Chicago’s Cielito Lindo mariachi band led by Father Juan Lucero and his 7 children

CHICAGO – What does a musician father do when his seven children also share the gift of music? Form a family mariachi band, of course.

And that’s exactly what dad Juan Lucero did with his talented kids aged 8-19. When they get together – whether it’s spending time with family or playing music – it’s heavenly, and that’s why Juan called the band “Cielitio Lindo” or “beautiful sky.”

The group has performed in some of Chicago’s biggest venues, performing at a Chicago Bulls game and singing the national anthem for the Cubs opening.

But Juan said that while these unique events are amazing, the family is really excited to make that direct connection with people in smaller venues, whether it’s singing in a restaurant, a birthday party, or a serenade. in a relationship with. on an anniversary or engagement.

Every Monday night, Cielito Lindo can be heard performing at Old Pueblo Cantina, a restaurant in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.

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In 2020, Cielito Lindo experienced difficult times during pandemic lockdowns. Eighty percent of their reservations dried up and they feared losing their home. But a neighbor set up a GoFundMe page and Chicagoans and people across the country raised it to the tune of $ 65,000.

The Luceros were able to stay at home and, despite the difficulty and uncertainty, made lemonade from lemons. They have used the lockdown time of the pandemic as an outlet for other creative endeavors.

Diego, one of the group’s sons, used the extra time to compose his own song, “Welcome to Light City,” and posted it on Spotify.

Brother Miguel started making a video game called “Gilded Age”, which he is still working on today with friends. He also did the artwork for his brother’s song.

Although the pandemic is ongoing, the family group is still receiving reservations. People who have heard of their story want to help them by reserving them for their events.

Cielito Lindo is keeping its fingers crossed that these bookings continue through the fall and winter months. But if they don’t, Juan says they’ll adapt and find a way to be entertained online.

With a name meaning “beautiful paradise,” they may also receive a little help from above.

To book Cielito Lindo, go to cielitolindo.co.