Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass – Spanish Flea

More about Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass

Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, an act that became synonymous with the infectious West Coast sound of the 1960s, was the brainchild of trumpeter Herb Alpert. Born on March 31, 1935, in Los Angeles, Alpert was not only a talented musician but also a visionary record producer and music industry executive. He co-founded A&M Records with Jerry Moss, which became one of the most successful independent record labels in music history.

The Tijuana Brass was formed in 1962, initially as a fictional band for the sake of Alpert's first album, 'The Lonely Bull'. The album's success, driven by the title track's surprising hit status, prompted Alpert to assemble a real band, which quickly became a sensation. Their sound, a fusion of jazz, Latin, pop, and easy listening, was innovative and immensely popular, leading to a series of hit albums and singles throughout the 1960s.

The group's distinctive style was characterized by upbeat melodies, Alpert's smooth trumpet playing, and the occasional inclusion of marimba. Albums like 'Whipped Cream & Other Delights' (1965) and 'Going Places' (1965) are iconic, both for their music and their memorable cover art. The Tijuana Brass's version of 'A Taste of Honey' won a Grammy in 1966, and their music became a staple on American radio and in households.

Despite the band's dissolution in the late 1960s, Alpert continued to have a successful solo career, further cementing his legacy in the music industry. The Tijuana Brass's sound remains influential and beloved, a testament to Herb Alpert's innovative spirit and the enduring appeal of their music.