Los Tres Reyes: The Last of the Great Tríos Romanticos
The Origins of Los Tres Reyes
The journey of Los Tres Reyes began in 1957, when Gilberto and Raúl Puente, twin brothers with a passion for music, accompanied Puerto Rican singer Virginia Lopez. Fate intervened when they stumbled upon a newspaper article announcing the split of Los Panchos, the legendary founding trio of the bolero genre.
Inspired, they sought out Hernando Aviles, the lead singer of Los Panchos, and together they embarked on rehearsals. While searching through Aviles’s piano bench, Gilberto discovered the sheet music for the Peruvian waltz “Ódiame” (“Hate Me”).
The Birth of a Signature Song
Aviles, with his connections in the music industry, introduced the song to a record label executive. Recognizing its potential, they decided to record it, along with another song, “Decídete.” This recording marked the birth of Los Tres Reyes and became an instant hit, selling an astonishing 10 million copies in 1958.
The Heyday of Tríos Romanticos
The music scene during the heyday of trío music was fiercely competitive. Tríos from across Latin America vied for the best songs and arrangements. Each trio had its own distinct style, and Los Tres Reyes stood out with Gilberto’s virtuosic requinto playing.
“Ódiame” became their signature song, showcasing their unique style and solidifying their position as one of the most innovative and influential tríos of the era.
The Importance of Individuality
Imitation was frowned upon in the world of trío music. Each group fiercely protected its arrangements and interpretations. “Even just a little phrase,” explains Evita Cárdenas, Gilberto’s daughter and Bebo’s wife, “had to be different.”
This emphasis on individuality fostered creativity and innovation, driving the evolution of the trío genre.
Family Ties and Musical Harmony
Family played a pivotal role in the music of Los Tres Reyes. The twin brothers, Gilberto and Raúl, shared a natural vocal harmony. Bebo Cárdenas, the current third member of the trio, attributes their seamless blending to their sibling connection.
“Since they’ve been working together since they were 8 years old,” says Cárdenas, “they know each other and have the same style. They look at each other and know what the other is doing.”
This intimate musical conversation between the brothers has created a string duo with an unmatched precision and evenness.
The Legacy of Los Tres Reyes
As the last of the great trío romáticos, Los Tres Reyes left an indelible mark on Latin American music. Their signature song, “Ódiame,” remains a timeless classic, while their innovative arrangements and virtuosic performances continue to inspire musicians and delight audiences worldwide.
Their emphasis on individuality and family ties exemplifies the essence of the trío genre, preserving its rich tradition while pushing its boundaries.
