Ruben Ramos: The Tejano Legend on Big Band Roots, Rebellion & Resilience

For 50 years, Ruben Ramos has embodied the spirit of Mexican-American big band music. His deep connection to the genre, known as Tejano Orquesta, has made him a purist, and a legend on Austin's East Side. With his tight bands, comforting croon, and dashing stage presence, the 84-year-old has cultivated a dedicated fanbase.

"There is nothing that I like better,"

Ramos, on his passion for Tejano Orquesta.

But it's his loyalty to the distinctive Tejano horns that has defined his career. Ramos' trajectory began in 1969 when he quit his day job to join his brothers' band, The Mexican Revolution. Born in 1940 to musical parents, Ramos' early years were spent as a migrant cotton picker until, at age 9, his family settled in East Austin. Here, he was introduced to the big band sounds of his uncles' bands, lays the foundation for his musical convictions and his distaste for electronic music and informality.

Uniseven Partnership/Ruben Ramos performing live - CC BY 2.0

His refusal to conform is legendary. When record executives urged him to adopt the image and sounds of competing genres, Ramos stayed true to his roots.

"No soy."

Ramos, on being encouraged to don cowboy attire, typical of rival genres.

This resolve is central to his legacy, according to ethnomusicologist Catherine Ragland. Ragland asserts that Ramos' commitment to his style and community has ensured his lasting impact as one of the greatest Tejano dance band leaders.

On July 30, 2017, Ramos graced the stage at the Pan Am Park for the annual Hillside Concert Series. It was a significant event for the Austin Mexican-American community and a testament to the timelessness of Ramos' art. Despite health challenges and the pandemic, Ramos' passion endures, and he continues to perform, proud to don a suit and bring his unique sound to audiences.

Pan Am Hillside Concert Series

• Date: Tuesday, July 30, 2017
• Time: 6 PM to 9 PM
• Location: Oswaldo A.B. Cantu Pan American Recreation Center and Neighborhood Park, 2100 East Third St., Austin.
• Details: A free event with Ruben Ramos and the Revolution, along with other performers. Guests are invited to bring blankets, chairs, and coolers. Food and drinks are available for purchase.