Robert “Rabbit” Jaramillo, Pioneering Chicano Rocker of Cannibal & The Headhunters, Dies at 82
Robert ”Rabbit” Jaramillo, the charismatic frontman and guitarist of the groundbreaking East Los angeles Chicano rock group Cannibal & The headhunters, has died at the age of 82. His passing marks the end of an era for a band that briefly blazed across the national music scene in the mid-1960s, leaving an indelible mark on Chicano rock and influencing generations of musicians. jaramillo passed away in Pueblo, Colorado, on February 26, 2024, after a long illness.
Cannibal & the Headhunters weren’t just a band; they were a cultural phenomenon. Emerging from the vibrant East L.A. music scene,they injected a unique blend of R&B,rock ‘n’ roll,and thier own Chicano identity into the mainstream. Their energetic performances and signature song, “Land of 1,000 Dances,” catapulted them to national attention.
A Brush with Beatlemania
The band’s 1965 appearance on NBC’s “Hullabaloo” proved pivotal. According to band members’ recollections,their electrifying performance caught the eye – and ear – of Paul McCartney. he reportedly told Beatles manager Brian epstein he wanted Cannibal & the Headhunters to open for the Fab Four.
“My dad never really knew anything about the Beatles,” shared his daughter, Sylvia Trujillo. “To him, all he cared about was that he was singing.” This anecdote highlights Jaramillo’s humble nature, even amidst a potential career-defining possibility.
Their story is a fascinating glimpse into a moment when a Chicano band stood on the cusp of mainstream success. However, as Trujillo explained, navigating the music industry proved challenging.
A Short, Bright Flame
The Headhunters’ time in the spotlight was tragically brief. jaramillo often spoke of managerial issues and financial struggles that ultimately led to the band’s dissolution. Despite the challenges, the impact of their music resonated deeply within the Chicano community and beyond.
Here’s a speedy look at the band’s key members:
* robert “Rabbit” Jaramillo: Lead vocals, guitar
* Frank “frankie” Garcia: Bass
* Joe Lopez: Drums
* Peter “Pete” Hernandez: Keyboards (later replaced by Robert’s brother, David Jaramillo)
After the band’s initial run, Jaramillo spent years working for the Santa Fe railroad. But the music never truly left him. He rekindled his passion in the 1990s, reforming the Headhunters with Gregory Esparza joining in 1999 after garcia’s passing.
Legacy and Rediscovery
Rehearsals were frequent, though public performances were limited due to a copyright dispute over the band’s name. Esparza,who later fronted the legendary Thee Midniters,described the experience as “reliving what they had at such a young age – reaching the top of the mountain at faster-than-light speed.”
The band’s story is a testament to the power of music and the enduring spirit of a generation. They faced obstacles,but their dedication to their craft never wavered.
Jaramillo was formally recognized for his contributions in 2017 with an induction into the Chicano Music hall of Fame. The ceremony in Denver was a powerful moment, as he famously tossed aside his cane and danced to “Land of 1,000 Dances,” proving his passion remained undimmed.
A Man of faith and family
Beyond his musical achievements,Jaramillo was a devoted family man and a longtime member of Good Shepherd Fellowship in Pueblo,Colorado. He frequently performed gospel songs at church, including “The Blood That Jesus Shed for Me” by Andraé Crouch. He also enjoyed karaoke with his grandson, Daniel Hernandez, favoring classic oldies.
“No one knew who he was, and he never said who he was,” Hernandez recalled. “But after he sang, we would always have people buying us beers and telling him, ‘Hey, you’re a great singer!'” This speaks volumes about Jaramillo’s innate talent and the joy he found in sharing his gift.
Robert ”Rabbit” Jaramillo is survived by two brothers, eight children,
