Voces Season 1 Episode 8 Lalo Guerrero: The Original Chicano

Lalo Guerrero: The Original Chicano is the eighth and final episode of the first season of Voces. The episode explores the life and legacy of Lalo Guerrero, a Mexican-American musician known as the "father of Chicano music." Guerrero was born in Tucson, Arizona in 1916 and grew up in a bilingual household where he was exposed to both Mexican and American music.

The episode begins with Guerrero's early life, including his experiences growing up during the Great Depression and the discrimination he faced as a Mexican-American. Despite these challenges, Guerrero pursued his passion for music and began performing in local nightclubs during the 1930s.

As his career progressed, Guerrero became increasingly interested in using music as a form of social and political activism. He wrote songs that addressed issues such as discrimination, poverty, and immigration, and became an important voice in the Chicano movement of the 1960s and 1970s.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to some of Guerrero's most iconic songs, such as "El Chicano," "Nunca Jamas," and "Barrio Viejo." The episode also features interviews with Guerrero's family members, friends, and fellow musicians, who offer insights into his life and work.

One of the key themes of the episode is the importance of Guerrero's music in the Mexican-American community. As interviewees note, Guerrero's music provided a sense of pride, identity, and cultural representation for Chicanos at a time when these things were often denied to them.

The episode also explores Guerrero's personal life, including his marriages and his relationship with his children. Interviews with Guerrero's daughter and granddaughter offer a glimpse into the musician's family life and the impact he had on those closest to him.

Overall, Lalo Guerrero: The Original Chicano is a fitting tribute to one of the most important figures in Chicano music. The episode captures the spirit of Guerrero's activism and celebrates his lasting legacy as an artist and a voice for social justice.