In 1964, Basil Rodriguez began playing the trumpet in elementary school. At the same time, 28-year-old Herb Alpert was a rising star with the hit single The Lonely Bull by Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass. By 1966, Basil was playing along with the Tijuana Brass records that his parents were listening to. He went on to have a successful career as a professional trumpet player and arranger, playing in show clubs throughout the country in the 1970s and backing up numerous recording artists. He also had a 38-year run as assistant music director and staff musician at Busch Gardens.

Now, Basil has come full circle to his first influence: the music of Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass. Basil has meticulously recreated the arrangements that were recorded by the band back in the 60s and added other memorable hits from artists of the A&M label. Just as Herb did in the 60s, Basil has put together a band of eight seasoned musicians and vocalists to form The Ultimate Tijuana Brass Tribute: South of the Border.

South of the Border bandmembers include Basil Rodriguez (trumpet); Kirsten Joyer (featured vocalist); Patrick McKenzie (trumpet); David Hope (trombone); Paul Buzine (guitar); Al Hurley (bass guitar / classical guitar); Richard “Stretch” Bruyn (keys); Manny Betancourt (percussion); Wink Warren (vocalist / drums).