On Ozomatli’s new single “Red Line,” triple GRAMMY®-winning genre-bending ensemble Ozomatli gives a voice to America’s working class—shining a light on the struggles of those navigating life without privilege, protection, or platform. Released amid a national reckoning over immigration and inequality, “Red Line” is both protest anthem and cultural mirror, capturing the lived realities behind the headlines.
“This track is a statement of solidarity,” says founding member Raul Pacheco. “We’re singing for everyone trying to make a life in a system built to hold them back.”
Their message echoes recent cultural analyses like The Guardian’s exploration of how border and labor policies in the U.S. were shaped by racism and economic exploitation—realities Ozomatli has confronted through music and activism since day one.
Ozomatli didn’t just drop “Red Line”—they brought it to the streets. This spring, the band performed the song live atop a flatbed truck in downtown Los Angeles during the No Kings protest, standing shoulder to shoulder with immigrant and worker rights movements in a nod to their own activist origins.
Now, they’re taking that message on the road with their 30 Revolutions Tour, celebrating three decades of music, madness, and familia.
“Celebrating 30 years of music, madness, and familia? That’s not just a milestone — that’s badass,” says saxophonist/vocalist Ulises Bella. “Through all the chaos in the world, one thing hasn’t changed: Ozomatli brings the vibes that bring people together.”
As part of their ongoing commitment to community and wellness, Ozomatli will donate $1 from every ticket sold to Sweet Relief and Backline to support mental health services for music industry professionals.
“You see, the journey means even more now,” adds bassist Wil-Dog Abers. “Ozomatli’s got more to say and do. The story’s still being written.”
Ozomatli was forged in 1995 in the heart of LA’s grassroots labor movement—formed by musicians and activists supporting a worker-run youth center in a reclaimed downtown building. That spirit of transformation remains central to their sound, which fuses salsa, funk, cumbia, reggae, hip-hop, jazz, and more into a high-energy, genre-defying experience.
Their six original members—Asdru Sierra, Raul Pacheco, Ulises Bella, Wil-Dog Abers, Jiro Yamaguchi, and Justin Poree—have stayed true to their founding ethos: “We take you around the world through the heartbeat of Los Angeles.”
Across three decades, Ozomatli has earned accolades including three GRAMMY® Awards, cultural ambassador honors from the U.S. State Department, and appearances on major platforms like The Today Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Austin City Limits—all while using their platform to advocate for immigrant rights, education, mental health, and equity.
“This tour is not just a celebration of the past,” says Justin Poree, “it’s about reconnecting with the communities and cultures that shaped us. Every stop will feel like a reunion.”
Adds Raul Pacheco, “I’ve fulfilled a dream of playing music for 30 years with people who’ve become my family. Now we get to celebrate that with the fans who’ve supported us all this time.”
“So get ready,” concludes Ulises Bella, “we’re coming with love, rhythm, and just the right amount of noise. The 30 Revolutions Tour is on… and yes, Ozomatli is still very much in the house!”