X and Los Lobos to perform on 99 Years of Rock ‘N Roll tour at the Rose
X and Los Lobos, two iconic bands from the Los Angeles music scene, are joining forces for their first national tour together to celebrate 99 years of rock ‘n roll. With each band boasting all original members who have been rocking stages for over six decades, this tour marks a historic moment in music history. The X & Los Lobos: 99 Years of Rock ‘N Roll tour will be making a stop at the Rose Music Center in Huber Heights on September 21.
Los Lobos, a band that emerged from East Los Angeles in the 1970s, has been pushing musical boundaries for more than 50 years. Their unique blend of rock, blues, Tex-Mex, country, R&B, and traditional Latin sounds has garnered them widespread acclaim. One of their standout achievements includes a Grammy-winning cover of “La Bamba,” solidifying their place in music history and earning them a reputation as one of the most captivating live acts in the industry.
X, on the other hand, quickly rose to prominence in 1977 as one of the standout bands in LA’s burgeoning punk scene. Recognized as pioneers of their generation, X features vocalists Exene Cervenka and John Doe, guitarist Billy Zoom, and drummer DJ Bonebrake. Surprisingly, the band has managed to keep its original lineup intact throughout the years, a rare feat in the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.
As the band embarked on its “The End is Near Tour” in 2024 and released what they referred to as their final album, “Smoke & Fiction,” it became evident that X’s days on the road were numbered. The upcoming tour with Los Lobos will likely be one of the American punk band’s last hurrahs before bidding farewell to fans for good.
Despite the approaching end, X’s music continues to resonate with audiences old and new. The band’s ability to blend genres like rockabilly, Americana, and folk into their signature punk sound has captivated listeners for decades. At a recent show in Memphis, X’s performance was a testament to their enduring appeal, drawing fans of all ages, including a new generation of punk enthusiasts.
In a recent interview, Exene shared insights into the band’s longevity and enduring legacy. She attributed their continued success to a combination of luck, perseverance, and a shared passion for creating music that challenges and inspires. Despite the physical challenges of touring and the inevitable personality conflicts that arise after years of collaboration, X has managed to defy the odds and keep the music alive.
Reflecting on the band’s storied career, Exene emphasized the liberating ethos that defined the LA punk scene in the ’70s. Bands like X weren’t trying to fit a mold; they were forging new paths and creating sounds that were entirely their own. This spirit of creativity and innovation continues to resonate with audiences today, attracting fans who are drawn to the band’s uncompromising approach to music.
As X prepares to bid farewell to fans, Exene remains philosophical about the decision to bring the band’s storied career to a close. Citing the challenges of songwriting, recording, and the demanding nature of the music industry, she acknowledges that the time has come to close this chapter and move on to new horizons. With a final album and tour on the horizon, X’s legacy as pioneers of punk rock is secure, ensuring that their music will continue to inspire and intrigue audiences for years to come.