The Delgados, Norteño Family Traditions

From Michoacán to Wasco, a Family’s Journey Through Music and Migration

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Photos, L-R: Roberto Delgado Jr. (Credit: Leticia Soto Flores/ACTA); Roberto Rosas Delgado (Credit: Leticia Soto Flores/ACTA); Conjunto los Galleros performing at a restaurant in Visalia, CA, on December 29, 2024 (Credit: Leticia Soto Flores/ACTA).

Roberto Rosas Delgado, originally from Tecomán, Colima, Mexico, is a devoted musician whose life story reflects the perseverance, adaptability, and cultural pride of immigrant musicians in California’s Central Valley. His son, Roberto Delgado Jr., carries forward this musical tradition with fresh energy and deep respect for their cultural roots.

Roberto Sr. arrived in the United States, first settling in Earlimart, California, where he lived for 15 years before moving to Wasco. Like many migrant workers, he balanced farm labor—harvesting grapes and almonds—with his musical ambitions. Music, however, was always central to his family life. Roberto’s musical journey began with the guitar and later expanded to the tololoche (upright bass) and electric bass. Although self-taught and without formal music education, he developed strong proficiency across instruments through dedication and passion.

About seven ago, Roberto Sr. joined Conjunto Los Galleros, bringing his experience and commitment to their classic norteño sound. Los Galleros specialize in performing at weddings, quinceañeras, baptisms, birthdays, and even funerals, maintaining deep ties with the Central Valley’s immigrant community. His love for traditional norteño music is influenced by artists like Ramón Ayala, Los Invasores, and Los Cadetes de Linares. He has a deep respect for songs that reflect the immigrant experience and the hardships of supporting family across borders.

Roberto Jr., born and raised in Wasco, California, is now an emerging musician in his own right. Inspired by his father, Roberto Jr. began his musical journey around age 12, when he first picked up the accordion. Initially focused on accordion, he later shifted toward string instruments, particularly the bajo quinto and upright bass.

Learning directly from his father, Roberto Jr. developed technical skills and a profound appreciation for their music's emotional depth and cultural significance. He describes playing alongside his father and the group as a passion rather than a profession. Music is part of his daily life, and he strives to help bridge generations by suggesting new songs that can appeal to younger audiences while preserving the essence of the traditional sounds.

Father and son share a vision for the future: expanding the reach of Los Galleros beyond local performances. The group has built a presence on YouTube and other platforms, aiming for broader recognition. Their bond through music strengthens not only their family ties but also their shared commitment to preserving a vital cultural heritage.

ACTA · Sounds of CA - Boyle Heights
“Well, my dad is the reason I learned, to be honest, because if it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t have learned anything.”
- Roberto Delgado Jr.

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