Trini Lopez

One of the most popular performers of the 1960s, Trini Lopez won a large international following for his upbeat, likable blend of folk and rock & roll. His repertoire was steeped in folk standards and popular tunes of the day, which he favored with his instrumental style, a light yet insistent variation on early rock and rockabilly that was perfect for dancing, singalongs, and clapping, all of which Lopez cheerfully encouraged. At a time when there were few Latin musicians in rock, he was outspokenly proud of his Mexican-American heritage, and often sang in Spanish, which help...