In this episode of Deep Routes we are joined by the Afro-diasporic Grammy-winning band Quetzal.

The band has served as a vehicle for connection, ancestral storytelling, and activism throughout Los Angeles and the world for decades. Spanning many members, the band exemplifies the transformative qualities of music and its ability to transcend the often oppressive conventions of the music industry. Drawing inspiration from their encuentros in places like Chiapas and work in their own communities of East Los Angeles, Willowbrook, Hollywood, Pico Union and beyond, Quetzal members have created spaces for other artists to grow and express themselves.

We are honored to share their stories and ideas that embody the spirit of what the Deep Routes series is about – the intersectionality and connectivity of music across the Los Angeles landscape.

Please enjoy these interviews held with core members Quetzal Flores and Martha Gonzales, and other members of the group, Alberto Lopez, Evan Greer and Tylana Enomoto, surrounding their musical path and experience in the band.

Interviews in order of appearance:

* Martha Gonzalez
* Alberto Lopez
* Evan Greer
* Tylana Enomoto
* Quetzal Flores

Deep Routes is a radio series produced by dublab in partnership with Metro Art and with support from California Humanities and the Eastside Arts Initiative. Deep Routes explores the music histories embedded in the Los Angeles landscape and the transit topographies that connect them. You will hear interconnecting dialog from different music scenes, themes of identity, and civic themes that correspond to LA neighborhoods, featuring in-depth interviews with local artists, business owners, and community leaders. Fundamentally we aim to identify lesser told oral histories, and the ingredients required to allow musical cultures to prosper.

This program was made possible through support from the Eastside Arts Initiative and California Humanities, a non-profit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Visit California Humanities website for more info at: calhum.org.