Village Callers
In 2004, I was honored to share a piece of music history that I was privileged to be part of at the Latin Music Festival in San Bernardino, California. That late summer, the city came alive with color, people, music, and celebration during the annual Route 66 Car & Hot Rod Event, followed by an unforgettable live concert.
I had the honor of serving as MC and host for an outstanding show that featured five top music acts, including The Village Callers and comedian Gilbert Esquivel. The energy in the crowd was undeniable as the evening unfolded.
The Village Callers opened their set with a smooth, classic tune that instantly erased the years since their last performance. The crowd responded enthusiastically, filling the outdoor dance floor from the very first notes. The lineup featured Geree on female vocals, along with Ernie Hernandez Jr., John Gonzales, Joe Espinosa, Adolfo “Fuzzy” Martinez, Chuck Masten, and Manny Fernandez.
As anticipation grew, the audience welcomed the band with thunderous applause—audible in the live recording—proving that 35 years was just a number. When The Village Callers launched into their signature song “Hector,” a collective “awwww, yeah!” echoed from the crowd. Adding to the moment, the band’s former manager and inspiration for the song, Hector Rivera, was in attendance, smiling proudly. Rivera was instrumental in elevating the group from backyard parties to the club and concert circuit, leading to their 1969 classic album, Village Callers Live at the Plush Bunny.
The performance was mixed live by Hector Gonzalez using a British 40-input Allen & Heath mixing console. This three-song set captures the essence of a classic group whose sound lives on. The playlist includes “Mississippi Delta,” “Evil Ways,” and “Hector,” with “Hector” co-written by John Gonzales and Joe Espinosa.
Village Callers Jukebox ~ September 18, 2004 Concert
