El Paso Sugar

The Zoo Crew is spinning "El Paso Sugar" by Lance Lopez from his 2007 album Higher Ground, and the Zoo Freaks are vibing to its gritty blues-rock energy. This track, a standout on the album, showcases Lopez’s fiery guitar work and soulful vocals, drawing comparisons to legends like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan. In a 2016 interview with musicguy247, Lopez shared that "El Paso Sugar" was part of his live set during a high-profile performance at a Johnny Winter tribute in NYC, highlighting its significance in his repertoire. He noted the song’s inclusion in the setlist was a natural choice, pulled from Higher Ground to complement newer material, suggesting its enduring appeal in his live shows. The song’s raw, Texas-infused sound captures Lopez’s ability to blend classic blues with a modern edge, making it a perfect fit for the hippie DJs at THE ZOO.

While specific stories about "El Paso Sugar" are scarce in public interviews or social media, its live performance history adds some intrigue. A live version, featured in a collaboration with Wes Jeans on ReverbNation, emphasizes its electrifying stage presence, with Lopez’s guitar riffs igniting audiences. The song’s title evokes the border town of El Paso, possibly hinting at a narrative of longing or adventure, though Lopez hasn’t explicitly shared its inspiration. On social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, Lopez often engages with fans about his music, occasionally referencing the Higher Ground era as a pivotal moment in his career. Fans in groups like the Lance Lopez Fan Club on Facebook celebrate tracks like "El Paso Sugar" for its raw power, sharing clips of live performances that capture its intensity.

Lance Lopez’s journey as an artist began in Shreveport, Louisiana, where he was born in 1977. Music was in his blood from the start—literally. According to his bio on SonicHits, Lopez would bounce and roll in his mother’s womb during loud family parties where records by Joe Tex and K.C. and the Sunshine Band blared. His father’s friendship with Elvis Presley, forged during their Army days in Germany in the late 1950s, left a lasting mark, with young Lance inspired by Elvis footage shown to him at age three. A defining moment came in 1987 when Lopez, then 10, heard Jimi Hendrix’s "Are You Experienced" for the first time. Mistaking Hendrix for a contemporary artist, he was captivated by the swirling solos, an experience that solidified his passion for the guitar. By 1990, after moving to Dallas with his mother, Lopez began honing his craft in the vibrant Texas music scene.

Lopez’s professional career kicked off early. By 14, he was touring with soul legend Johnnie Taylor, and at 19, he joined the Buddy Miles Express, as noted on Apple Music. These experiences shaped his hard-grooving, Texas blues style, blending influences from Hendrix, Vaughan, and B.B. King. His 2004 album Wall of Soul, released with Grooveyard Records, marked a breakthrough, showcasing his power-trio skills. Higher Ground followed in 2007, cementing his reputation as a guitar slinger with a knack for epic rock songwriting. Today, Lopez continues to tour and record, sharing updates with fans via his X account and connecting with the blues community worldwide.

For more on Lance Lopez, check out his official website at lancelopezmusic.com, where you can find tour dates and merch. Follow him on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes content and live performance clips. His X profile offers real-time updates on his music and thoughts on the blues scene. Fans can also join the Lance Lopez Fan Club on Facebook to connect with other Zoo Freaks and share their love for tracks like "El Paso Sugar." While no dedicated fan websites were found, the fan club remains a lively hub for Lopez enthusiasts.