Los Panchos were first formed in 1944 at New York City by two Mexicans, Alfredo Gil and Chucho Navarro, and one Puerto Rican, Hernando Aviles. Each member of Los Panchos played a guitar and sang. Los Panchos reached fame internationally with their romantic songs, especially in Latin America, where they are still regarded as one of the top trios of all time. They sold millions of album copies within a few years of being founded. Julito Rodriguez joined the group in 1952; he was replaced by Johnny Albino in 1958.