Work hard, play hard is a saying observed by many at the end of a long work week. During a weekend some people may go to a restaurant, some may look for a place they can enjoy music, but what if you find a place where you can do both. That certainly would make for an epic outing with friends or family.
Enter Luis Rios, an entertainer from Lares, Puerto Rico whose guitar and music skill was forged with over 40 years of experience starting at the tender age of seven. Rios is no stranger to the satisfying nature of music. “When I was a boy my father was a musician and there were many instruments in our home” Rios remembers”.
Growing up, Rios was surrounded by music. His father would regularly take him out to participate in Puerto Rican Christmas caroling called parrandas.
At some point in his life, Rios shifted his focus and learned a trade, and became a barber. “I dedicated myself to my studies and let the music fall somewhat to the wayside”. Being a barber is his livelihood, but it didn’t take too long for Rios to pick back up his passion for music.
“I put together a group called “Los Sabrosos del Ritmo” and for over 17 years we played music in many activities, weddings, and hotels”. “During this time I also learned how to be successful in a group and as a soloist as well”. It is during this time that he became “El Hombre Orquesta” or the One-Man Orchestra.
It’s been forty years and Rios is fortunate to continue to work on both of his life’s passions, music and cutting hair. As he continues to nurture his musical talent, Rios would like to work on recording and distributing his music on the internet.
Asked why he enjoys performing music, Rios says that “being able to please an audience is fulfilling”. He also wants to thank his public for supporting, following, and accepting him throughout his career
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