Vaqueros hang out with Cheyenne – The Valley's Student Station

Pete Mendoza

Last week, Student Union hosted “Union Unplugged” featuring two members of the country band called Cheyenne. The band played original music and top hits.

Guitarist Vincent Mena said playing a duo is a new experience for the band.

“It’s our first time doing a duo gig like this,” Mena said. “Usually we have a four or five piece band, so this is a first, but it’s a lot of fun being here at UTRGV.”

Singer Derick Garza said most of their audience is typically middle-aged. He said it is good to perform in front of a different crowd that also enjoys the music.

Garza said the band started in April of last year, performing their first show on March 31, 2023. He said the band has come a long way since then and made a lot of progress.

Garza said one of the greatest moments of performing is when the band is completely in sync.

“I’d say my favorite thing is when all the band is locked in,” Garza said. “So, when the whole band is locked in you feel the stage start feeling like a trampoline. That’s the best feeling in the world.”

Program Specialist for the College of Education Jacqueline Gutierrez said she enjoyed every moment of the event.

“I think it’s beautiful how they have it set up,” Gutierrez said. “It feels like a little cozy corner where you can listen to beautiful music.”

Student Union Associate Director Sergio Martinez said they try to pick out local artists for Union Unplugged.

“The idea is to highlight students or alumni that have performed here or have a connection,” Martinez said. “And show off the talent that we have in the RGV in a different format, like this band we have today, Cheyenne. At least four of the members are all UTRGV alumni from the School of Music.”

He said the performance was a teaser event for Homecoming. All members of the band will be playing this week at Homecoming festivities.

Garza is looking forward to an exciting event.