Roger Velasquez is a versatile musician and vocalist. With the support and direction of Grammy Award Winning Producer Bob Gallarza of On the Edge Productions, Roger has stepped up to be front and center on a new solo musical project entitled “Quiero Besarte”. The album, which includes six original compositions written by Roger, was recorded at Velasquez Music Studio and engineered by Grammy Award winner Gilbert Velasquez.
Upon the exit of Jay Perez, Roger Velasquez became a familiar figure in the Tejano scene when he became the lead singer for the legendary Latin Breed. He was the featured vocalist on the album “Born To Play” which was the Latin Breed’s follow up project to the award winning album “Breaking the Rules”. Bob Gallarza recognized Velasquez’ talent and his passion for the business, inviting him to be a guest vocalist on his “En Familia” project creating the hit “A Puros Tragos”. This was the start of a long lasting relationship.
In August 2005, Roger performed in Las Vegas for the Tejano Music National Convention at the Rio Hotel and Casino alongside Bob Gallarza. In 2006, Gallarza was nominated for a Grammy Award for the album entitled “Live in Session” featuring Roger Velasquez and other guest vocalists. The album was later voted “Best CD Project” by the Academy of Tejano Artists and Musicians in 2007.
In addition to leading his own band, The Latin Legends, Roger has toured with Bob Gallarza and Jimmy Edward performing songs from Edward’s new albums “It’s All Right” and “Mi Mundo Feliz”. The tour included a performance at the Las Vegas Hilton for the 2007 Tejano Music National Convention. Roger also appeared as a special guest vocalist on Ram Herrera’s 2007 album on the song entitled “Mi Mejor Amigo”. Ram recorded two additional compositions written by Roger, “Trago Profundo” and “Con El Favor De Dios”.
Roger Velasquez’ talents have also been recognized by the Hollywood television and film industry. In the 1980’s Roger was recruited by actor Jesse Borrego (Fame, 24, Con Air, A Brave New World, Blood in Blood Out) to direct his Latin Funk Conjunto, Los Muertos. Los Muertos made candid appearances on MTV’s Street Party hosted by Daisy Fuentes and Univision’s “Bailando Con Franco”. Los Muertos also performed in the 1990’s film short “City of Passion,” directed and produced by San Antonio Director Jorge Sandoval.
In the 1995 Lupita Productions film “El Sueno de Simon”, Roger composed, arranged, and produced an entire movie soundtrack for up and coming Director James Borrego. Compelled to compose for theater and cinema, Roger was commissioned to write a highly emotional work “Mal Hombre” for the Hollywood Pictures/Walt Disney Production “Bound By Honor”/”Blood In Blood Out”, for Oscar Winning Director Taylor Hackford (Ray, An Officer and a Gentleman and La Bamba). The movie starred Jesse Borrego, Benjamin Bratt and Damian Chapa.
Always from the heart, the work of Roger Velasquez never misses a beat in satisfying listeners. Velasquez states: “My music is given to you straight from the heart in hopes that we can share in the joy and suffering that unites us as human beings. I invite one and all to join with me in the celebration of life, love and the pursuit of music.”
Roger Velasquez’ debut solo CD “Quiero Besarte” is in stores now. For more information on Roger Velasquez, visit his website at www.RogerVelasquez.com. To book Roger Velasquez email: thelatinlegends@yahoo.com.
Great show last friday in Corpus! Its always a blast when we get to do shows together. MONSTER BAND! and your voice...... LOL BAD ASS bro! You have always been one of my fav artists! Peace and Happy Holidays!!!!
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