Biography

Rene has been creating and performing music for the majority of his life. Having played in every major city in Texas, such as Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, he has also made a name for himself in neighboring states such as Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma to name a few. Though not a stranger to the stage, each performance is treated as if it were his last. Whether Abilene or Austin, Rene’s stage presence never diminishes. Originating from Runge, TX, Rene credits much of his musical ambition to his older brother Juan Zapata Jr., who would make numerous trips from San Antonio to teach and coach the young budding musician. With support from his parents Juan and Martha Zapata, and after performing with his brothers Juan and Manuel in “La Banda Jefe” in his younger years, Rene was offered a bass-playing job with a local band “Los Artisticos”. After learning more about the business aspects of performing, and with encouragement from his brother Juan and the rest of his family, Rene branched off and started his own group, “Grupo Presidente”. After many local appearances and performances, Rene decided to move to San Antonio where he could better expand his musical wings. After several auditions the bookings began to come. With a unique sound and style and after many local club shows and TV appearances, the band was getting noticed. Over the past ten years Rene Zapata has recorded various albums with various labels, including “Soy Feliz” and “Nunca Te He Deiado De Ouerer”, both of which garnered nominations from the Tejano Music Awards; one for “Most Promising Band” and one for “Album of the Year I Progressive Conjunto”. In 1997, after a few member changes, Rene began to work with some very experienced, talented players for several years before deciding to go back into the studio. Jerry Atencio provides guitar, back up vocals, and song writing skills to the group. James Longoria, a perfectionist on the keyboard and accordion, takes musical arrangement very seriously. Leroy Cruz provides the solid, steady beat that makes you want to dance. And of course, the prankster of the band is Rene Zapata. Years of practice, determination, and love for the music and fans helped to strengthen the band’s skill and performance. One day while searching for a band to perform at his brother’s wedding reception, Julian J. Johnson, Executive of Golden Eagle Records, happened upon a Rene CD. After a brief listen Julian realized that this group truly had what it took to be the next big thing in Tejano music, with a little help of course. After some discussions between Golden Eagle Records and Rene, a new name for the group was adopted along with some musical style changes that both felt would help propel “Rene Z” to the top of the billboard charts. “Cree En Mi”, set to be released in October of 2002, is primed to have the most energetic and unique style in Tejano music, ranging from the original tune “Vuelve a Mi” which showcases Rene’s vocal talents to “La Borradita”, a high energy dance number. Also included on the album is “Mil Abrazos”, a famous number by Sunny & The Sunliners, done with a new twist. “Cree En Mi”, an original song written by Rene Zapata and also the title of the forthcoming album, speaks completely for the album as well as the group. One must listen to this number to truly appreciate the talent pouring forth on this album. This album is sure to be a big hit when you remember one thing - “Cree En Mi” (Believe In Me) Courtesy Golden Eagle Records