Steve Salas, Co-founder of the popular Los Angeles R&B band, Tierra, is dead.

He died on Thursday morning at age 69, his family confirmed.

Salas, who was also an activist in Chicano politics, had been battling myeloma for two years and recently contracted COVID-19.

Born January 5, 1949, in Lincoln Heights to Mexican American parents. Together with his brother, Rudy, they began performing at local parties.

“Steve and Rudy created the soundtrack for many people’s lives, and we are so grateful to everyone who loved their music,” band and family members said in a statement on Facebook.

“The Salas Brothers left an indelible mark on the history of Chicano music with Tierra.”