Vagon Chicano

Originating from Cedral, San Luis Potosí, Mexico, Vagón Chicano—affectionately dubbed "La Máquina de la Música"—was established in 1989 by the Torres Gloria brothers: Alfredo (bass and lead vocals), Eleazar (accordion, second vocals, and director), Rodolfo (bajo sexto and second vocals), José Luis (drums), and Raúl (percussion and second vocals). Their moniker reflects their childhood fascination with passing trains and admiration for popular Chicano music groups of the era. Initially balancing roles as primary school music teachers, the brothers secured instruments through state support, laying the foundation for their musical journey. Their debut album, Recuerdos de mi tierra (1992), released under Frontera Records, featured tracks like "Morenita consentida" and "Un clavo saca otro clavo." Transitioning to RYN Records in 1994, they produced albums such as Mitad tú, mitad yo (1993) and Guante Blanco (1994), showcasing songs like "El guardián de tus pasos" and "Entrégate completa." A pivotal moment arrived in August 1999 when they signed with Discos Sabinas (Disa), leading to the release of Mi amuleto eres tú in February 2000. This album, featuring hits like its title track, "Una vez más," and "Punto final," propelled them to widespread acclaim across Mexico and the United States. Subsequent albums, including La Despedida (2001) with tracks like "No me arrepiento," and Bodas de Engaño (2002), featuring "Necesidad," solidified their presence in the norteño genre. In 2012, after the dissolution of Disa, they transitioned to Prime Time Records, releasing Desnudo y Herido, which included "Enamorándome más fuerte." Tragedy struck on April 20, 2014, with the passing of Raúl Torres Gloria; his son, Raúl Torres Jr., subsequently joined the group on percussion and second vocals.