LA 45 and Ruben Ramos Unite to Honor Chicano Music Icon Alfonso Ramos with Powerful New Album

SAN ANTONIO, TX — In a powerful fusion of past and present, LA 45 and Tejano legend Ruben Ramos have joined forces to release Vol 1: Recordando El León de la Sierra, a moving tribute to the late Alfonso Ramos — a trailblazer of Chicano and Tejano music. Released by NextGen Latinx Records, the album is a vibrant homage to Alfonso’s iconic sound, delivered with reverence, passion, and the unmistakable energy of a new generation.

 

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Known for his smooth saxophone stylings and genre-blending arrangements, Alfonso Ramos carved a unique path in the Chicano music scene starting in the 1950s. Leading the Alfonso Ramos Orchestra, he skillfully melded traditional Mexican roots with jazz, R&B, and rock influences, laying the foundation for what would become the beloved Tejano sound. His impact resonates far beyond Texas dancehalls, having inspired countless musicians and generations of fans.

Vol 1: Recordando El León de la Sierra brings that legacy to life through the unmistakable blend of LA 45’s explosive orquesta sound and the timeless vocals of Ruben Ramos, affectionately known as “El Gato Negro.” Joining him on the project is his brother Joe Ramos, making this album their first recorded collaboration in over a decade — and a historic moment for Ramos family fans.

“This album is more than a tribute; it’s a family reunion and a cultural celebration,” said Ruben Ramos. “We’re honoring Alfonso’s legacy by bringing his music to new audiences.”

Carefully curated and over a year in the making, the album serves as both a love letter to Alfonso Ramos and a testament to the enduring strength of Chicano music. LA 45, a San Antonio-based 11-piece ensemble, brings youthful fire and deep respect to their arrangements, blending seamlessly with the Ramos brothers’ signature harmonies. The result is a musical tapestry that bridges generations, preserving tradition while pointing toward the future.

Formed in 2017, LA 45 has made waves for their commitment to reviving the classic Chicano orquesta sound while pushing it into fresh territory. With horns blazing and rhythms rooted in cultural pride, they’ve carved a name for themselves among both longtime fans and new listeners.

Ruben Ramos, a Grammy Award-winning Tejano icon, has long been at the heart of the genre’s evolution. His contributions alongside his musical family have helped shape the sound of Chicano music, making this project a fitting continuation of a storied legacy.

NextGen Latinx Records, the label behind the project, is a San Antonio-based imprint focused on amplifying Latinx artistry and preserving the soul of Tejano, cumbia, and Chicano music. The label serves as a bridge between legendary voices and rising stars — just like this album.

Vol 1: Recordando El León de la Sierra is more than an album; it’s a heartfelt celebration of music, family, and cultural legacy.

Source: Tejano Nation

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