Courtesy photo
I enjoy collaborating with various promoters, publishers, and managers, and I consistently encounter wonderful, powerful, electrifying bands across Texas. These artists excel in the music industry, and it is a privilege to assist in promoting their new music and events throughout Texas and the surrounding areas.
Recently, my colleague, Hilda Peña, introduced me to a band she is promoting: Los Arcos Hermanos Peña. Instantly, I was drawn to their music. Their unique hometown Conjunto genre style, on-stage collaboration, and studio recordings are incredibly captivating and deserving of widespread recognition. I encourage everyone to listen to their music, purchase their songs or albums, and attend their live performances whenever possible. The band members are humble and excited about their future.
Texas boasts a vibrant music scene, and with a career spanning several decades, this Conjunto band continues to captivate audiences with their distinctive sound and deep-rooted musical heritage.
The origins of this legendary band date back to 1972 when Jerry Peña, then just 11 years old, formed his first band, Los Arcos Del Norte. The original lineup included Ricardo Bosques Sr. on Bajo Sexto, Julian Rodriguez on bass, Ricardo Bosques Jr. on drums, Pete Balderas on vocals, and Jerry Peña on vocals and accordion.
Los Arcos Hermanos Peña, led by the charismatic Gerardo Peña Sr., also known as Jerry Peña, has been a staple in the Conjunto genre since its inception. Jerry, who manages arrangements, production, vocals, and plays the accordion, relocated from Marion, Indiana, to Dimmitt, Texas. There, his brother Luis Peña Jr. on the Bajo Sexto, Hector Rodriguez on drums, and Johnny Gonzales on bass and vocals joined Los Arcos Del Norte.
In 1978, the band secured first place in a highly competitive contest featuring 33 bands in Lubbock, Texas, marking the beginning of their remarkable journey in the music industry.
Their first recording, under the name Los Arcos Del Norte, was released in 1979 with Joey Records. Over the years, they have produced more than 25 albums across various labels, collaborating with renowned artists such as Toño Zamora, Crystal Tarango, and the late Cornelio Reyna. The band achieved significant success in the 1980s with hits like “El Borracho Del Año,” which topped Mexican-American charts for an impressive 34 consecutive weeks. Their album “Una Carta Y Un Clavel” was certified gold in the United States and sold over 50,000 copies worldwide.
Los Arcos Hermanos Peña has developed a distinctive sound that blends hardcore Conjunto with a classic Relampagos Del Norte-inspired style. Their music is characterized by fiery accordion solos, harmonious vocals, tight rhythms, and intricate bajo sexto.
Jerry’s brothers, Gilberto Peña and Ramon Peña Sr., joined the band in the ’80s Since they were no longer from the north and were all brothers, they changed their name to Los Arcos Hermanos Peña. His nephews Luis Peña III and Oscar Peña Sr. joined shortly after, playing alongside him for most of their musical journey. The band experienced tragedy with the passing of drummer Ramon Peña in 1992, prompting their brother Fidencio to join on drums. Another loss occurred in 2016 with the passing of Luis Peña III. Los Arcos Hermanos Peña honor the memory of their late members, Luis Peña III and Ramon Peña Sr., who played pivotal roles in shaping the band’s history. Their contributions will forever be cherished.
In recognition of their significant contributions to the genre, Los Arcos Hermanos Peña were inducted into the Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame in Alice, Texas, in 2020. Their performance at the induction ceremony was lauded as one of the best ever witnessed, a testament to their enduring talent and appeal. Jerry, along with his brothers and nephew, was inducted into the class of 2019 Hall of Fame. Recently, they decided to pursue separate musical paths, continuing to keep the music alive through different branches of the family.
Currently, the band has embraced a new chapter in 2024, with Jerry’s sons, nephew, and godson joining him on stage. This new generation is poised to carry on the family legacy, infusing their performances with fresh energy and passion.
Jerry Peña | Courtesy photo
Current Members:
- Gerardo Peña Sr. (Jerry Peña) — Accordion and Vocals
- Isaac Aguilar — Bajo Sexto and Vocals
- Fabian Peña — Bass and Vocals
- Gerardo Peña Jr. (JJ Peña) — Drums and Vocals
- Adrian Peña — Percussion & Vocals
Los Arcos Hermanos Peña remains a beloved fixture in the Conjunto music scene, continuing to inspire fans with their heartfelt performances and unwavering dedication to their music. Their journey from Marion, Indiana, to the heart of Texas is a testament to their passion and resilience, ensuring their legacy endures for generations to come.
Los Arcos Hermanos Peña — Buena Suerte Corazón
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Their new single, “Buena Suerte Corazón,” is catching the attention of fans with its fiery accordion sound, harmonious vocals, tight rhythms, and intricate bajo sexto that the fans love and admire. The single is hitting various charts and has even broken the record by staying at #1 for nine consecutive weeks in West Texas. You can find their newest single on all digital platforms or visit the website for more information at LosArcosHermanosPeña.com.
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