The Mike Torres Band (MTB) stands out as one of the most popular Latino show bands in Northern California today. With more than 30 years of experience to its credit, the MTB has definitely earned its respect as one of the premiere Latino musical acts gracing stages throughout California and many of the southwestern and midwestern states.

The MTB is a family business with the spearhead of the organization being Mike Torres, Sr. (Guitar and Vocals). Mike began playing and singing music as a young child. As a teen and young adult, he sang with many trios, mariachi groups and several musical groups. He ultimately formed the MTB in the late 60’s.

Before long, Mike Sr. was joined on stage by sons Mike Jr. (Keyboards, Bass, Accordion, Vocals, Guitar, Percussion, Musical Director/Arranger), Martin (Drums/Business Manager), and by his youngest daughter Christina (Timbales, Keyboards, Vocals, MTB Promotions).

The MTB is currently three generations strong since Mike Torres III (Trumpet, Timbales, Keyboards, Vocals) became a full-time member in 2002. In 2003, Mike’s grandson, Stephen Torres-Esquer (Saxophone, Vocals) joined the band full-time as well. Behind the scenes, assisting with stage prep, lighting and sound engineering is another grandson, Angelo Torres-Esquer.

Most recently in late 2004, the MTB added its newest member – bassist Neal Sanchez. He is a complementary addition to the group.

MTB is a family powerhouse whose combined musical talents are next to none. Add to this blend a soulful brass line and beat-filled congero, and prepare your ears for a musical adventure like no other!

The primary success of the MTB is its versatility. The recipe for their success is a mixture of many things: Spanish and English, old with the new, classic with the contemporary, traditional meets funky – the end result is a savvy and tasteful style all their own.

“Musica Para Todos Los Gustos” or “Music for All Tastes” is the band’s motto. The MTB plays most any style music: Cumbias, Rancheras, Boleros, Tejano (Tex-Mex), Norteno, Salsa, Merengue, Top 40, Old School, Country, Jazz, Big Band, Latin Rock, Classic Rock – just to name a few. Blend these styles together for a combination unique to the MTB. The MTB’s versatility has put them in demand because clients realize that no matter the crowd, the MTB will satisfy and leave them asking for more! A top-notch professional sound and lighting system add to the eye and ear catching show.

The MTB has had a long and successful musical career that has led them to open for and perform on the same bill with the following big-name artists in various genres:

Tierra, War, El Chicano, Malo, Pete Escobedo, Los Lobos and Tony Melendez

Little Joe y La Familia, Johnny Hernandez, Freddy Fender, La Sombra, Mazz, David Lee Garza, Jay Perez, David Marez, Ram Herrera, Gary Hobbs, Laura Canales, Shelly Lares, Michael Salgado, Jimmy Edward, The Latin Breed, Estrella, Inocencia, Tierra Tejana, Johnny Bustamante, Lisa Lopez and Arturo Montes

Gap Band, Teena Marie, Zapp and El Debarge

Kid Frost, Mellow Man Ace, Lighter Shade of Brown, Jaya

Los Rieleros del Norte, Banda Pachuco and Banda Archangel R-15

Lalo Guerrero and Cuco Sanchez

The MTB firmly believes in giving back to the community. Throughout the years, they have donated hundreds of performances to various noteworthy causes, a few of which include: The American Cancer Society, Easter Seals, Neighborhood Watch, Navidad en la Communidad, The United Way, Earthquake Relief Effort, Flood Relief Effort, Earth Day Celebrations, Cinco de Mayo events, 16 de Septiembre events, Cesar Chavez events, September 11th Fundraisers, various scholarship fundraisers, Su Salud Health Fair, numerous telethon efforts, community parades, various city music in the park series, United Farm Worker Events, Chicano/Latino Youth Leadership functions, MECHA functions, various college and university functions, California Youth Authority, and numerous other performances for various other Latino and awareness organizations.

The MTB annually assists numerous Catholic churches in their fundraising efforts. Since the band’s inception in the 70’s, they have contributed hundreds of hours of performance which have helped various churches meet and/or exceed their fundraising goals. MTB takes great pride in being able to assist any organization in need.