In the heyday of Las Vegas lounge entertainment, Kenny Laursen was billed as “The World’s Most Contagious Entertainer” of the era. 17 year old Kenny first arrived on the Las Vegas scene in August of 1960. He was first spotted entertaining the crowds at the Showboat Hotel and Casino with rockabilly performer Bob Luman, who […]

Welcome new Las Vegas Blues Society members the Mesquite Cafe Blues Band! They are making their TCR debut in the showlounge for a free no cover show! Let's welcome them to Vegas as only Vegas knows how!!

Mesquite’s Dynamic Duo: Paul and Linda Villanueva’s Musical Journey in the Heart of the Desert

Within the vibrant community of Sun City Mesquite, Paul and Linda Villanueva’s journey from southern California to the heart of Nevada is a tale of having fun during retirement and the birth of a passionate musical endeavor. Little did they know that their move in 2015 would eventually lead to the formation of the Mesquite Cafe Blues Band, a dynamic musical duo that has become a local sensation.

The Villanueva’s story began when they purchased their home in Frontier Pass Village on Linda’s birthday, marking the start of a new chapter in their lives. Returning to California temporarily to sell their property and patiently waiting for their new home to be built, they found themselves back in Mesquite, living in their motorhome for three months during the scorching summer of 2015. Despite the challenges, their love for the community made Mesquite their permanent home.

Fast-forward five years, and the Villanuevas are not just residents; they’ve become integral to Mesquite’s cultural tapestry. In May 2021, the Mesquite Cafe Blues Band was born, a musical venture that quickly gained traction, taking them beyond the borders of Mesquite to perform in Arizona and Utah.

The Mesquite Cafe Blues Band, LLC, is more than just a musical act; it’s a licensed business in Nevada and an active Mesquite Chamber of Commerce member. Recognized for their outstanding contributions, they were nominated for the 2023 Best of Mesquite Chamber Awards.

The band, led by Linda’s sultry vocals and Paul’s energetic guitar riffs, has left an indelible mark on various venues. Since the band’s inception, they have often performed professionally at the Clark County Fair and Rodeo, Utah Peach Days Festival, The Mesquite Fine Arts Center, Mesquite Days Festival, Mesquite Community Theatre, The Worden Restaurant, Conestoga Golf Club, Peggy Sue’s Diner, Mad Mike’s Bar, Rising Star Sports Ranch, Sun City Mesquite Pioneer Center, Envy Night Club, Wolf Creek Golf Club, Eureka Casino, Virgin River Casino, Casa Blanca Casino, Mesquite Elks Lodge, and Cinnamon Café Restaurant.

Additionally, they perform at many private parties and events within the City of Mesquite. Their calendar includes performances at diverse events, showcasing their versatility and dedication to bringing quality entertainment to Mesquite.

What sets the Mesquite Cafe Blues Band apart is not only their musical prowess but also their commitment to community service, as they have actively supported local charities, including The Mesquite Toes Dance Troupe, The Mesquite Showgirls, The Mesquite Women’s History and Cultural Center, The Mesquite Library, The Mesquite Fine Arts Center, The City of Mesquite, The Daughters of the American Revolution, The Mesquite Veteran’s Center, The Senior Festival, Mesa Valley Estates, Yucca Street Holiday Fair, Mesquite Farmer’s Market, Kids for Sports, and Mesquite Chamber of Commerce. The Villanueva duo understands the importance of giving back and using their talents to make a positive impact.  Recently they added two more charities to their performance schedule; The Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue and The Mohave County Search and Rescue.

Despite officially retiring in 2008, Paul and Linda remain incredibly active within the Mesquite community. Linda’s involvement with the Mesquite Toes Dance Troupe and the Mesquite Showgirls showcases her passion for the arts. At the same time, both Villanuevas are proud members of the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, the Mesquite Fine Arts Center, and the Mesquite Elks Lodge.

So, how did a former police lieutenant and administrative professional find themselves rocking the Mesquite music scene? Paul was a professional drummer until joining the Police Force in his mid-twenties, while Linda sang in various choirs. Paul is a retired Lieutenant of Police from the City of Riverside, California, and Linda retired from administrative services from the City of Rialto Police and Engineering Departments. She earned undergraduate degrees in math and science and holds a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Loma Linda University.

Paul earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical Studies and has a Master of Arts Degree in Behavioral Science. Upon moving to Mesquite, Paul played drums professionally with several local bands until the pandemic of 2021, when his other bandmates left for different states. When circumstances led Paul to switch from drums to guitar, and Linda belted out a blues song in the car, the Mesquite Cafe Blues Band was born. People adore Linda for her warmth and genuine ability to care for others. Paul calls her his “Hot Sauce.”

Paul and Linda describe the band’s philosophy as simple but powerful: “We want our audience to have a wonderful time with the music, dancing, and with one another. If we can help people forget their worries for a few hours, we have done our job.”