Today we’d like to introduce you to Ric Sanchez and Rob Sanchez.
Hi, Ric Sanchez and Rob Sanchez; thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Our journey with Iguanas de Trapo began in our vibrant hometown of Caracas, Venezuela. Music was a significant part of our lives from an early age, with the rich cultural tapestry of Venezuela and the influences from the grunge movement fueling our passion. We started Iguanas de Trapo in our teenage years, blending the rhythms of our heritage with modern rock influences, creating a unique sound that resonated with our audience. Our band quickly gained popularity, playing in local venues and festivals, launching two albums, and even sharing the stage with bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers in Caracas. We were living our dream, sharing our music and watching it connect with people from all walks of life. However, as Venezuela’s political and economic situation became more challenging, we made the difficult decision to emigrate to the United States in the early 2000s, seeking new opportunities while holding onto our musical aspirations. After moving around the States for work and school, we finally settled in Orlando, Florida, inspired by its diverse cultural landscape and thriving music scene. Starting over in a new country wasn’t easy, but our determination kept us going. We balanced our love for music with our professional lives at Disney, where we currently work. This dual life has been enriching and challenging, allowing us to grow as artists and professionals. Rebuilding Iguanas de Trapo here has been a journey of rediscovery and reinvention. We’re blending the flavors of our Venezuelan roots with the eclectic vibes of Florida’s music scene. We have enrolled two new members into our band, Jamie Wilson and Guy Groff, whom we met in Orlando and who are extraordinary musicians. Seeing our music evolve as we incorporate new influences and experiences is exciting. Today, we are proud of our achievements and excited about the future. Our story is one of resilience, passion, and the unifying power of music.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Embarking on this musical journey has been a challenging road; it’s been filled with both challenges and learning opportunities. One of our biggest struggles is starting from scratch in a new country. In Venezuela, we had established a name for ourselves, but in the United States, we are virtually unknown. Building our reputation among music and concert producers and networking with other bands requires persistent effort and patience. Another significant challenge has been catering to two distinct audiences: rock fans and the Spanish-speaking community. Initially, all in Spanish, our lyrics resonated deeply with our Latino audience, capturing the essence of our heritage and experiences. However, we realized we must bridge the gap with the broader, diverse audience here. To address this, we’re now expanding our musical repertoire to include English lyrics while maintaining the spirit of our Latin roots. This blending of languages and cultures in our music is not just about reaching a wider audience; it’s about creating a fusion that represents who we are today – a mix of our Venezuelan heritage and our new experiences in the United States. Producing new music that appeals to Anglo and Latino audiences is an exciting yet intricate endeavor. It involves balancing the authenticity of our original sound with contemporary influences, ensuring that each song carries the essence of Iguanas de Trapo. This transition represents our evolution as a band and individuals, navigating two cultures and creating a powerful blend.
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Iguanas de Trapo’s songs are a unique blend of alternative rock, grunge, power pop, and hard rock. Our music is defined by its emotional depth and melodic power, which resonates with a broad spectrum of listeners. Our live shows are known for their energy and immersive experience, showcasing our ability to perform at a high level and connect with the audience. One of our significant achievements was our single ‘Sálvame,’ which reached #6 on the Venezuelan pop/rock charts in 2005, demonstrating our broad appeal. This milestone is a testament to our ability to create music that entertains and deeply connects with our fans. Additionally, what sets Iguanas de Trapo apart is our commitment to authenticity in our music and performances. While we embrace a variety of rock genres, our approach to songwriting and performing is deeply rooted in genuine emotion and experiences. This authenticity resonates with our audience, creating a powerful connection that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting?
Our advice to those just starting in the music industry is to stay true to your unique sound and vision. It’s easy to get swayed by trends or to mimic what’s currently popular, but authenticity in your music will make you stand out. Also, be patient and persistent. Success in music doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a journey filled with ups and downs. When starting, we wish we knew the importance of networking and building relationships within the industry. Connect with other musicians, producers, and industry professionals. These connections can open doors and provide opportunities you might have yet to find alone. Lastly, I will always continue learning and evolving as an artist. The music industry constantly changes, and staying adaptable and open to new ideas will help you navigate your career.
Contact Info:
- Website: iguanasdetrapo.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/iguanasdetrapo
- Facebook: facebook.com/iguanasdetrapo
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiMYRHW_M9wrD8gTx8dc2cg
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/20QzQSusPAZSVFk1Mz3A6r?si=On4pF_wITrWrLICyvrbZiw
Image Credits
Ric Sanchez (Black & White Photos) Live show photos: Ryan Reiterman (@ryreiterman on Instagram)
