Banda Los Recoditos finds inspiration at St. Jude

Throughout their career, Mexican music group Banda Los Recoditos has shown that their connection to children goes far beyond the stage. They have not only taken part in events supporting kids but have also built a bond with them through their music, even dedicating songs that celebrate the joys of childhood.

With that same spirit, several members of the band traveled to Memphis, Tennessee, to experience firsthand the work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, a place they said they had admired from afar for years but were now able to see up close.

From the very beginning, the visit sparked a genuine connection. They said they found much more than they expected. The band especially highlighted the close-knit environment between staff and patients, as well as the way meaningful moments are created even in the midst of complex circumstances. After gaining a deeper understanding of the hospital’s mission, they said they feel a responsibility to share it and inspire others.

This is your first time visiting the campus. What inspired you to come here and see the work being done? 
Santos de Jesús Perez “JeyPi” (vocalist): We had followed St. Jude for many years alongside Banda El Recodo, a legendary Mexican banda group founded by the Lizarraga family, but being here in person created a strong sense of empathy. This is a place where gender, race or religion don’t matter, what matters is giving love and a full life to every child here. As Banda Los Recoditos, we feel very honored to be here and to learn about a cause that is much bigger than people might imagine.

What impressed you the most during your visit? 
Freddy Alvarado (trumpet player): We were impressed by how the entire staff works. They give their all to provide children with an experience that feels close to a normal life, helping them feel at home with their families, making sure they have all they need and supporting them through such a difficult time in the best way possible.

Banda Los Recoditos was formed among family and friends. St. Jude St. Jude also places a strong emphasis on family. What connection do you feel seeing that same sense of community here? 
Santos: After seeing it, we felt a deep connection and so much love, but what stood out most was the comprehensive support they provide. They don’t just care for the children — they care for the entire family, giving them the space they deserve. It’s incredible to learn, for example, that they celebrate siblings with a special day and even host graduations when patients move up a grade. This truly is a big family that includes people from all over the world.

St. Jude represents hope for thousands of families. As a band, what does it mean for you to be part of that message? 
Brahiton Gonzalez (tuba player): It means a lot to us, and we’re very grateful for the invitation. Being here helped us understand the impact of this mission — sharing knowledge with other hospitals and scientific researchers. That made us want to learn more and help inspire others to join this cause.

Freddy: As an international band, we want to use our platform, just as we share our music and culture, to share the St. Jude mission. Important medical discoveries happen here that change the lives of many children, and we all need to support that.

You’ve been able to bring generations together through your music and lyrics. Many young people and children look up to you. What message would you share about the importance of generosity and offering hope? 
Santos: Hope is essential to overcoming challenges and to showing the world how children should be treated with inclusion and without discrimination. During this visit, it meant so much to see so many Latino patients, as well as Spanish-speaking staff members working here with such love for those who need it most.

St. Jude exists mainly thanks to donors. After this visit, what would you say to your fans to encourage them to learn about and support this mission? 
Freddy: We want them to know that every donation makes a real difference for these children. We encourage them to become Partners In Hope®, St. Jude monthly donors. In doing so, they’ll help children achieve their dreams and experience so many joyful moments. And remember, every small contribution adds up, so if you can give yours, this is the perfect time to do it.