Artist Wiki

Ruben Moreno

Overview

Ruben Moreno is a Chicano-Creole Zydeco artist from Houston, Texas, celebrated for his innovative fusion of traditional Zydeco with modern influences, captivating audiences worldwide with his vibrant performances and dynamic sound. Leading the band Zydeco Re-Evolution, he aims to bridge cultural gaps and elevate the genre, showcasing his exceptional talent on the accordion and rubboard while inspiring change through his music.

Ruben Moreno

Ruben Moreno is a talented Chicano-Creole Zydeco artist from Houston, Texas, who has made a significant impact on the Zydeco music scene. Known for his modern twist on traditional Zydeco, Moreno bridges cultural sounds and creates a vibrant audio experience that draws audiences worldwide.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Ruben Moreno was born and raised in Houston, Texas, into a family with a rich musical heritage. His father's side boasts Chicano lineage with Grammy-winning Tejano artists, while his mother's Creole background introduced him to the world of Zydeco music.

Moreno displayed prodigious musical talent from a young age:- Learned to play percussion by age 8- Mastered the accordion by age 11

His early exposure to music was also shaped by his grandmother, who owned a bar in East Houston that was a popular haunt for Zydeco musicians.

Musical Journey

Ruben Moreno's professional music career began at a remarkably early age:- He started playing in clubs at 13- Began touring professionally at 15

He has gained invaluable experience performing with renowned Zydeco artists:- Played scrubboard with his uncle, Leroy Thomas and the Zydeco Roadrunners- Toured with Grammy-nominated artist CJ Chenier- Performed with Andre Thierry, his musical idol and mentor

Musical Style and Innovations

Moreno is celebrated for his dynamic and innovative approach to Zydeco music:- Balances traditional Zydeco sounds with fresh, modern influences- Incorporates elements from various genres, including Rock, Country, Ska, and Swing- Aims to break down barriers between Zydeco and pop culture while maintaining traditional roots

Talents and Accolades

Ruben Moreno is a multi-talented musician, known for:- His melodic voice- Being one of the world's finest rubboard players- His skilled accordion performance- Numerous awards recognizing his talents on both washboard and accordion

Notable Performances and Collaborations

Throughout his career, Moreno has:- Toured across North America, Central America, and Europe- Collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including: - Los Lobos - Léon Bridges - Gio Chamba - Nick Gaitan - Diego Diaz - Vieux Farka - Khruangbin

Discography

Ruben Moreno has a rich catalog of music, including:- Debut album: "Por Ti Volare" (2011/2012)- EP: "Complique" (2016)- Live album: "Live at Stubb's" (2023)- Singles such as "Your Night" (2024), "Sunshine State" (2022), and "Better Together" (2020)

Band: Zydeco Re-Evolution

Moreno leads the band Zydeco Re-Evolution, which aims to push the boundaries of traditional Zydeco music while introducing it to new audiences.

Musical Philosophy and Goals

Ruben Moreno perceives his music as more than mere entertainment:- He views his career as a vehicle for positive change- Draws inspiration from figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Bob Marley- Aspires to be the first big Zydeco crossover artist

Performance Style

Renowned for his charismatic stage presence, Moreno offers:- "Dynamic Youthful Energy" and "Hot ~ Sizzlin Hot" performances- A "Locked down dance groove"- An engaging style of Creole soul and honky-tonk Zydeco that captures audience attention

Ruben Moreno remains a vibrant and influential figure in the Zydeco music scene, blending traditional sounds with contemporary influences to propel the genre into a new era.

Sources

Date added:
Fri Mar 21 2025 14:52:09 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)