In 1993, Ricky Naranjo began playing the drums for his father, Ruben Naranjo. He soon found himself booking gigs for Ruben Naranjo y Los Gamblers, and managing the band as well. Upon the passing of his father in 1998, many fans began to ask Ricky not if he was going to continue the band, but when. Ricky found himself in a tough position and decided that continuing the group was what his father would have wanted him to do. Thus Ricky Naranjo y Los Gamblers began.
The band’s first album was an instant success. It was recorded with Hacienda Records, and thousands of copies were sold. The success was a little unexpected, and Ricky found himself trying to keep his musicians pleased.
At the same time Ricky was touring, Ruben Naranjo’s grandson was busy learning the accordion. Ruben Naranjo III was a fifteen-year-old, who found himself receiving accordion lessons from a Hall of Fame accordionist Amadeo Flores. The young Naranjo quickly caught on to the same style of accordion playing that made his grandfather famous. Soon after, Ruben III found himself in the recording studio with Ricky, working on a new record. The chemistry between Ricky and Ruben instantly clicked, and the music began to flow. Since then the two have recorded thirteen albums, and have toured all over the United States and Mexico. Ricky Naranjo y Los Gamblers are not just a Conjunto band, they are a family tradition, hailing from Alice Texas.
Tejano Nation caught up with accordionist Ruben Naranjo III, drummer Ricky Naranjo, bajo player Roger Ramirez, and bassist Javier Ramirez, along with promoter Kumbia Champs of Guadalupe Promotions, at the Dia De Los Conjuntos Dance at the historic Fiesta Ballroom in Seguin Texas. The band spoke about the legendary Ruben Naranjo, who started it all and led the way for them. discussed new music coming soon and upcoming shows and events. Be sure to follow Ricky Naranjo y Los Gamblers, to keep up with all their latest music and shows on their Facebook page.
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