Nashville music industry leaders attended the International Country Music Conference held at Colombia A Studio in downtown Nashville, with the goal of integrating more Latino artists into the Country and Americana genres. Greg Reish, professor at MTSU, moderated the discussion, while panelist Rick Rodriguez and Orlando Mendez, a Nashville Country artist, participated and performed a couple of original songs for the audience.
Latino culture has long influenced Country music, from the music itself to the wardrobe and myths surrounding it. Discussed were the contributions of Latino artists, the role of language, and the impact of various regional styles on the evolving sound of Country music.
Spearheading this initiative is Rick Rodriguez, who has been in the Nashville music business for over 20 years and is the founder of La Cara Productions, which handles management, artist development, consultation, and production. He also serves as VP of Operations for Mono Mundo B, a record label founded by Raul Malo, lead singer of the Grammy Award-winning band The Mavericks. Rick is a change-maker who bridges Latin American music, culture, and lifestyle with the rest of the world. By creating innovative partnerships and staying engaged with the Latino community, he aims to bring Latin American artists to the forefront of the Country and Americana markets. He is a graduate of MTSU’s Recording Industry program.
TBT: Ruben Vela, born on March 2, 1937, in San Benito, Texas, was a pioneering accordionist who helped shape the conjunto music genre. Known for his unique accordion style and innovative rhythms, Ruben’s hits include “El Coco Rayado” and “La Papaya.” He passed away on March 9, 2010.
#ConjuntoLegend#RubenVela#ElCocoRayado#SanBenitoTx
With my Hohner Germany colleagues in Trossingen. From left to right: Stephan Weiland, International Sales; Petra Zellmer, Research and Development; and Knut Hoyer, Head of R & D.
#Hohner 🇩🇪
#Trossingen#HohnerTeam#Alemania#BestCerveza
Nashville artist Hohner endorsee, Jeff Taylor, recently tested the new Hohner Bravo MyColor piano accordion. This model features 34 treble keys, 72 basses, and 5 registers, and is available in 10 unique colors.
#JeffTaylor#HohnerMyColor#Hohner#MyColor#PianoAccordion
While staying in East San Antonio, I stumbled upon a fantastic diner called Panchos & Gringos. The food and service were excellent. If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and say hello to the owner, Sergio.
#Panchos &Gringos
#SanAntonioTx
