Que Viva Lalo Guerrero

(Luis Rodriguez, editor of Xispas Magazine and cofounder of Tia Chucha's Cafe Cultural, wrote the following eulogy)

When Lalo Guerrero--the octogenarian musician, singer, songwriter, poet, and all-around great guy--came to Tia Chucha's Cafe Cultural in the Northeast San Fernando Valley section of LA a couple of years ago, the place lit up. He brought so much joy, humor, beauty, skill, and story into our lives. He had done this for 60 years and more. For our little corner of the earth--where so many Mexicanos and Central Americanos have landed--he was truly a blessing. Such heart! Such talent! And grand spirit!

Unfortunately, today, March 17, we received the news that our dear friend passed on in Palm Springs. Lalo was 88.

Lalo Guerrero was the greatest living Chicano musician, founder of the Pachuco boogie sound but also encompassing many styles, including corridos, rancheras, and humorous ditties. Lalo continued to do his music to the very end--concerts in large halls as well as with a few friends. Everyone here at Xispas Magazine and Tia Chucha's Cafe Cultural are truly saddened by his passing--although now the angels will have him for eternity, lucky angels they be. Gracias, Lalo, y que descanses en paz, hermano.