Fobia is a five-man Mexican rock band that formed in 1987. They have been signed with major labels Sony, RCA, and BMG over the years. The band released a total of nine albums over the years, some of which were live albums recorded during their tours. Most of their albums were considered a critical success and they managed to win several awards over the years.
As with most rock bands, they have gone through their periods of strife and turmoil. The band eventually disbanded at one point and remained separated for many years. They later reunited, released new albums, and began to tour in the United States and Mexico.
Rising From The Boom
The late 1980’s was an important time for rock in Mexico. The “Rock En Tu Idioma” campaign (or “rock in your language”) was going strong. The goal of the campaign was to promote the growing number of bands from Mexico, Argentina, and other Spanish-speaking countries. The campaigned was primarily between 1986 and 1991, during which several well known Spanish-speaking rock bands would emerge.
Fobia was one of the bands that would appear in response to the rock en Tu Idioma campaign. Other notable bands that were formed around the same time included Neon, Mana, and Los Amantes de Lola. This campaign not only led to the formation of many new rock bands, but it also encouraged the opening of several new venues where these bands could play.
The band Fobia was pieced together by Leonardo de Lozanne and Francisco “Paco” Huidobro in 1987. Other original members of the band included Gabriel Kuri playing the drums, Inaki Vazquez playing the keyboard, and Javier Cha Ramirez playing the bass guitar. Paco was the lead songwriter and the guitarist. Lozanne was the lead vocalist. There would be several significant changes to this lineup over the years.
Later that year, there was a “rock en Tu Idioma” contest held in Mexico City. Fobia did not win the contest, but their appearance did earn the attention of executives who worked for Ariola Records. They would eventually have Saul Hernadez produce a demo and Ariola would sign the band.
From The First Album
Fobia released their first album in 1990 and it was a huge success. Many of the Spanish rock bands at the time were heavily influenced by the same sources. Fobia managed to carve out a niche with some original sounds. Their first album was entitled Fobia and contained some of their most well-known hits, including “El Crucifijo” and “El Microbito”.
Fobia released several more albums over the following years. Mundo Feliz was released in 1991, Leche was released in 1993, and Amor Chiquito was released in 1995. Some of these albums included collaboration with well-known rock groups and even a famous Argentine composer. The band was also part of a Queen tribute album in 1997.
Separation And Reunion
The band parted ways in 1997 and several of the artists tried to focus on a solo career. It wasn’t until 2004 that the band decided to reunite and return to the studio. Their first act as a newly reunited band was to release a greatest hits albums entitled Wow 87*04. Shortly afterward they would release their fifth studio album entitled Rosa Venus.
Fobia has yet to release a sixth studio album, though hopes are high. Their latest song, “La Busqueda” is said to come from an album with a planned release in the near future. They have managed to maintain a live presence with tours in the United States and Latin America. The band has also performed at award shows, festivals, and even in the opening spot for the Rolling Stones.
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