El Gato negro Album Fundraiser
At Laboratorio Arts we were over the moon the first time we had the privilege of collaborating with Grammy award winning Tejano legend Ruben “El Gato Negro” Ramos. Over the years our creative relationship with Ruben has grown, and now we are excited to embark on something larger together - a brand new studio album!
We Are recording with Ruben Ramos!
photo by Sarah Wilson
For the next three weeks will be fundraising in an effort to finish the album. Our goal is to raise $15,000. Your tax-exempt donations will enable us to cover recording studio costs, the mixing and mastering of the album, a photoshoot along with the album artwork, and all VINYL pressing and CD printing costs. Below you’ll find a list of incentives that will serve as our small way of saying thank you for your generous support!
HELP US REACH OUR GOAL
*All thank you gifts, including albums, will ship in mid-January ahead of the official February album release date.
THE PENNANT PACKAGE: $20
We get it. You stream your music but still appreciate a bit of swag. Well say hello to your very own El Gato Negro pennant! Lovingly printed on felt and ready for that wall of fame you’ve been working on.
The Signed CD Package: $30
Are you someone who still enjoys playing a CD in your car’s stereo system? Get your signed copy of the album on compact disc here!
The Signed VINYL Package: $50
Here is your chance to drop the needle on your very own signed copy of the album on VINYL!
The LINER NOTES Package: $150
Let us place your name in the thank you section of the liner notes of the album artwork. There it will serve as a testament to the commitment you made in helping us create the album. In addition, we’ll send you a copy of the CD or the VINYL - your choice!
MAKE THE MUSIC!
You are excited to help but would rather keep your countertops free and clear. Got it! No problem. Thanks!
EXECUTIVE Producer: $2500+
If Ruben’s story and this project resonate with you, and you have the capacity to give in a larger way, we would love to hear from you. As an executive producer of the album you will be instrumental in ensuring Ruben’s artistry and legacy are preserved for generations to come. Please reach out to us directly and let’s come up with a plan to honor your generosity in a way that fits your giving style.
MORE ABOUT RUBEN
At 85, Ruben Ramos, known as “El Gato Negro,” still walks on stage with the same iconic swagger and soul that made him a household name across generations. Dubbed the “Tony Bennett of Tejano,” Ruben's story is not just one of musical longevity, but a chronicle of cultural resilience. From singing in segregated Texas dance halls as a child to forming his band “The Mexican Revolution” during the Chicano movement, Ruben helped define the orquesta sound and gave voice to a community navigating identity, pride, and struggle in a changing America.
