejano/Norteño scene. With several decades of combined professional experience, LA ANARQUIA is ready to take its talents, dedication, and passion for music to new heights. Having toured and performed all across the United States and Mexico, the members of LA ANARQUIA are excited for this new musical journey and cannot wait to share their music with the world! The band is wasting no time getting to work.

Facebook.com/LaAnarquiaOfficial Instagram.com/LaAnarquiaOfficial

12 A R T I S T S M A Y / J U N E 2 0 2 2

WWW.TEJANO-BACKSTAGE.COM

SMILEY ADOLFO

www.tejano-backstage.com

Smily Adolfo was born on January 20, 2000, in McAllen, Texas. At a young age, he showed his artistic skills in acting, singing, and playing different musical instruments such as piano, guitar, accordion, marimba, and percussions. In September of 2019, Smily Adolfo participated in the national program Tengo TalentoMucho Talento, based in Burbank, California. His participation in such a program now has over 9 million views on their Facebook page. In the summer of 2020, Smily Adolfo released his first music production in the mariachi genre titled “El Fruto de la Siembra promoting La Mentada. He wrote four of the nine songs including La Mentada, under Anval Music Publishing which is the Publishing company of Banda La Adictiva from Culiacan Sinaloa. Smily worked alongside music producer Pablo Perez who has worked with Grupo Control, Kumbia Kings and many others in the tejano and Mexican regional industry. Smily Adolfo took the opportunity to present his mariachi and tejano material from his first production to the capital of mariachi music, Guadalajara, Mexico. He was well-received by radio, press, TV stations like Televisa Guadalajara, TV Azteca Jalisco, Quiero TV,

Televisora Grupo Pacifico, and Internet TV programs like La Internacional TV, Radio Rola, and Conexión Grupera in which such program is recorded live in Botas Los Potrillos, store owned by the late Vicente Fernandez. Smily continued his promotion tour in Mexico City appearing in different TV shows and radio programs nationwide such as Mexico Canta y Encanta and Imagen Televisión. In 2021 Smily Adolfo continued writing and producing new songs in different styles that have not come out yet to the market. Nevertheless, his cumbia “Dime Que Te Aguitas” was well received by several radio stations in Texas, Tamaulipas, Mexico and other US cities. At the end of 2021 Smily traveled to Victoria Studios in Monterrey, Mexico to finish part of his new material that will come out this year. A prolific singer and an avid reader of the music industry Smily Adolfo decides to produce and release a country classic “I Cross My Heart” from the king of country music George Strait. Smily Adolfo incorporates bajo quinto and accordion instruments to this new version of “I Cross My Heart” to enhance the essence of his tejano roots. Smily Adolfo is a lifetime resident of Pharr, Texas and proudly represents the Rio Grande Valley whenever he has an opportunity to sing and perform. He is also a BMI member and owner of Acorde Secreto Publishing with McAllen Music Group. Smily Adolfo is now in alliance with Rosie Allison from RAP Promotions to continue distributing his upcoming singles and material such as “I Cross My Heart”.

13 MAY/JUNE 2022

Mi Cocina

Barbi Leo Salgado 14

TEJANO BACKSTAGE TEST KITCHEN

Let’s face it, the best TexAmex meal can be ruined with a bad salsa. There’s nothing worse than biting into a chip with salsa that is too sweet, too sour or with too little spice. Here we have assembled a few of the favorites of Barbi Leo Salgado from our test kitchen. The best part? They are all super easy to make. ENJOY!

MI COCINA

Creamy Avocado Salsa Ingredients 2 Avocados 1 Cup of Greek Yogurt Juice from 1 lime 1 clove of garlic 1/8 of an onion 1-2 jalapenos depending on the desired level of heat 1/4 bunch of cilantro Salt and pepper to taste 3 tablespoons of water you can add more if you want a thinner consistency Instructions Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. 15

MI COCINA

Fresh Pineapple Habanero Pico de Gallo 2 Plump tomatoes 1 Habanero (seeds removed) ½ cup finely chopped onion ⅓ cup chopped cilantro 1 cup diced pineapple ½ Tablespoon lime-juice Cilantro to taste Salt to taste Chop all ingredients and combine. That’s it! The secret here is using fresh pineapple and letting it sitin the fridge overnight to give all the flavors a chance to combine

Salsa Verde Cruda INGREDIENTS 1/2 pound tomatillos (5 or 6), husked, rinsed, and coarsely chopped 1/2 cup coarsely chopped cilantro 2 fresh jalapeño or serrano chiles, coarsely chopped (including seeds), or more to taste by 1 large garlic clove, peeled 2 tablespoons chopped white onion 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt PREPARATION 1. Put the tomatillos in a blender first, then add the remaining ingredients. Pulse a few times, then blend until the salsa is very smooth, at least 1 minute. Season to taste with additional chile and salt, and blend again.

Roasted Pepper Salsa

Ingredients 4 plum tomatoes (1 pound), cut in half, lengthwise 2 serrano chiles, stems removed 4 cloves garlic, peeled 1/4 small yellow onion, peeled 1/2 cup chopped cilantro 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 fresh lime Instructions 1. Turn your boiler to highest setting 2. Lightly spray a cast iron skillet. Place the tomatoes, chiles, garlic, and onion inside the skillet, and place under the broiler. Cook until garlic is roasted 6-10 min. Remove garlic and place into a blender 3. Return the remainkng ingredients to the oven and continue to cook until charred (blackened) 10-15 min. Remove ingredients from skillet and place into blender with garlic 4. Pour 1 cup of water into the skillet to remove roasted bits. Pour the water into the blender 5. Add fresh lime juice, cilantro and salt to taste

The Essentials of Record Promotions This year, I am celebrating my 40th year in the radio and music industry. I have not only witnessed the evolution of radio, but I have also witnessed the evolution of the music industry from the days of getting singles on vinyl via snail mail to today’s mp3 files which fill my email account.Even though many things have changed in the record promotion business, the basics still apply to the art of promoting music.

Communication is KEY! the EXCHANGE of information or news. That is NOT happening in the Tejano music industry today and is perhaps the biggest reason why artists are not getting the airplay they deserve. Emails with attached MP3’s are being sent with no follow up. Promotion requires a phone call and or a visit to verify that the programmer received the music. A great promoter will also get the programmer’s opinion of the track and ultimately make a case for why the song should be played on the airwaves.

Bo Leo Gonzalez VP Spanish Formats

Brand Manager – KMVK Dallas MAY/JUNE ISSUE WWW.TEJANO-BACKSTAGE.COM

Let’s start with the definition of communication:

Establishing relationships with programmers is also essential to effective record promotions. Relationships equal influence, and influence equals air play.

MAY/JUNE ISSUE WWW.TEJANO-BACKSTAGE.COM

In my 40 years of radio, I have had great lifelong relationships with record promoters from the biggest record labels in the world all the way down. I have often heard, programmers aren’t making the time or won’t return my calls.Therein lies the challenge. The best record promoters find a way to break down the barriers and create relationships beyond the records. I get hundreds of emails with new music in my inbox and finding the hits is like finding a needle in a haystack. Most songs won’t make it on the air for one reason or another, but the real tragedy is overlooking true hits that never get the exposure they deserve due to lack of basic promotion.

CLIENTS INCLUDE

TEJANO GOLD COUNTDOWN

July 2022

Artist Interviews from the Past Join TGC for our Summer Series with the best interviews from the past! Emilio Naivara, Laura Canales, Jimmy Gonzales, Bob Gallarza, Little Joe, Eloy Bernal, Isidro Lopez, Tony 'Ham' Guerrero, Steve Jordan, Jennifer Pena, Shelly Lares, Patsy Torres and MANY more!

LISTEN LISTEN LISTEN Known as the steward of Tejano, Rudy Trevino has been at the forefront of not only keeping Tejano alive, but furthering our music and culture for generations to come. Join TGC for this special Summer Series to kick off Rudy's eye opening book about the legends in the Tejano Music Industry. Nothing is held back in this upcoming book, giving you an inside look at what the legends really felt about our industry, and what they felt needed to happen to help it survive, In Their Own Words...

MANNY R. GUERRA

Spring Arbor

ORDER NOW

amenmusic.com

GET YOUR COPY TODAY!

FEATURE

Music That Matters The West Texas based and Two Time Tejano Music Awards winner Anjelique, along with Sweet City Band is excited to announce the release of their latest single, “Como Te Gusta”. The song lyrics reflect the issue of bullying, which is evident in the minor key of the music reflecting the challenges some people experience. This song really hits home for the people who struggled through the teenage years and about empowerment for a victim of bullying. Bullying comes in many forms. This song targets the peer pressure of having the looks that comes from social media and their peers. As the song progresses the bullied person, has a physical and emotional “glow up”. The song switches to a Major key and she is now saying how do you like me now, as she has blossomed into a beautiful person on the outside and inside. 28

May/June 2022 www.tejano-backstage.com

Zeravla Entertainment Sammy Alvarez Jr 325-242-4238 zeravla.entertainment@yahoo.com “Como Te Gusta” was written by Eddie Medrano, one of the original band members from Sweet City Band. The song was originally going to be released back on the debut album from 2002 but the song didn’t make the CD. It has now come full circle and has now found a place on this album. The song was produced by Jimmy Garcia, drummer for Sweet City Band and recorded at Studio 29, engineered by Isak A. The song was mixed and mastered by Eddie Perez producer and CEO from Key of E Music. “Como Te Gusta” is available on CDBABY, iTunes, Google Play, Amazon MP3, Spotify, and many other digital distributors as well as her official website www.anjeliquemusic.com. For more information on Anjelique: Website: www.anjeliquemusic.com Facebook: facebook.com/anjelique.sweetcityband Instagram: @anjeliquemusic Twitter: @anjeliquemusic You Tube Channel: @anjeliqueproductions

A Love Letter to My Parents

by Kary Karina

My parents Jose Guadalupe Castillon and Trinidad Castillon have been married for 51 years (50th Wedding anniversary on October 25, 2020). Their love for each other is an inspiration and a great example of commitment and true love to many. They both moved to Chicago, Illinois at a young age in hopes of pursuing a better future for themselves and their loved ones. My father left behind his loved ones in Piedras Negras, Coahuila and my mother left behind her family in Mexico City, D.F. Shortly after, they met at their job site and later married. Both my older brothers Jose G. Castillon Jr. and Daniel Castillon were born in Chicago and after a few years of my parents living in Chicago and starting their family, they decided to move to Eagle Pass, Texas (a border town with Piedras Negras) which is where I was born and raised. Their move brought my parents at a closer distance to visit with family. Some of my most memorable moments were traveling in our family van at least once or twice a year to Mexico City. Being surrounded by family always brings me so much joy and those are some of my most cherished moments I hold dear to my heart. I am extremely blessed to have such amazing parents in my life. I see what true love is through them and it makes my heart happy. I see perfection in both and I love them and appreciate them dearly. I LOVE YOU Mom and Dad.

Kary Karina Tejano Backstage Magazine May/June 2022

N O L L O R E

"This is my story.. My life.. The legacy I will leave behind.. Si se puede"

C H I N G O N !

AN AMERICAN STORY

The Life of Little Joe Written by International Award-Winning Author, Emma Gonzalez

AWARDS Most Inspirational Non-Fiction English Book Best Cover Photo Book to Movies Awards-1st Place Documentary Best Biography Finalist Best Family History English Book

BUY NOW

www.shoplittlejoe.com

SILENT & STRONG

LISA MORALES Lisa Morales Celebrates Mexican Roots on Cinco de Mayo with Spanish-Language EP: El Amor No Es Cobarde 36

s e l ora M a s i L

Sisters Morales Lisa and Roberta Morales

IN MEMORY OF

Betty Sullivan March 19, 1949- March 11, 2022

My Mother Kept A Garden My Mother kept a garden. A garden of the heart; She planted all the good things, That gave my life it's start. She turned me to the sunshine, And encouraged me to dream: Fostering and nurturing The seeds of self-esteem. And when the winds and rains came, She protected me enough; But not too much, she knew I'd need To stand up strong and tough. Her constant good example, Always taught me right from wrong; Markers for my pathway To last my whole life long. I am my Mother's garden, I am her legacy. And I hope today she feels the love, Reflected back from me.

WWW.TEJANO-BACKSTAGE.COM

Shelly Lares

by Kelly Trevino

Since announcing her retirement in April of last year, it’s no wonder Shelly Lares has started to reminisce about the last 40 years of her career. Stepping onto the Tejano Music Awards stage for the first time at only 10 years old is a memory that Shelly recalls vividly. Before performing with Latin Breed at the event, Shelly had only been on stage twice before, singing at family events. This time was much different. Imagine being only 10 years old and looking out on the crowd of close to 1,500 screaming Tejano music fans at the Henry B. González Convention Center. Not many would be able to walk into the spotlight, let alone perform!

Beside her backstage, stood the foundation of her world, Fernando (Fred) and Irene Lares, Shelly’s parents, and biggest fans. “You don’t have to go on if you don’t want to,” Shelly’s mom tells her. Hearing Shelly’s response gives some insight as to why she’s known as ‘Little Miss Dynamite,’ (a nickname given to her by her mom.) “No,” Shelly says. “I WANT to go on!” “I was nervous, but there was no way I wasn’t going to get on that stage.” And so began a forty-year journey, singing with amazing artists like Little Joe, Ruben Ramos, Jay Perez, and Vince Gill among others.

Tejano Backstage

Known for her love of collaboration, Shelly’s most notable alliance was formed with Elida Reyna and Stefani Montiel, earning them the title of LAS TRES DIVAS. Touring the United States, Japan, Guam, and Korea, the trio received a Grammy Nomination for their work as well as a Latin Grammy nomination for the cd of the same name. Collaborations have always been part of Shelly’s career, but since announcing her retirement, the phone is ringing constantly with requests to work with her. But that’s not Shelly’s sole focus. “It seems that ever since I announced my retirement, everyone is trying to fit me in for the colabs (sp) and then, of course, 2021 was great. We were very busy on the road. I did make a point for my final year of 2022 to NOT work as much on the road.”

Shelly goes on to say, “I’m only taking certain shows, certain venues. I made a conscious decision to do that.” One to set strict goals for herself, Shelly wanted her focus for her last year to be one that would leave a lasting mark in her wake. Focusing on writing and producing more music. “Thankfully I manifested my goals and I’m writing a lot, producing artists, and producing collaborations I’m doing with other artists. So, I’ve been very busy in the studio, writing and producing.” When we interviewed, Shelly had only done one show in 2022, but that did not mean she hadn’t been busy. In true Shelly fashion, she pokes fun at herself saying, “By the time I retire people are gonna be so sick and tired of me, their gonna be like- ‘Go Shelly! Just get out of here already!”

Everyone is calling for a collaboration But there are some offers that Shelly cannot turn down. She teases, “There’s one coming up and I want to say who it’s with, but I can’t yet. But trust me, it’s gonna be super amazing!” She can talk about collaborations with an artist from New Mexico, artist Adrian Solis, and a Christian collaboration with Genyva, something close to Shelly’s heart. Working on her Christian album, Shelly is also the one doing the asking for other artists to perform on her upcoming album. Busy is an understatement, but Shelly wouldn’t have it any other way. Matter of fact, had she not planned on doing so much in her last year, she wouldn’t be! Given the nickname, Little Miss Dynamite from her mother, Shelly is the poster child for doing what she wants, how she wants, and when she wants. Don’t underestimate her small stature. Shelly has been in the music business for forty years and she knows how to stand toe to toe with the strongest of them. Perhaps she was born with this attitude, but Shelly quickly gives credit to her parents, particularly her father Fred, for teaching her the music business. Shelly remembers, “The process of recording, now it’s a lot of cut and paste, autotune, and I came from an era where you had to get it right, and if not, you had to do it again.” Anyone that has paid for studio time understands that every mistake costs money. Shelly goes on, “But I am so glad I grew up in that time because it did mold me into the person I am. There’s no sense of entitlement. I feel like my father was absolutely right.” 44

Shelly recalls her father saying, “You have to work for what you want. It’s not going to mean anything to you Mija if they hand it to you. You may enjoy it at the moment, but later on, you’re going to realize, you really didn’t work for this.” Shelly remembers a story of when investors wanted to buy a bus for Shelly. The deal included all the equipment that would be needed. Shelly’s father explained to his heartbroken daughter why they couldn’t take the deal, “Nope. We are going to work for it. We are going to get our own bus and equipment because you’re NOT going to have to work for someone your whole life to pay them back.” As a young child, it was understandably difficult to understand but if the message was lost then, it wouldn’t be long until Shelly signed with Sony Records and she the message was clearCorporate America had to recoup their money. And they had to get paid back for everything they spent. “And that was enough for me to understand what my father had been talking about,” Shelly recalls. If there is a degree that can be earned from the studies of life backstage or on the road, then Shelly earned a doctorate in the past forty years, and her professors were her parents.

It seems only fitting that the release of this feature falls on the months that include Mother and Father’s Days. Shelly Lares’s parents were the foundation for her career. Not just parents cheering a child on from the sidelines, but active participants and protectors of everything involving their daughter. There was nothing they would do for their daughter, including closing their business to focus on Shelly’s career. “We didn’t know jack squat about the industry when my mother and father CLOSED their business to go on the road,” Shelly continues “this was something my father had been doing since he was a young boy. To go into something, he knew nothing about. I mean, that was their money, my mom and dad’s living, their engraving and rubber stamp company. When I signed with Manny (Guerra) he told them, the only way Shelly’s gonna make it is if she goes full-time.” Shelly’s mom and dad did not hesitate to support their daughter. Shelly tears up a bit as she remembers her parents saying, “Let’s go!” TEJANO BACKSTAGE

“That was a huge risk for them to take,” As Shelly recalls the memory now, you can see she can grasp the enormity of the risk her parents took on her. It’s understanding that her eyes move to the corner in the ceiling, offering her a moment to recover her thoughts. In true Shelly fashion, she overcomes the emotion quickly to add, “You know, I think that shows the faith that my parents had in me. They weren’t the type of parents that if I were singing offkey, they would say, Oh Mija, you sound so good,” Shelly giggles, “You know they were both musically inclined. Mama can sing, and daddy could sing and play instruments by ear. And my dad would tell me, you gotta work and practice on all kinds of music. They wanted me to be the best and I would do it over until I got it right.” Hard work was instilled in Shelly at an early age and her work ethic is beyond reproach. Even as she prepares for her exit from Tejano music, Shelly continues to release music and perfect her craft.

Shelly’s latest single, Porque Tu Eres Mi Carino, entered the TOP 20 on Tejano Gold Countdown on March 26th and moved quickly to rest in the #1 spot for three weeks *May 6, 2022. www-tejano-backstage.com

Porque Tu Eres Mi Carino holds a special place in Shelly’s heart for good reason, “I remember my parents writing this song. It was back in 1990, I was getting ready to release my third album, Sabes Que Si, and I was already working with J.J Reyes, who helped me in co-writing, arranging, you know, we were preparing songs. And we used to have a band room, we still do, at my parent’s house, and J.J used to leave his keyboard set up. I came home one day, and my dad was in the back room. I could hear him playing the song. And my dad was like, Mija, come here, I have a song.” Shelly remembers her dad playing the song on the keyboard. Shelly was instantly in love with the beautiful melody, and it wasn’t long before Shelly’s mom came in and wrote the lyrics to the song. 46

The song was placed on the Sabes Que Si, album, and Shelly recalls “I remember Manny Guerra, my first producer and he loved that song and that was huge. Manny Guerra is like Berry Gordy or the Clive Davis of our industry and he decided to put that on that third album.” Little did Shelly know that the song would come back in a very unexpected way. Shelly had no plans on putting Porque Tu Eres Mi Carino, on her final album, LMD82. She says, “I had another song that I was writing. For some reason, Sevy Contreras couldn’t figure out the chord progressions and I was like, It’s like this!” Having worked with J.J Reyes for years, Shelly was now having to rely on someone else for the first time in a very long time.

Sevy was now her hands since J.J had suffered a stroke during Covid. Shelly recalls leaving the studio to drive and clear her head. “That night I went home extremely frustrated,” Shelly remembers, “Well my father came to me in a dream, and said, ‘Mija, record Porque Tu Eres Mi Carino.’ And I remember telling my dad in my dream, ‘Dad, that song doesn’t have any brass.” Noting the fact that Shelly was implementing brass instruments on this album. Shelly says her dad was quick to respond in the dream, “So add the saxophone.”

Shelly was dumbfounded at the simplicity of it, “I was like, yeah!” The next day Shelly went back to the studio and told Sevy they were no longer doing the song they had planned, but would be working on Porque Tu Eres Carino, the song her parents had written. She then informed Sevy that her dad had come to her in a dream to tell her they would need to add the saxophone to the song. Sevy’s response? “Oh well we better listen to Mr. Lares or he’s gonna haunt me in my dreams!” To say the song holds a lot of emotion for Shelly is an understatement. Shelly recalls there was only one other time that affected her as much. “The only other time I got emotional was back when I recorded, Mil Besos, back in 2000. My father had JUST had a stroke. So when I was recording happy songs, I would go outside and I would cry. With this song (Porque Tu Eres Mi Carino), it was just me, Sevy and Tweet (Arthur Juarez) the accordion player. I could see the guys in the control room, and I was in the control booth. I started singing it and I just lost it. I could not sing. That had NEVER happened before. In the studio I am very focused, organized and I’m in work mode. But for some reason, it just caught me.” She continues, “There were so many emotions. My parents wrote it, my dad told me to record it and it’s my last album. I had so many things just flood through me.” Shelly has good reason to be proud that she completed the song and she’s very happy she was able to push through. She shares the moment when she shared it with her mom for the first time, “At first, she didn’t recognize it, because it was with the sax, but as soon as I started singing the words, she lost it. We were in the car, and I started crying too. All my mom could say was, It’s beautiful… through her tears. It was a moment that I will never forget.” Another reason the video will be extra special to not only Shelly and her family, but to her fans. “The video is not fancy-smanchie, or a highly produced song. It’s just about love. And it came from my mom and dad, so what more could I ask for?” It’s another reason Shelly used a picture of her parents for the promotion of the song. A picture that Shelly had never seen before. “They used to go out on the weekends with my dad’s brothers, dancing. I had never seen that picture of my parents. My brother sent it to me while I was at the gym. I had asked my siblings to send me pictures. So there I am in the gym when I start getting all these pictures sent to me and I’m there crying again in the gym! I had to go to the locker room and everyone is in their chonis and I’m bawling,” Shelly laughs.

SHELLY LARES

TEJANO BACKSTAGE

If you haven’t noticed, there’s a common thread in the stories about Shelly Lares, she loves those around her deeply. And that love extends to her best friend, supporter and partner, Mia Gutierrez. “Mia came into my life right after I started showing myself, self-love.” She goes on to explain, “When I finally put myself first, she came into my life. I had always had the misconception that I needed to love someone. Before, I was ok with them not giving love back to me. I knew deep down inside I wanted it, but I never fought for it.” Shelly has often joked about her personalities, Shelly and Shell. “At one point Shelly and Shell were night and day,” she explains “Shelly doesn’t take anything. When it comes to the business, Shelly is adamant, Shelly is

strong, and she is firm and focused. But the Shell

I want her to fulfill her dreams just as much as she

side of me was, I hate to say, a pushover. That side of

wants me to fulfill mine. We are still individuals, and

me wouldn’t allow myself to say, Hey, I’m worth

I don’t think anyone should put their dreams on hold

something here. I’m giving you my heart and soul,

for another person.” The love and respect that Shelly

and I’m not getting it back.” Today, Shell and Shelly

and Mia share, have given Shelly a moment to step

have molded into a force to be reckoned with, and

back and look at her future and what that looks like

know exactly what they want, including love, which

after retirement.

Shelly has found in Mia. “To me, she says, Love

“People are still trying to book me for 2023 and I’m

doesn’t hurt. People hurt people, but love doesn’t

like, no, I’m retiring!” Shelly laughs but there’s a

hurt. So, when Mia came into my life, I had to get

seriousness to it as well, “I guess they don’t believe

used to someone really wanting to do for me from

me, ya know? I mean, I get it. We’ve seen people that

their heart. At first, it was very awkward. Even her

say they are going to retire and then don’t. But if you

just serving me or doing little things. I was always

know me, I say what I mean and I mean what I say. If

the one doing the laundry, cleaning the house,

I have a goal in mind, I’m gonna do what I gotta do

everything. Then having Mia want to do for me, was

to get it. That’s just the person I am. And if I go into

different for me.” Meeting after Mia filled in for a

something I’m going in with 150% not just give it

makeup artist that couldn’t make it was nothing

25% of me. People are misinterpreting my not being

short of a Godsend. Shelly is grounded enough today

involved in music or the industry. I’m just not going

to say, “Mia doesn’t make me happy. Mia ADDS to my

to record any more Tejano albums for myself, and

happiness. We are happy individually, but we are

I’m not going to be on the road. I’ll be more behind

HAPPIER when we are together. I have never, ever,

the scenes, on the sidelines. One day I hope to have

ever been with anyone that it was just effortless to

my own team and my own (record) label. That was a

be together. All we do is laugh and support each

conscious decision I made when I started Shell

other and push each other to be better.

Shock Records. I eventually wanted to sign artists.

SHELLY LARES

First, it was for me. I was tired of making money for

Unfortunately, the ceremony was well over six hours,

other people, secondly, I didn’t know where my

and Shelly’s father, who had already suffered a

music was being distributed and I didn’t know that

stroke at that time, went back to the hotel to rest

whole process. I’ve learned about manufacturing

and did not get to see Shelly receive the award, but

and distribution, mechanical royalties, and all these

Shelly says, “I’ll never forget the moment that they

things.” Shelly wants to make sure that when she

handed me that award. I was the youngest inductee

does start signing artists, eventually that she will be

at that time too, so it was a great, great feeling.”

able to give them that 150% she speaks of, “How

Shelly has had quite a few memorable moments in

would I sign an artist while being an artist myself? I

her career. She talks about the time she had the

wouldn’t be able to give them the focus they need if

chance to meet Little Joe when she was just 10 years

I were still in the business. “I know what it’s like to be

old, Joe told her, “You sure have a big voice. And your

signed and shelved. I wouldn’t want to do that to

tiny!” Shelly responded, “You’re tiny, too!” Or some of

another artist.” Again, this is at the core of everything

her favorite memories of her dear friend, Selena. Two

Shelly does, and she cares deeply and is always

teenagers, laughing, and sharing secrets at the T-

willing to help her fellow artists.

heads in Corpus Christi, or walking the Riverwalk,

Known in the Tejano music industry as a mentor and

talking about dreams. Some dreams would come to

coach, the name Shoda was given to her by Demmi

be seen. Others would be cut short much too soon.

Garcia, (from Yoda the wise.) Demmi collaborated

But one thing is for sure, every conversation and

with Shelly on the song Nada De Ti, along with Sonja

those Shelly love will live in her heart forever.

De La Paz, who calls Shelly the Dr. Drey of Tejano

Spending time with Shelly Lares you realize you

music. It’s no wonder that Shelly is going into a field

could talk with her for hours, (which we have done

that is made up of caring individuals- Nursing.

on more than one occasion) listening to the stories

Something Shelly has always had a passion for.

of her life in Tejano music. Everything couldn’t be

Although Shelly is preparing for the long hours

written here, but not to worry, a future

ahead while getting her degree, these days, Shelly

autobiography is on Shelly’s list of items to finish

finds herself reminiscing about the past and the

after retirement. I mean, after all, we had to leave

moments that have made up the last 40 years.

something for Shelly to do after she retires!

“I have so many wonderful memories. One of my favorites was when I was inducted into the Tejano

ROOTS Hall of Fame, in my 25th year, in 2008.” Shelly recalls. Although she had many opportunities to leave the Tejano music genre, she never even thought of leaving. “I set out to do Tejano. I never wanted to leave Tejano. I ventured out into other musical genres, but I never once had a desire to leave Tejano music. So, receiving this award was really special to me.” .

ly i m Fa

addy

Daddy & Shelly Selena & Shelly

& ena l e S

y ell Sh

E mili o& She lly

Add a little bit of body text

GOVERNMENT

WORKING TO PROTECT ARTISTS MUSIC

House Bill 3836 In a press release issued earlier this year, Rep. Todd Hunter filed legislation to help protect musicians’ work from piracy. The legislation is the latest step in Rep. Hunter’s efforts to support the Coastal Bend music community and help it continue to grow. House Bill 3836 will require websites that disseminate music or videos to disclose their contact information on their sites so that consumers will know whom to contact if there is an issue with content or payment for the content. The legislation would provide protection for consumers and artists against sites that do not have licenses for the work they distribute. “This legislation will help protect musicians and other artists from those who improperly disseminate their work,” Rep. Hunter said. “The bill will also provide transparency for consumers who want to get content from legitimate sources.” Rep. Hunter recently formed a Music Task Force consisting of leaders from the Coastal Bend music industry and the business community. The Music Task Force provides ideas and input on ways to foster the continued growth of the music industry in the region. Rep. Hunter and Del Mar College hosted a virtual forum on March 31 to highlight House Bill 3836 and other issues impacting the Texas music industry. Texas leaders from the Recording Academy, the world’s leading society of music professionals, offered their perspective during the forum and highlighted their advocacy efforts during the ongoing legislative session, which began in January and will last until the end of May. “Texas music is a vital part of our lives, our culture and our economy,” Rep. Hunter said. “The COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for musicians and for the millions of Texans who love to listen to live performances. The Coastal Bend loves live music and is extremely proud of our long musical tradition.” About Rep. Todd Hunter Todd Hunter is the state representative for Texas House District 32 in Nueces County, TX. He is the Chairman of the House Redistricting Committee. He is also a member of the State Affairs Committee, which deals with significant matters of state policy, ranging from the administration of the state government to cybersecurity, and he sits on the International Relations & Economic Development Committee.

OPINION

TEJANO BACKSTAGE

THERE IS ROOM AT THE TABLE FOR EVERYONE

It seems like everyday there is a new chart, award show or countdown on the music scene. Because there are so many, it can be difficult to decide which one's have the credibility or not, especially for such a small musical genre. I hope to shed some light on why we need to support the one's that are doing it right and start putting fire to the feet of those that do not. Hear me out, I'm not talking about a chart or awards show that is transparent in how they select nominations for an award or countdown. I'm talking about how we have to stop promoting organizations or individuals that do not have standards on how things are done. Take for example, Rudy Trevino's Tejano Gold Countdown Top 20. This is the premiere countdown in the industry for good reason. TGC was created with the help of Disney Radio, at the height of Tejano music's popularity. Disney approached Mr.Trevino, with an idea to create a nationally syndicated radio program for Tejano, which had never been done before. This was not done lightly. Together, Rudy and Disney Radio executives created a program worthy of praise from American Top 40's Casey Kasem, who congratulated Rudy on his success. The standard was set in 1995 and continues to this day.

BY CAITLIN RUIZ Booking Agent

Has Tejano Gold Countdown, become the standard in the Tejano music industry? Yes, it has, but that's not to say there is not room at the table for other countdowns. Although the making of the chart is comepletly different, using votes from fans to make the list, charts like Mas Chingon, are using their platform to promote artists that otherwise would not be heard. Given the enormity of the overall latin music industry and the small portion that Tejano shares, promoting new music and artists is only a benefit to our industry. If it is done correctly. That said, we have to start holding charts, awards and countdown's accountable for the quality of music and artists they promote. If an organization is not transparent on the results, promotes inferior material, or is inconsistent, then we need to ask why we are promoting them and sharing them on social media. Bottom line, countdowns and awards are beneficial to promoting our music. But we have to stop bickering about which one is best. Most are very good for what they do. TGC highlights the best music in the industy. The list is difficult to make because it is made up from data collected from reporting stations & metrics in the industry. Making the Mas Chingon list helps new artist material get played by having listeners vote on what they like best and making the list can help artist eventually make the TGC Top 20. Both lists use superior graphics, are transparent and have a primary goal of getting more air-play & bookings for Tejano artists. One is not better than the other, they just sit at different seats. There is room at the table, but those wanting a seat, need to make sure they have the credability to sit with them.

Q PRODUCTIONS THE OFFICIAL STORE

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A Father's Dream: My Family's Journey in Music chronicles the life of a musician, performer, man of God, and successful Mexican-American entrepreneur. This story takes the reader on the journey of his life, a life that reflects the up and down experiences of a self-made success. With a raw emotion and honesty, he shares the twists and turns of a road many readers may have been forced to travel and a few others hope never to traverse. From the sublime joys of fatherhood, to the accomplishment of creating a musical empire and surviving its failures, he shares the unexpected life events that make up each of our lives. Every reader will gain a stronger sense of humanity and a deeper understanding of just how precious and fleeting life can be from reading this memoir.

El sueño de un padre: La travesía de mi familia en la música narra la vida de un músico, intérprete, hombre de Dios y exitoso empresario mexicano-estadounidense. Esta historia lleva al lector por el viaje de su vida, una vida que refleja las experiencias positivas y negativas de un éxito hecho a sí mismo. Con una emoción cruda y honestidad, comparte los giros y vueltas de un camino que muchos lectores pueden haberse visto obligados a viajar y algunos otros esperan no atravesar nunca. Desde las sublimes alegrías de la paternidad, hasta el logro de crear un imperio musical y sobrevivir a sus fracasos, comparte los acontecimientos inesperados de la vida que conforman cada una de nuestras vidas. Cada lector obtendrá un sentido más fuerte de humanidad y una comprensión más profunda de cuán preciosa y fugaz puede ser la vida al leer estas memorias.

BASTARD SONS OF JOHNNY CASH TEXAS COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT

PUTTING COUNTRY BACK INTO COUNTRY BY KELLY TREVINO Sitting down with Mark Stuart, it feels like I'm catching up with an old friend. Throughout the interview, I have to remind myself I'm here to do a job. It can be easy to forget it's a job when you find a kindred spirit in music. Our conversation went from where he would be taking his mom to lunch, to Mark spending time with country music legend, Johnny Cash, or simply John to Mark. You do know you are talking about an icon, right? I say when he first refers to 'John." "I know," Mark laughs, "But he was John R. Cash to me. He gave me a lot of advice through the years and he was a good friend." The conversation takes my mind back to one of the moments that would shape my life. No older than 3 or 4, watching my aunt and uncle dance in their kitchen to Johnny Cash playing on the old record player they kept in the corner of the kitchen. My aunt still in her curlers and robe, leaning her head back as she laughs with joy and swirls around the floor in her pink robe and slippers. To say the memory made a lasting impact would be an understatement. To now be interviewing the man that Johnny Cash allowed to use his name, was somehow symbolic. How in the world did you get Johnny Cash to allow you to use his name for the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, I blurt out. "Well.. that's a funny story!" Mark giggles at the memory, " The way it happened was kinda crazy actually." Oh, do tell! "We had been playing out in California under the name of the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, and we had started to get some attention,

T E J A N 0 - B A C K S T A G E . C O M

IT WASN'T LONG BEFORE JOHNNY CASH

offered Mark and the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, tickets to come see him play at The House of Blues in Los Angeles. After the show, the band got to meet their idol and band namesake, backstage. "That was amazing," he says, "I was able to meet with John, and he gave us permission to use the name- Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash." It wasn't long after, that Mark and the band got the record deal, started out on the road, and began laying down tracks for their first album, "Walk Alone," (1999). Soon the band was playing at the Historic Exit/In on the infamous 'Rock Block' in Nashville, alongside the Del McCoury Band. One night after a show, John Carter Cash (JCC), who had been backstage, asked Mark if the band would like to come over to the house and record some songs? It goes without saying, this was a pivital moment

Mark doesn't even try to act like he remained calm, " At

. in the band's career and it wasn't lost on Mark,

the time, I could barely breathe I was so excited! I don't

who was seeing his vision coming to life. In true

know if you've ever seen that movie with Kevin Costner,

Johnny Cash fan fashion, Mark could not contain

Field of Dreams, but it was like that." Mark whispers, "If

his excitement and responded to Johnny's son

you build it, he will come.." "It felt like one of those

with, "You mean, like at your dad's house? You

miracles, like you can't just write a letter and put it

mean the Cash Estate on Old Hickory Lane?" JCC

around a cassette tape, give it to one of the biggest

answered, "Yeah, we've got a really cool

stars in the world,

recording studio." (Just a humble home, that recorded some of the greatest songs in history.) Without hesitation, the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, canceled their upcoming shows and spent the next three days recording at the Cash Cabin. Being such a huge fan of Johnny Cash, it's difficult for me to hide my little girl excitement and have to ask Mark, "You sound like you handled it pretty cool, but what was really going

and have him call you at your house. It just doesn't work like that! But it did.." When I respond that it sounds like a movie, Mark chuckles, "It should be. It really should be!" Mark doesn't take what happened to him lightly and receiving such a strong and personal endorsement from Johnny Cash, he feels a certain obligation to not let his idol down, saying "I think when anyone, but especially someone you respect supports what you're doing, you have to keep your standards high, your integrity high

on inside?"

and really try to put your best foot forward and work with the best people you can." The Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, are celebrating their

If you Bu ild it...

twenty-fifth year in country music this year snf Mark still can't believe it, "But then, I look at Asleep at the Wheel, and they're celebrating their 50th anniversary, so then I think it is possible." "I honestly didn't think that when I came up wtth the name, that 25 years later we would still be around, still viable, making new sounds and new music, which we are really excited about!"

T E J A N O - B A C K S T A G E . C O M

Soon the conversation leads to Tejano music and its close relationship to country music, especially Texas country. Both styles of music have deep roots. I ask Mark, how tricky is it to navigate the slippery slope of creating a new sound without disrespecting the legends from our past? "Maybe I have enough 80's music in the cue along with rock n' roll, that it just seems to blend itself together, I don't know!" "I mean, I listen to everything and I think that helps. I just mix a little of everything and it sounds fresh, while still being familiar I guess." Mark's iTunes account is all over the map he says, "Of course it's got Dwight Yokum and The Maverick's, John Hiatt, The Flatlander's. Then it will go into Frank Sinatra, Dave Brubeck, just good good songs, really." The conversation includes why we think one genre has been applauded for creating new sounds while the other faces criticism at times for doing something new or different. Not able to solve the mystery, I come up with my own theory; Many legends in country music are not shy when it comes to their endorsement of up and coming artists. The WANT the music to evolve and have a fresh sound. If the music sounds just like the music they recorded years before, it becomes stagnant. That's not to say, we can take it so far from the genre's sound that we lose the reason it became popular in the first place. Much like what has happened in TOP 40 Country Music. But that's another topicBack to the conversation with Mark! "You know I listen to everyting, but rarely do I listen to the top 40 stuff in country," stating, "I only listen to the older style country. I hear them on the radio and I think, If there's one more truck or farm reference! There's got to be a way to make fun, intelligent country music that sounds like it's from the eart and from regular class working people." I'm right there with Mark, and tell him, "Sometimes it's hard to find the country in Country." Mark laugh's and says, "That's great! I hope you came up with that, because that's genius." "People always ask me to describe our music. I tell them it's music for people that don't like country music. Their only exposure to country is Top 40 country radio," Mark says. The same argument could be made for Tejano music and the changes it is going through. When you look back at the songs that created the sound that would eventually be called Tejano, it can be difficult to hear them both as the same musical genre.

Ranked at #9 on the Texas Monthly, 100 Best Texas Songs, Little Joe Y La Familia's, big-band ranchera, 'Las Nubes,' is an example. To hear Little Joe's heartbreak and despair in Las Nubes- Praying to the clouds above him, asking for rain & hopeful renewal of his soul, is a far cry from some of the new sounds in today's Tejano music. Looking at Tejano and Texas country music, the parallels are stiking. One generation saying a song isn't Tejano enough while another generation is wanting to pay homage to their roots, but wants to create something new & fresh. That's not to say there isn't a place for all forms, you can see their is room for both when you listen to the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash. Mark Stuart's vision of promoting the music he loved without making it sound old is a great example of how it can be done. Music makers like Mark Stuart have found a key to unclock a viable audience that affords its band members a very comfortable living without losing their musical roots or having to work two jobs. Mark is honest in how difficult it has been to survive as long as he has or in what it means to him to have the support of not only his fans, but the Country Legends that have not only supported him over the years, but people he has shared the stage with, Johnny Cash (of course), Willie Nelson, Mearle Haggard, Buck Owens, the list goes on and on. Mark says there are times even he finds it all hard to believe, "I know that for an artist or band to survive or have any longevity at all, is incredibly difficult. I feel extremely lucky, and so blessed that I can tour around the country. I know that we're not huge but when we go to places and play, we see really passionate fans for what we do." Rolling Stone described the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash as "pure Americana heart and soul," the New York Post said, (Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash) “Makes you remember why you liked Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings and Marty Robbins." Billboard agreed stating, the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, “Captures the lonesomeness of Cash, the strippeddown melodies of Nebraska-era Bruce Springsteen, the rowdiness of Steve Earle and morphs them into a captivating collection that blends twang and sophistication.” But at the end of the day, talking to Mark Stuart, you realize, it isn't about the accolades. Mark Stuart plays the music he loves, for the people who love it. And if you don't? Well, he doesn'r really care. Maybe that's what Mr. Cash liked most about him. Mark may have remonded him a bit of himself, a rebel, willing to take chances, and do it his way. I think Mr. Cash is proud that he had a part in the Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, but even more proud that they continue to make music their own way!

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