From her modest beginnings in the Mendoza family band playing for migrant farm workers, Lydia Mendoza became the undisputed queen of Tejano music, receiving awards from presidents and appearing on a US postage stamp. In her 70 years of performing, she never strayed from her Tejana roots, singing cinematic tales of love, treachery and courage. Whether singing alone accompanying herself on bajo sexto or performing with a conjunto band, Mendoza’s voice rings out strong and pure.

Thanks to Scott Newby for suggesting Lydia Mendoza for this episode, and also to Cathy Whitney and Oscar Calzada for helping with translation.

Songs:

Mexico in la Laguna

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvm6BeoAvj8

Celosa (Live)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9X-L39r1oTI&list=RD9X-L39r1oTI&start_radio=1

Mal Hombre

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwTSPb3YVbI

Corrido de Juaquin Murrieta

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymR2oV9W9VQ

Noche de Estrellas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQ4yaiW1h4g

La Boda Negra

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1sInnfrxjc

Information about the artwork of Jose Guadelupe Posada can be found at the Posada Art Foundation.

https://www.posada-art-foundation.com/

One book on his work is entitled Posada's Broadsheets – Mexican Popular Imagery 1890-1910;

Patrick Frank; University of New Mexico Press; 1998

Most often cited as the inventor of the power chord, Link Wray's loud gritty sound had a big influence on rock, heavy metal and punk music. Later in his career he embraced his Native American roots and produced a strong body of work that ranged from acoustic blues to southern rock.

Documentary: Rumble | The Indians that Rocked the World

https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/rumble/

Youtube interview:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ql_4wAinGig

In the 1950’s, the 16-year-old lead singer for the Chantels, Arlene Smith wrote hits and sang with a confidence and power. While the content and production of the songs are simplistic by todays standards, her full-throttled singing would influence vocalist from Janis Joplin to the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers sings the Arlene Smith song "Maybe" at Slane Castle, Ireland:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dd-X-lkc70