TUCSON, AZ — Original and current members of Los Changuitos Feos de Tucson broke out into a pop-up performance featuring four traditional mariachi songs at the Tucson Meet Yourself Festival on Saturday, October 9.
The surprise performance featured multiple generations of Los Changuitos Feos de Tucson coming together for a once-in-a-lifetime performance in support of the “Ugly Little Monkeys” feature documentary which tells the story of the original Los Changuitos Feos de Tucson and the legacy they’ve built. The production is in its final stages of filming and the pop-up performance will be highlighted in the completed project.
Tejano Nation contributor Elisa Jaimez (DJ Peaches) caught up with members of the group including Adalberto Gallegos, an original member who went on to become the lead vocalist for legendary band Latin Breed, former member Louie Ranjel and current members about the experiences with Los Changuitos Feos.
The Ugly Little Monkeys feature documentary tells the story of Los Changuitos Feos de Tucson, the first youth mariachi group in the U.S. founded in 1964 by Irish Catholic priest, Father Charles Rourke. The name, Los Changuitos Feos de Tucson, chosen by Father Rourke, although controversial, still remains after 50 plus years and achieved national recognition following performances at presidential inaugurations for Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford.
The group eventually rose to international fame. Despite all their success, there was a deep, dark, ugly secret that would destroy anyone. However, it was their faith and faith in each other that helped these young men overcome the pain they suffered at the hands of their spiritual and musical leader and it was their will to rise above it that led them to become successful men, musicians and community leaders.
To learn more about the Ugly Little Monkeys project and to view the teaser, visit: www.uglylittlemonkeys.com.
Follow Tejano Nation on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with everything Tejano. Listen to new Tejano music first with our Spotify playlists and iHeartRadio podcast.
Jimmy “JD” Gonzalez Nominated for Texas Radio Hall of Fame Class 2026 | Tejano Nation
Pioneering Spanish-language and Tejano radio executive among 50 nominees as voting opens for the Texas Radio Hall of Fame’s 2026 induction class
Yvonne y Fuego Return With ‘Yo Creo En Ti’ After Two-Year Hiatus | Tejano Nation
Best New Female Artist winner Yvonne Ramos says the band’s comeback is fueled by renewed passion, self-discovery, and a fresh musical vision
Shelly Lares honored with exhibit induction at Totally Tejano Hall of Fame & Museum
Tejano icon reflects on 43-year career, faith, family, and legacy during emotional San Antonio ceremony
Discover more from Tejano Nation
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Tejano Nation 
0 comments on “Pop-up mariachi performance by Los Changuitos Feos de Tucson with original and current members to be part of upcoming documentary”