Rubén Valtierra plays keys with the inimitable and iconic Weird Al Yankovic. In Part 1 we hear about Rubén’s chops as a musician and his general approach to life, you’ll understand why he’s been at the top for such a long period of time.

To listen / watch:

Discussion topics covered during the show (links will open in new tab):  

Rubén’s Website

Van Cliburn performs in Moscow, 1958 (on YouTube)

Rubén performing with Rush Hour 1986

Dr Demento 20th Anniversary TV Special

The Saga Begins – Al sends Rubén home

Recreating the diverse sounds and styles across Weird Al’s huge catalogue

Weird Al show timing

How Rubén nearly ended up as part of Jimmy Kimmel’s house band

The Simpsons – Three Gays of the Condo

Glenn Hughes Live in Moscow 1995

Sampling a Hammond B3 to use on a Kurzweil

Why Rubén loves Kurweil keyboards

Sound design for a Weird Al tour

Weird Al vs Tower of Power

What’s Weird Al like as a boss? (spoiler: he’s a great boss)

Rubén’s bucket list: Santana (and a shout out to David K Mathews)

The Valtierra Latin Orchestra

The upcoming Weird Al Movie

Why Weird Al is a true, great artist

Not mentioned but worth a watch: Weird Al and the band play 77 cover songs over 77 nights.

Tag a keyboard player: See Part 2

Desert Island Discs: See Part 2

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