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A Local Band is Gaining Significant Popularity
- Updated: March 3, 2025
By Mike Villarreal
Rustic Rose is a local band from the Rio Grande Valley, aiming to bridge the gap between Hispanic-Tejano music and the Nashville and Texas country scene. Their goal is to represent the RGV with every success they achieve.
The members of Rustic Rose include:
– Rosendo (Chendo) Tienda: Lead Singer and Lead Guitarist
– Saul (Blu) Soto: Drummer
– Oscar Zeke Limas: Acoustic Guitarist and Hype-Man
– Samuel de los Santos: Bassist
– Jose Angel Torres: Fiddler and Accordionist
– Angel Serrata: Band Manager
The team also comprises Reyes Cesar Soto as the sound technician, Mary Ann Fonseca as the Merch Executive, and Aaron Diaz of Rizen Media for Photography and Media.
Rustic Rose was formed during their refinery days while working in Corpus Christi. Initially, the band included Angel, Blu, and Chendo. Although Angel didn’t play an instrument, he became the band manager and contributed ideas for their songs.
Rosendo Tienda’s love for music began at age 15, influenced by legends like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan while gravitating toward the guitar-driven sounds of 90s country music. Chendo hails from Weslaco, Texas, and draws songwriting inspiration from local legends, Freddy Fender and Country Roland.
Saul (Blu) Soto is originally from Progreso and now lives in Mercedes, Texas. He is a passionate drummer and songwriter who captures deep emotions through his lyrics, which often explore themes of love, loneliness, hard work, and struggles. His dedication is evident in his music, making him a compelling voice in the RGV.
Oscar Zeke Limas is from the small town of Elsa, Texas. He was introduced to music by his two older sisters and learned the art of writing from his father. Zeke brings passion to all he does, whether strumming the guitar, writing lyrics or engaging with fans. He cherishes every moment, feeling grateful for his God-given gift.
Samuel de los Santos, a Weslaco native, has a diverse musical background as a bassist and vocalist, which adds a unique feel to the band’s mix of country and Tejano influences. When not with the Rustic Bros, he enjoys relaxing with his family.
Jose Angel Torres was born in Miguel Aleman, Tamaulipas, Mexico, and was immersed in Mexican music from a young age. After moving to Roma, Texas, he joined a school orchestra program, where he learned to play the viola and violin, and a school conjunto program, where he picked up the accordion. As part of Rustic Rose, Angel blends his roots with Texas country, giving the genre a fresh feel.
Recently, Rustic Rose performed at the Fiesta de la Feria, delivering an unforgettable show. One highlight for Angel Torres was giving his bandana to a fan who asked for it, making him feel both appreciated and connected to the audience.
Angel advises anyone starting in the music scene to remember his father’s saying: “Puedes lograr lo que sea con tal de ser consistente” (You can accomplish anything as long as you are consistent).
The founding members—Rosendo, Angel Serrata, and Blu—began the journey to form Rustic Rose after returning to the RGV. They dedicated time for a writing session at Blu’s house, along with Zeke, who is Angel’s golfing buddy. Blu and Rosendo began composing music, while Zeke and Angel contributed a verse. This collaboration eventually revisited the song “What Kind of Devil.”
Blu was amazed by the Fiesta de la Feria, noting how supportive the “Rosebuds” were and the joy of watching people dance to their original songs. Zeke echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for their loyal following among the audience.
For Sam, it was thrilling to see familiar faces, as well as new fans emerging from the crowd.
When asked for advice for newcomers, Rosendo emphasized the importance of confidence in one’s craft, encouraging aspiring musicians to play what they feel and to pursue their passion, assuring them that their audience will find them.
Sam advised resilience: one will receive both compliments and criticism, but it’s essential to stay positive and keep moving forward. He also encouraged seeking musical guidance and networking, as one never knows who might be the next star.
Zeke added that talent isn’t everything; it’s the hunger to succeed that truly matters. He encouraged aspiring musicians not to settle for a seat at the table but to build their own table.
Initially, the band considered the name “Sweet Mesquite,” but it didn’t resonate with everyone, and a Google search revealed that the name was already taken. After tossing around various suggestions in a group chat, the name “Rustic” was proposed by drummer Blu and gained traction. Chendo then added “Rose” to represent Rosendo, resulting in the band name “Rustic Rose.”
For booking inquiries with Rustic Rose, you can reach them at [email protected].
Photos provided by Rustic Rose
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