🎬 Danny Trejo: Tacos, Metal and Chicano Soul 🌮

A lot of people think he's just the tough-guy actor with a mean mug, but real talk: Danny Trejo is a man of many talents. The guy has his own record label, loves starring in heavy metal music videos, and, of course, there's his legendary Trejo's Tacos.

He's a whole icon!

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The Trejo's Tacos Empire

What started as an on-set joke turned into a legit, highly successful business.

• The Origin: While filming Bad Ass, producer Ash Shah noticed Trejo ate super healthy. Shah suggested opening a restaurant, and Danny jokingly fired back, "Trejo's Tacos!" Shortly after, the producer brought him a real-deal business plan.
• Family Roots: A lot of the recipes are inspired by his mom. In fact, Trejo mentions that opening a restaurant was her dream back in the '50s, but family circumstances didn't allow it at the time.
• Something for Everyone: His taco spots in Los Angeles (and now London) are famous for catering to all diets—from carnitas and fried chicken tacos to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options (like his famous cauliflower or tofu tacos).
• More Than Just Tacos: The brand has expanded to Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts (serving up wild donut flavors like nacho or margarita) and his own craft beer line, Trejo's Cerveza.

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His Own Record Label: "Trejo's Music"

In 2019, Trejo launched his own label, Trejo's Music. The label focuses mainly on Chicano Soul, Oldies, and R&B—genres Danny has loved his whole life.

• Roster: He's pushed the careers of talented artists like Amoraa J, Tarah New, and Baby Bash.
• Compilations: He has put out albums like Trejo's Soul Collection and Chicano Soul Shop, bringing back the classic sound of L.A. neighborhoods.
• His Own Vocals: Although he mostly acts as a promoter, he lent his voice to tracks like "Outlaw," a cover of the classic War song.

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The King of Music Videos

Trejo is one of the most sought-after actors for music video cameos thanks to his iconic look. He has shown up in completely different genres:

• Slayer: He's practically a visual honorary member of the thrash metal band, starring in gory videos like "Repentless" and "Pride in Prejudice."
• Train: He played his famous "Machete" character in the "Angel in Blue Jeans" video.
• Jonas Brothers: He showed off his comedic side in the "Burnin' Up" video.
• Other Artists: He's also popped up in videos for Enrique Iglesias ("Loco"), Travis Barker, Yelawolf, and Plastilina Mosh (who even have a track named "Danny Trejo").

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Wrap-Up

• Plastilina Mosh: The Mexican band dedicated an entire track to him on their album All U Need Is Mosh, celebrating his cult legend status.
• SNL Tribute: In 2020, Pete Davidson and Chris Redd dropped a tribute song on Saturday Night Live, looking back at his long and improbable career.
• Family Influence: His son, Gilbert Trejo, is also in the music scene and fronted a punk band called The Dead Reagan Tour.