Born in San Diego, Roberto Tapia was the son of parents who had relocated from Sinaloa, Mexico. At eleven years of age, the future musician entered Difocur, a prestigious music school where he studied clarinet. While mastering the clarinet, Tapia was still reluctant to showcase his talents. But after coaxing from friend and family, Tapia began performing at various dancehalls and receptions. At 17, he made his professional debut in Tijuana, Mexico alongside the Lobito de Sinaloa.