Rodrigo y Gabriela

Biography

Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero met as teenagers in Mexico City, both dedicated heavy metal fans at the time. They combined their talents for a time in the metal group Tierra Acida, playing around D.F. in the roughest clubs the city had to offer, and working day jobs. Though they recorded, Tierra Acida never hit it big, deciding not to release the album. Instead, Sanchez and Quintero concentrated on learning more guitar styles, teaching lessons during the day and playing bossa novas in hotel bars at night. Bored and frustrated with their chances in the Americas, Sanchez and Quintero decided to try their luck in Europe. They traveled to Dublin, where a friend offered them a place to stay. The duo spoke no English, had about a thousand dollars between them, and upon arrival found that their offer of hospitality had vanished. The pair soon turned toward busking on the streets of Dublin. Though street performance is not an easy way to make a living, the pair soon developed a good reputation, and established contacts and connections. Among their newfound friends was fellow busker Damien Rice, who soon asked them to accompany him on tour. The Mexican duo had by this time developed a large repertoire of original material in a variety of styles. They released their debut record in 2003, entitled Re-Foc, followed a year later by Live: Manchester and Dublin. Rodrigo y Gabriela now continue to tour the world music circuit, compose, and record. Their third album, Rodrigo y Gabriela, was released in 2006. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez, All Music Guide