What happens when you really want to form a groundbreaking band with your friends, but don’t yet know how to play your instruments? In the case of New York’s all-female mariachi band Flor de Toloache, your band practices a lot—busking in the subway and near Times Square—until you all get really, really good. Founded in 2008, Flor de Toloache has a distinct and beautiful sound, fusing R&B, hip-hop, jazz, salsa, and soul influences with a traditionally Mexican format not usually known for including women. “I love playing with all women because of the sisterhood,” says founder Mireya Ramos. “We are blessed to have members from all different backgrounds adding so much to the uniqueness of this band.” Visit their website, mariachinyc.com, for details on how to catch them live.
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By Isabel Bartholemew
Photo by Andrei Averbuch
This article originally appeared in the October/November print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!
