By Phil Lacombe

Not every musician is chasing fame, some are busy building something more lasting. In the Coachella Valley, few represent that grind and consistency better than Paul Villalobos of The Myx.

For decades, Villalobos has been a staple of the local music scene, bringing live music to dance floors, restaurants, casinos, and community spaces across the desert. While trends come and go, he’s stayed locked into what matters most: connecting with people through music they know, love, and can move to.

With a setlist that can jump from classic rock to oldies to Latin favorites without missing a beat, The Myx has built a reputation as one of the Valley’s most reliable live acts, proof that being a “working musician” isn’t just a title, it’s a lifestyle.

We caught up with Villalobos to talk about longevity, the local scene, and what it really takes to keep crowds coming back year after year.

CVW: You’ve been performing in the Valley for decades, what’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the local music scene?

Villalobos: The biggest change is the number of opportunities and venues we have now. The Valley has really opened up for entertainment. With all the casinos, plus major events like Coachella and Stagecoach, there’s so much happening here now. There are amazing musicians in the Valley, and it’s great seeing more places for people to go out, hear live music, dance, and have fun.

CVW: A lot of artists chase originals, but you’ve built a strong career as a live cover act, what’s the key to doing that successfully?

Villalobos: There’s so many great songs that have been written, and people love hearing songs they’re familiar with — songs they can sing along to, dance to, and have fun with. That’s why I focus on playing music that gets people moving and enjoying themselves. I think that’s the key… giving people what they want to hear and creating a great time for them.

CVW: How do you read a crowd and decide what song to hit them with next?

Villalobos: That part has become pretty natural for me over the years. I look out at the audience and get a feel for who’s there — whether they’re older, younger, or a mix of everybody. Then I’ll pick a song that I think will get them going. Once I see what they respond to, I start mixing it up with different styles — maybe some rockabilly, country, oldies, dance music, whatever feels right in the moment. The crowd usually tells you what to do next.

CVW: The Myx covers a huge range of genres, how do you balance keeping it diverse without losing your identity as a band?

Villalobos: No matter what style of music we play, I think what keeps our identity is the connection and energy we bring to people. I love playing music, and I always want to make sure people are having fun and feel connected. No matter what style of music we’re playing, I try to connect with everyone who comes out. I’m usually smiling because I’m genuinely happy to see people enjoying themselves and having a good time together. Over the years I’ve made so many friends from all over the world through music, and we’re always happy to see each other again. That’s the magic of music — the connection, the energy, and the goodwill that comes through when people come together to have fun. I think that feeling carries through in everything we play.

CVW: What separates a good live band from one that keeps getting booked year after year?

Villalobos: I think what keeps a band working year after year is remembering that you’re there for the people who come out to hear you play. I always want people to know how happy I am to see them and that it’s going to be a great time because they’re here. That’s why I do music — I love the connection, the happiness, and the friendships that come through it. I also understand that when someone hires you, you work for them, so whatever they ask for or need, I always try to make it happen. It’s kind of like “happy wife, happy life” — keep your employer happy. I think being professional is very important, but just as important is having a great attitude. I realize how lucky I am to do this, and I think that happiness comes through in the music and the way you treat people. Bottom line — don’t come in with an attitude. Come in grateful, professional, and ready to make people happy.

CVW: You’ve played everything from casinos to restaurants, what kind of crowd is the toughest to win over?

Villalobos: Honestly, I’ve been very lucky because I’ve never really had a problem with crowds. Whether it’s casinos, restaurants, or parties, people usually end up having a great time. I think a lot of that comes from the energy and personality you bring and letting people know you’re really there to help them have fun.

CVW: After all these years, what still gives you that same rush when you step on stage?

Villalobos: What still gives me that rush is seeing people smiling, dancing, singing along, and just forgetting about everything for a little while. I truly love performing, and there’s nothing like that feeling when the music starts flowing and the whole room connects together. Even after all these years, that energy still hits me every time I walk on stage. Music is powerful — it can move people emotionally, bring people together, and create happiness — and being part of that never gets old to me.

CVW: You’ve worked with the community beyond just performing, how important is it for musicians to give back locally?

Villalobos: I’m really glad you asked this question. Whether you’re a musician or just someone with any kind of skill or talent, it’s always a great thing to share it with others and help people when you can. I use music to help in the special needs community here in the desert. I formed DJ Paul’s Kids Club for my special needs friends so they could have a place for socializing, making friends, and creating happy memories together. This is something very close to my heart, so I always like to talk about it when I can. But honestly, there are so many great causes and ways people can help others here in the desert. Once you start helping people and seeing those happy smiles, you’re not going to want to stop. It’s amazing how a little bit of kindness can change someone’s life, and every smile fills up the heart very quickly.

CVW: For younger artists coming up in the Valley, what’s one thing they need to understand about making music a long-term career?

Villalobos: I think musicians already know why they play, because music is powerful and it can bring so much happiness into your life. I don’t think the love for performing music ever really goes away. My advice for younger artists would be to always do your best, be professional, courteous to others, and be responsible when you’re performing. Use your music to connect with people and use that power for good. Most importantly, have fun doing it. You’ll meet so many great people, create amazing memories, and music can truly enrich your life. Music is a gift, and it’s something very precious.

CVW: Where can fans find you?

Villalobos: You can catch me regularly at Spotlight 29 Casino and with The Myx at venues around the desert including Casuelas Cafe, Sullivan’s Steakhouse, and Augustine Casino. I’m also involved with DJ Paul’s Kids Club through Altura Care, where we work with the special needs community and create fun events and activities for our friends here in the desert.

You can also follow me on social media for upcoming performances, videos, and events:

In a scene that’s constantly evolving, Paul Villalobos has remained a constant—keeping live music alive one show at a time. With The Myx, it’s never been about hype—it’s about consistency, connection, and giving people a reason to stay on the dance floor.

Because at the end of the day, long after the trends fade, it’s musicians like Villalobos who keep the heartbeat of the Coachella Valley going.

That’s a wrap on this week’s Local Music Spotlight, but the party doesn’t stop here. Hit the shows, feel the beats, and keep the valley’s music scene thriving. Because around here, the next song that changes your life might be playing tonight.