Daniel Valdez

Daniel Valdez (born April 27, 1949) is an American actor, musician, composer, and activist. He is best known for his work as musical director of the films Zoot Suit and La Bamba (1987).

Early life Daniel Valdez was born to Francisco and Armida Valdez. His brother is Luis Valdez. In 1966, Valdez joined Cesar Chavez's United Farm Workers union.

Career Valdez and his brother co-founded the theater group, Teatro Campesino. In 1973, Valdez's first solo album, Mestizo, became the first Chicano album to be produced by a major label, A&M Records. In 1981, Valdez reprised his role in the film adaptation of the same name, for which he also co-wrote the original music. He also composed music for the play as well.

In 1987, Valdez served as an associate producer of La Bamba, the biopic based on the life of Ritchie Valens. The project, which became a hit, was a "life-long dream" of Valdez's that came true.

In 2010, Valdez acted in the TheatreWorks production of José Cruz González's play, Sunsets and Margaritas at the Lucie Stern Theatre.

Filmography Feature films Which Way Is Up? (1977) The China Syndrome (1979) Zoot Suit (1981) La Bamba (1987) Born in East L.A. (1987)

Discography Studio albums Mestizo (1973)