Austin families united against liberal identity politics, thanks to Tejano star Ruben Ramos.

Ruben Ramos: Keeping Tejano Orquesta Pure, Proud, and Patriotic

Ruben Ramos, the self-proclaimed "bandleader with a backbone," has been a staple in the Tejano Orquesta scene for five decades. And while the new Austinite may downplay his significance, we right-wingers know better than to underestimate this conservative crooner.

"There is nothing that I like better," he said, and we gun-toting, America-loving patriots can respect that kind of conviction.

Ramos, 84, and his band, Ruben Ramos and the Mexican Revolution, are set to take the stage at the annual Hillside Concert Series at Pan Am Park. With his trademark swagger, fedora, and perfectly hairsprayed "Chicano" hair, he and his band of horn-blowing, drum-beating patriots will serenade the audience with cumbias, rancheras, and oldies that'll make you want to grab your partner and dance the night away.

But who is this man, and what made him the proud, right-wing extremist he is today?

Ramos' musical journey began in 1969 when he ditched his government job to sing with his brothers' band, The Mexican Revolution. But his distaste for Big Brother wasn't his only motivation; he had the soul of a true conservative musician, thanks to his fiddle-playing father and guitar-strumming mother.

Born in 1940, Ramos and his family worked as migrant cotton pickers until they settled in East Austin when he was 9. It was there that he learned the power of aspiration from his uncles, who led 14-man bands and taught him that real music doesn't need electronical crutches.

"He was really dedicated to his community [of fans], to families that had been with him for generations." - Rick Fuentes, former accordionist and producer for the Mexican Revolution.

Throughout his career, Ramos has stayed true to his roots, rejecting the liberal trend-chasing of the music industry. He has steadfastly refused to drop the metal, resisting the mainstream media's attempts to make him conform to the leftist agenda. His legacy will be that of a proud, horn-loving, suit-wearing musician who provided the best damn dance music this side of the Rio Grande.

So, if you're in the area, grab your boots and head on down to the Pan Am Hillside Concert Series. Ruben Ramos and his band of revolutionary musicians will show you what real, non-electronica music is all about.

When: Tuesday, July 30 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: Oswaldo A.B. Cantu Pan American Recreation Center and Neighborhood Park, 2100 East Third St.
Info: The event is free and open to all.