News Summary
San Antonio has unveiled a mosaic mural honoring Ramiro ‘Ram’ Ayala, the beloved owner of punk rock venue Taco Land. To commemorate his legacy, the city is hosting the 20th annual Ram Jam festival featuring over 30 bands, including the Hickoids. This two-day event will celebrate the vibrant punk scene that Taco Land fostered, ensuring Ayala’s cultural impact lives on. The festival will take place at the Corn Pound and serves as a tribute to Ayala and the late Doug Morgan, reinforcing the city’s music heritage.
San Antonio Unveils Mosaic Mural and Plans 20th Annual Festival to Honor Punk Rock Icon Ramiro “Ram” Ayala
A mosaic mural has been unveiled in San Antonio to commemorate Ramiro “Ram” Ayala, the owner of the legendary punk rock venue Taco Land, who was tragically killed 20 years ago. The mural serves as a permanent tribute to Ayala’s impact on the local music scene and the cultural legacy of Taco Land, which became a focal point for punk rock in South Texas.
To further honor Ayala’s contributions, a two-day festival named Ram Jam will occur on June 28 and 29. This event, marking its 20th edition, will take place at the Corn Pound in Windcrest, a venue known for its vibrant music scene. The Hickoids, a notable band that was among Taco Land’s earliest acts, will headline the festival on Saturday, promising to deliver a nostalgic experience for attendees.
Taco Land, once situated in the Pearl Brewery area, has since transitioned to a popular tourist destination. During its operational years, it hosted many punk rock bands from across Texas and even out-of-state artists, making it a vital launching pad for aspiring musicians. The venue was famous for its welcoming yet candid atmosphere, with Ayala known for his genuine, if blunt, manner of greeting patrons.
Festival Highlights
This year’s Ram Jam is set to be a vibrant celebration of underground music, featuring over 30 bands that once performed at Taco Land. Attendees will also experience the spirit of the dive bar culture that Ayala cherished. The festival is being organized by Roland “Nightrocker” Fuentes and aims to preserve the ethos of Taco Land as a family reunion and a memorial for Ayala and the late Doug “Gypsy” Morgan, Taco Land’s doorman, who also lost his life on June 23, 2005.
The Corn Pound hosts several music-related facilities, including a multi-track recording studio and a nonprofit dedicated to preserving music history, making it an appropriate backdrop for this tribute festival. Gates will open at 11 a.m. on both days of the festival, with music scheduled to conclude around 10 p.m. Attendees can access ticket information and updates online as the event date approaches.
Legacy of Taco Land
Taco Land was much more than just a venue; it was a cultural hub where punk rock flourished. It played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of numerous musicians, turning hobbies into professional paths. Ayala once expressed concerns about the future of Taco Land after his passing, suggesting the idea of “there will be another Ram.” His foresight highlighted the importance of the venue’s legacy and the music scene it nurtured.
As San Antonio gears up for this annual festival, the community looks forward to celebrating the raw, chaotic, and unapologetically underground spirit that defined Taco Land, ensuring that Ayala’s memory continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
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Additional Resources
- KENS5: Taco Land and Ram Jam
- Wikipedia: Punk Rock
- Spectrum Local News: Ram Ayala’s Legend
- Google Search: Ramiro “Ram” Ayala
- San Antonio Current: 20th Annual Ram Jam
- Google Scholar: Taco Land San Antonio
- San Antonio Current: Metal City USA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Taco Land
- San Antonio Current: Fredstock Music Festival
- Google News: Ram Jam San Antonio
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
