Elizabeth City, N.C. — Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 – Oct. 15, with “The Lowriders Theme: Cars, Culture and Music.” Professor of Music Douglas A. Jackson is spearheading the project, debuting two original compositions—the title track “The Lowriders Theme” and “Bouncing with My Friends,” translated into Spanish as “Rebotando con Mis Amigos.”
Jackson collaborated with Gabriela de Villar, Ph.D., spanish language consultant and visiting professor of foreign language at ECSU, to highlight the cultural and musical traditions of lowrider communities. He said the music is designed to connect sound to story, capturing the spirit of a tradition that is both artistic and communal. “It’s not uncommon to see these beautiful, candy-painted rides out strolling low and slow for religious holidays such as Good Friday and Christmas or posted up at santuarios for weddings and christenings,” he noted.
Lowriders, celebrated in Jackson’s compositions, trace their roots to the post-World War II era. According to historians, exact origins are debated, with some pointing to Southern California, while others cite Tijuana, Texas or New Mexico. The style grew popular among young Chicanos who embraced the art of rolling bajito y suavecito—low and slow. Today, lowriders thrive in Española, Chimayó, Albuquerque and other New Mexico towns, as well as in California communities such as East LA, Compton and the Crenshaw district.
Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, honors the history and culture of U.S. Latino and Hispanic communities. It began in 1968 as a commemorative week California Congressman George E. Brown introduced during a period of rising recognition for the contributions of Hispanic Americans. It later expanded into a monthlong celebration that continues nationwide.
Weaving music, culture and history, Jackson’s project positions ECSU as part of the national tribute to Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrates the legacy of a movement that continues to live on through cars, culture and song.