BIOGRAPHY

I started playing the guitar at age 13 and by age 14 I was able to start playing professionally. I played in a Mexican American band called Los Mocambos and a high school rock band called BelMex during my High School years.  Around this time I also began playing the bass. I began getting calls to play with various local bands and other local artists. I realized I could make more money and play more often by freelancing rather than being a part of one single band. Eventually I dove into jazz music and began getting many gigs in that genre. Because I played the guitar and bass and was also was familiar with many styles of music, I was able to play 4-5 nights a week in the area I am from.

Over the years I have given guitar and bass lessons. I have also helped out many churches by playing guitar or bass with them.  I have also been a consultant for Praise and Worship teams. 

Here is the paragraph that I'm not much of a fan of writing about because it can sound like boasting, but I know some are interested. Some of the more well known names I have had a chance to play with include: The Benny Goodman Orchestra, The Platters, The Drifters, The Coasters, Chris Vadala (saxophonist for Chuck Mangione), Mike Smith (saxophonist and contractor for Frank Sinatra), Motown Revue Show.....

My latest project, which was started in 2017, is called Troy Rangel and Friends. I have many talented musician friends who can play many styles of music. So when someone calls me looking for music, I ask them what type of style they are looking for, and then I hire various friends depending on the style of music needed for the engagement.

In the summer of 2020 I was encouraged by my friend Nervous Neal Smith to get into the home recording studio game. Since then I have been busy recording and composing compositions. 

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