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THE BiTS INTERVIEW: Evelyn Rubio

Evelyn Rubio lives in Houston, Texas. She was born in Mexico City. Since
moving to the USA Evelyn has become a go-to sax played and singer. Following

her move to Texas, Evelyn was mentored by Calvin Owens, formerly the
musical director of the BB King Band and a top-flight trumpet player in his

own right. Evelyn sought out Calvin because of her desire to learn to play the
blues.

Evelyn’s dual language (English and Spanish) album “Hombres” has been a
top hit around the world. Working with Calvin Owens’ Blues Orchestra Evelyn
has developed her skills in playing blues music and remains at the forefront

of musicians from Mexico who play, and love, blues music.

Ian McKenzie spoke to her on the telephone at her home in Houston.

ER: Hello.

BiTS: Is that Evelyn?

ER: Yes.

BiTS: Hello, it's Ian McKenzie, Evelyn.

ER: Oh yeah, how are you?

BiTS: How are you?

ER: I'm fine. I think I should go to the
car, maybe, but I don't know. Do you hear
so much noise, or you're fine?

BiTS: No I’m fine. Are you happy to do this
interview now?

ER: Yes.

BiTS: Okay, let's make a start. Tell me something
about your upbringing. I gather you were born and
raised in Mexico City, which, as we see it on the

television in this country, is a pretty rough place.
Were you raised in a rough place?

ER: Well, I would say yeah. I grew up in the

barrio. Do you understand the word barrio?

BiTS: I understand the word, but what does it
actually mean? I mean, are these poor areas?