Local Tucson Musicians

Wednesday, 28 October 2009 17:24

Music remains the universal language that can bring people togther from any culture. Many border towns have rich cultural music backgrounds that allow everyone to enjoy the unique sounds created. Tucson, while being a rather small city, has an extremely full music scene, especially in regards to Spanish-infuenced bands and singer-songwriters. Therefore, a list has been compiled of the different bands that have roots in Tucson who play a variety of Spanish and Latin music. Also, a list of music venues in Tucson has been created, so that some of these artists can be viewed in thier natural habitats.

Calexico

Calexico is by far Tucson's most successful band. The band which consits of many members, but always, Joey Burns and John Convertino has a rock sound, but also incorporates mariachi and tejano music styles. They tour all over the world now, but they always come back to Tucson to play where they formed.

Mariachi Cielo De Mexico

These mariachi performers from Tucson have earned the title of being Arizona's premiere Mariachi band and made their debut appearnce at the Mariachi USA in Hollywood California and performed for about 20,000 people at the world famous hollywood bowl.

Descarga

This band may shrink down into many different forms such as an eight piece salsa band, a Latin jazz quartet or a small instrumental group that plays jazz standards. However, the total band consists of three vocalists, a three-piece horn section, two percussionists, piano and bass. They play contemporary salsa music at El Parador, a Latin music venue here in Tucson.

Spirit Familia

Spirit Familia plays an eclectic mix of Latin, Reggae, Funk, and World elements. They often change up their performers but I have seen as many as twelve people on stage playing. Very up-beat, get up and dance music that can often be seen at the Hut or at Club Congress.

Sentido

Traditional Spanish guitars mix with more modern drum and vocals that revolve around many different emotions. Common underlying beats sound similar to reggae.

Batucaxe

A drum and dance ensemble and school in Tucson, Arizona. Inspired by the music of Brazil, Batucaxe (pronounced bah-too-cah-SHEH) features the music of many traditions, from Brazil and all over the world. The group consists of 50 or more community members who perform at festivals, fairs and events all over Tucson.

Domingo DeGrazia

Born and raised in Tucson, this musician, of the late local artist, Ted DeGrazia blends Spanish guitar with the passionate and rhythmic styles of Flamenco guitar techniques. Flavors from Latin, Salsa and rock beats are also incorporated into his musical style.

Venues to Check out:

The Rialto

One of Tucson's most popular and historical venues for musicians from all over the country and world, including many larger local performers. Many big names come through here that appreciate a more intimate setting.

Club Congress

Showcases local and regional music that is cutting edge and experimental and also has a dance club on certain nights. Has the old-style western saloon bars in both the "tap room" and main bar.

The Hut

A Hawaiian themed tikki styled bar that features local musicians with a wide range of musical genres including rockabilly, Spanish-influenced, progressive rock, reggae, blues and jazz.

Plush

This venue books talented local, regional, and national touring acts 5-7 nights a week and has a comfy lounge vibe with elegant lighting in both the front room and  back stage.

Solar Culture

A non-profit venue which focuses on art and has a venue setting where national and international artists perform. Plus, you bring your own alcohol.

The Red Room, in the Grill

A low-key area set up for bands in the bar section, reminsicent to a cafe setting, of the Grill, a historical restaurant located in the heart of downtown Tucson.

The Surly Wench Pub

Once thought to be a lesbian bar, everyone and anyone comes here to enjoy burlesque shows, punk and rockabilly genre bands and of course, the hand-made cocktails.

Skrappy's

Once the gritty center-point for hardcore live performances, this venue has been on hiatus for booking bands but has remained a youth community offering many after school activities. Now, Skrappy's is ready to book new bands again.

The Rock

The ROCK is only an "Event Rental Venue" and not open on a regular basis where tickets are sold the day of the show. It caters to hardcore rock, punk and heavy metal genres.

Vaudville Cabaret

This venue boasts that it is Tucson's only punk rock bar. It is right next to the Grill in downtown and has excellent sound for the many musicians that perform.

Casa Vicente, Spanish Restaurant

A traditional Spanish restaurant that features many local, national and international performers in flamenco, tango and other Spanish-related dances and songs. Held the first ever flamenco festival in Tucson.

El Parador

Decorated in tropical undertones, this restaurant and bar has dance floors and experienced instructors to teach people how to dance the tango or salsa. Many bands perform here, including Descarga.

La Fuente

A traditional Mexican restaurant that has special events and  musical entertainment from Mariachi Estrellas de La Fuente and Ruben Allard (La Fuente's solo guitarist).

Written by Emily Jones You are reading Local Tucson Musicians articles