Tortilla Factory, one of the most influential bands in Tejano music history, has returned with a remake of their 1973 classic hit “El Papolote.” The song, originally sung by Bobby Butler (El Charro Negro), is now being introduced to a new generation of fans with a fresh recording featuring the dynamic vocals of Marcus Daniels, “The Midnight Mariachi.”
Alfredo Antonio Guerrero, son of the band’s late founding member Tony “Ham” Guerrero, is leading the next generation of Tortilla Factory as they continue to evolve while staying rooted in the traditions of Tejano music. Alfredo spoke to Tejano Nation about the decision to remaster “El Papolote” with Marcus Daniels and the exciting changes to the band’s lineup.
Marcus Daniels | Courtesy photo
“Marcus had always been following Tortilla Factory and was a big fan of Charro (Bobby Butler),” Alfredo explained. “He wanted to meet Charro, but unfortunately, Charro passed away right before we were supposed to meet him. Afterward, Marcus and I became friends, and he came and auditioned for the band. He did a great job, and we started performing together. We wanted to give him the opportunity to record ‘El Papolote,’ one of the band’s biggest hits. He nailed it, and we’re excited to share it with the world.”
The new version of “El Papolote” will be released on March 28 on all digital platforms, accompanied by an official music video directed by Lupe Moya. This track follows the band’s previous hit, a remake of “Prieta Linda” featuring Tejano legend David Lee Garza, which was nominated for Song of the Year at the Premios Tejano Mundial earlier this year.
In addition to the release of “El Papolote,” Tortilla Factory is working on a new album to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Alfredo Guerrero confirmed that the album is nearly complete, with just two or three tracks left to finish. Fans can expect the album to drop later this year.
Tortilla Factory is also gearing up for a busy performance schedule, including major events like Fiesta De Los Reyes in San Antonio, Texas, on April 25, the Vegas Tejano Takeover in Las Vegas, Nevada, on July 11, and the Tejano Conjunto Festival in Sacramento, California, on August 31.
The band has also added trumpeter Ram Amaya, a former member of Abraham Quintanilla’s Los Dinos, to their lineup. With “Wild Bill” Perkins serving as the band’s music director, Tortilla Factory continues to build on their rich legacy, blending the past with the future as they prepare to take their next steps into the next generation of Tejano music.
Get ready for the next chapter of Tortilla Factory with the release of “El Papolote” on March 28, and stay tuned for more exciting music from this legendary band!
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