Roots of rock in the Valley

Chicano rock and roll has deep roots in Southern California. Tía Chucha’s Centro Cultural & Bookstore in Sylmar displays them this Saturday, July 30, as authors David Reyes & Tom Waldman read from “Land of a Thousand Dances: Chicano Rock ‘n’ Roll from Southern California.”

Their book details the history of the music and the artists behind it, who usually came from inauspicious backgrounds and had no formal musical training. They faced a sometimes-bigoted recording industry that was largely unaware of their existence and reluctant to market them.

Additional discussion will be devoted to the women of the movement. Ersi and Rosella Arvizu from The Sisters will tell stories of their experience with the 1960s rock scene. Ersi will then join rockers El Chicano for a musical performance.

Tia Chucha’s brings literature and art to the Northeast Valley with readings, writing circles, music, community meetings and more. It is located at 13197-A Gladstone Avenue.  This free event takes place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Posted 7/27/11