Source Set 15: Filipino American Bands

Source 15.A: Rosario Lopez Interviewed by Hana Yamamoto

In this interview clip, Rosario Lopez discusses her father, Arsenio “Archie” Soblechero Lopez's career as a musician. With other Filipino migrants who came to the US during the 1920s and 30s, he was in a band called "Archie and the Islanders." The band played at Filipino American dances and events in Watsonville, Santa Cruz, and throughout the West Coast. In the interview, Rosario remembers singing with her father's band during an event held in Watsonville.

"Rosario Lopez interviewed by Hana Yamamoto Links to an external site.." May 9, 2023. Lopez Family Collection, Watsonville is in the Heart: A Community Archive and Research Initiative.

Source 15.A: Archie and the Islanders Performing

A framed photograph of members of Archie Lopez's band, "Archie and the Islanders," performing. In the band, Archie Lopez played the saxophone, Alex Tabag played the tenor saxophone, Tommy Tomaio played the guitar, Gary Reguindin played the drums, Benny Tumbaga played the trumpet, and Chris (last name unknown) played the piano. The band often played at events for Filipino American community organizations.

Photo described in text above above

Unknown. Archie and the Islanders Performing Links to an external site.. Date unknown. Photograph. Lopez Family Collection, Watsonville is in the Heart: A Community Archive and Research Initiative.