HARLINGEN -- Acclaimed Mexican singer and drummer Alvaro Lopez will perform and participate in a clinic for musicians Saturday, May 26, at Hidalgo’s Iglesia de la Comunidad Internacional.
“(The clinic) will introduce a series of concepts of love and respect through music,” Lopez said.
Lopez, who just finished a Latin American tour which included Ecuador, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Venezuela and Honduras, was deemed one of the top 10 drummers in the world by Modern Drummer magazine in 1993. The devout Christian performer has toured with Jose Jose, Daniela Romo, Yuri, Pedro Vargas and Luis Miguel.
He has also recorded his unique mix of jazz, gospel and various Latin styles in English and Spanish.
Since forming the ResqBand, he has received a Dove Award, also known as a Gospel Music Award, for best international group in 1995 and has been nominated for his work as a producer.
He was recently nominated for a Latin Grammy for his work on Ileana Garcés’ album “El amor tiene un valor.”
Lopez answered a few of our question regarding his inspiration, his faith, and his music.
THE V: Are you working on any new projects?
LOPEZ: Yes, we’re launching ResqBand, “Concierto En Vivo,” with Abraham Laboriel Luis Conte and Ed Calle, great musicians, and most of all, great people.
THE V: Why did you decide to record in English?
LOPEZ: Because what’s important is not the language, but our soul’s love and transparency.
THE V: What inspired you to become a drummer and who are your biggest influences?
LOPEZ: Well, my father and brother, Steve Gadd Dave Wackell.
THE V: Is there anyone in particular that you haven’t worked with and would like to?
LOPEZ: Yes, with Chick Corea. He’s a great musician and a world legend. I believe he’s among the most brilliant individuals in our planet.
THE V: You've traveled with many great artists. Who is your favorite and why?
LOPEZ: The best is Luis Miguel, and that’s because of his professionalism.
THE V: It’s clear that Christianity plays an important part in your music and your life. Were you raised a Christian?
LOPEZ: My happiness comes from being one of King Jesus’s son. There are people who only change their appearance, but when you find God, the change comes from within, not the exterior That’s what it means to be a Christian, a change of heart and becoming a better person.
THE V: What’s your inspiration when you write music?
LOPEZ: God’s love and forgiveness and pursuing the purpose of my life, which is making music that glorifies the king of the universe, Jesus.
THE V: In 1993 you were recognized as one of the best 10 drummers in the world. Do you think you are one of the best?
LOPEZ: Look, in the music business there shouldn’t be any competitions, we have to be competent. For me, music is the means we have to give, and I want to tell young ones to fight for their dreams, never to give up, (God) has a purpose for them, never to be content with what you have, but work for something better.
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Lopez will perform at Iglesia de la Comunidad, 2251 N. 10th Street in Hidalgo on Saturday, May 26, at 10 a.m. For information call (956) 843-1100. Tickets for the event are $10. For more information on Alvaro Lopez and Res-Q band visit their official Web site www.resqband.com.
