Óscar Chávez

Born in Mexico in 1935, Oscar Chávez studied theater and appeared in a number of films, which led to opportunities in the emerging world of the telenovela. As an actor, vocalist, and director, Chávez participated in more than 200 radio plays for Radio Universidad. Meanwhile, his musical pursuits earned him international fame, with more than 20 records to his credit. In his repertoire choices and compositions, Chávez distinguished himself not only as an arranger and performer, but as a champion of Mexican folklore. This preoccupation with preservation of tradition manifested itself throughout his work via the inclusion of not only traditional stories, but also protest songs. Viewing folklore as inherently political, Chávez would come to be known as the people's folk historian. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez