Premios Juventud will pay tribute to the late Queen of Cumbia, Selena, during the 17th edition of the annual awards show on August 13.
Univision announced that a special segment honoring 25 years of the late Latin music icon’s music and legacy will air during the star-studded event.
Selena’s brother and producer of her biggest hits, A.B. Quintanilla, as well as some of the biggest stars in Latin and Pop music, including Karol G, Natti Natasha, Danna Paola, Ally Brooke, and Greeicy will participate in a special tribute performance.
“For me being part of this special was a real honor,” Greeicy said in an interview with Billboard. “She is a woman that after all these years, and everything that has happened, is a legend. I never hard the chance to meet her while she was here but she is an icon, an icon that lasts a lifetime.”
“How amazing is it that she has inspired so many with her music. It was very challenging for me to create the energy and portray her flavors of cumbia. It was a beautifully difficult challenge and it was very special because I learned from her music and I’m going to keep enjoying it with respect and I hope to honor her. To have the privilege to prepare this special with her brother, who knew her, lived with her, and spent her life with her, is very special. It was a hard challenge for me because I felt like I was speaking directly to her. The special is going to be really great, it was beautiful to be able to create it with him, he was wonderful to work with,” she added.
Popstar Ally Brooke, a Texas native, told Build that Selena is her “number one inspiration.” Brooke added, “As of course an entertainer but as just a human being. She had a light within her that was so beautiful and radiant. She had a tremendous spirit and she shined that on everybody she met, everybody she came across, and especially that stage. I grew up with her music all around me.”
Premios Juventud 2020 will take place at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, and will broadcast live via Univision at 6 pm CT. There will be a virtual audience using the latest state-of-art technologies.
Chente Barrera is currently working on new music and the GRAMMY Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician has released a new single titled “Cuando Me Dejes De Amar” from his upcoming new album.
Barrera spoke about his latest release, a cover song from one of his musical influences, Tejano music legend Roberto Pulido, his music career that spans over three decades and much more in an exclusive interview with The Puro Jale Show, afternoons on Tejano Nation radio affiliate KLMO Tejano 98.9 FM in San Antonio, Texas.
The Tejano ROOTS Hall of Famer also shared his plans to add his full catalogue of music to digital platforms soon and how he is doing during this current pandemic that has put live music performances on hold.
Listen to the full interview with Chente Barrera on The Puro Jale Show below:
The upbeat cumbia with Reggaeton flavor was engineered by Phillip Garcia and is set to be part of the group’s upcoming EP. The video was set for release in March but due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the group decided to postpone the release.
The band was able to put together over thirty songs, which will go through a selection process and narrowed down to be part of their next project titled Rebirth, which will be a full-length album or two EPs.
The group’s next single “Rancheras” is set for release within the next couple of months alongside their album/EP.
The high-energy cumbia band from Cuero, Texas, are “A Second Generation” of the original Los Amigos, originally led by Albert Garcia, Sr. Now, his sons Albert Garcia, Jr and Phillip Garcia are leading the next generation of the band
“We would like to thank everyone who supports our music,” said Philip Garcia, musical director and producer for Los Amigos A.S.G. “We will back to doing what we love & look forward to seeing you all dance the night away.”
The current COVID-19 pandemic has kept Tejano stars at home and many are using that time to record new music, including Rick Fuentes, leader of the next generation of The Brown Express.
A duet with his wife Monica Fuentes for a segment of the Tejano America web series has turned into a single receiving airplay for the duo after the video of the in-home performance received many views via social media.
“The video just took off,” Rick Fuentes told Tejano Nation. “A lot of people were liking it and we got a whole ton of views.”
The pair performed “Me Dan Ganas De Ti”, a song originally recorded by late Tejano music legend Laura Canales.
“We did it our way,” Rick said. “We kind of changed the arrangements a little bit.”
Rick Fuentes added he’s producing an album for his wife’s band, Monica Y Grupo Mezcal, as well as the next album for The Brown Express and many other projects.
“Me Dan Ganas De Ti” from Rick and Monica Fuentes is available now at all major digital music platforms.
The romantic cumbia is written by Latin GRAMMY-winning singer and songwriter Juan Treviño and features an instantly catchy chorus with outstanding musicianship provided by a stellar cast of some of the industry’s top studio players including Brando Mireles, Jay Alaniz, Chente Barrera, and Cristina Salinas.
“La Última Vez” is produced by Mireles, Stevie’s longtime collaborator and keyboardist, at the historic Legends Sound Studios in Corpus Christi, Texas.
The song’s universal message of lost love will resound with anyone who has ever experienced a tough breakup.
Stevie D’s highly-anticipated full-length debut album with Freddie Records is slated for release this fall. “La Última Vez” will be released worldwide at all major digital music platforms on September 4, 2020, with an official music video released the same day.
Ray Ray has premiered his latest single and official music video for “Ven Ven Ven” from his forthcoming album Veinte Veinte Es Mi Tiempo, and it is absolutely a breath of fresh air.
The award-winning singer continues to leave his listeners on the edge of their seats never knowing what to expect from him. He is very confident in his sound and his one of a kind style. He also takes great pride in his Latin culture and roots by continuing to drop singles that are fresh and exciting.
“Ven Ven Ven” highlights many fascinating countries with their beautiful cultures by expressing his appreciation through song and calling out each country by name.
Ray Ray welcomes all of his listeners around the world to come together and hit the dance floor with him in hopes that they will invite him to perform in their place next year.
“Ven Ven Ven” is an electrifying tune that kicks off with a very upbeat hype vibe; the instruments such as the guitar and lively beat are what get the listener grooving and their hips moving to the lyrics and rhythm.
The song was written by Ray-Ray and produced by Hugo Guerrero at Nightmare Audio Productions.
“The vibe I was going for is a fun summer song that everyone can dance to at home, in their living room, or anywhere”. Ray Ray tells Tejano Nation.
“The song is inspired by this pandemic to keep people’s spirits up all over the world. It is one of the many songs that are part of my pandemic collection for the new album. Meaning we had a lot of time on our hands and wrote almost half the album during this time,” he added.
The visual was filmed by Lupe Moya at LM Media Solutions and begin with a calming ocean view and waves crashing preparing the viewer for more gorgeous vistas to come. Other scenes such as soothing beach shores, tall skyscrapers, mountains, and well-known statues that are so pleasant to the viewers’ eyes it encourages travel and visits to all of these captivating places.
The singer-songwriter is currently working on his third album to be released later this year. He also plans to bring more of an international feel to his music.
“My fans can expect more international type music on my third album,” he said. “I do plan to keep recording as long as the good Lord gives me life in bringing my fans the best music I can. I want to give them something different and refreshing to the ears. Also, I plan to film a few more music videos.”
Erica Garcia, Ray Ray’s wife, supports in promoting his music and manages his career.
“We are a team and that is what makes us work as husband and wife and as being his promoter,” Garcia tells Tejano Nation. “It is very time consuming and we still haven’t gotten everything right yet. It’s trial and error, but we will keep pushing until the door knocks down. It’s in our hearts and souls. We love writing music together and hearing the final product come to life. I wouldn’t have it any other way!”
More projects are to be expected this coming year and new music. Fans cannot wait to see what else Ray Ray has in store for his upcoming album.
“To all my fans, put your seat belt on because my musical journey is about to skyrocket,” exclaimed Ray Ray, “As always, thank you for your continued support. You all are what keeps me composing original music and moving forward in the music industry and I thank you.”
Yeisi is a newcomer to Tejano music and the singer-songwriter with big dreams has released his debut album Romance Tejano.
The album features eight songs all composed by Yeisi, whose specialty is romantic songs.
“Most of the songs, if not all the songs, are definitely romantic, perfect for that special someone,” Yeisi told the Mas Chingon Radio podcast in a recent interview. “That’s what I like to write. I like to write romantic music. I like to write songs about relationships. That’s my bread and butter.”
Yeisi worked with multiple GRAMMY-winning producer Gilbert Velasquez to create the right sound for his debut Tejano album.
“He asked me, ‘What style of Tejano do you like? What are you looking to get? What kind of sound?’,” Yeisi said about a conversation with Velasquez. “I said, I kind of like the very old school Selena and I like the Bobby Pulido style, so kind of mix in between those two.”
That was enough information for Velasquez to take the songs written by Yeisi and begin to produce a sound that would become Yeisi’s debut Tejano album.
“That’s were we took our inspiration for this sound and this style,” added Yeisi.
The lead single from the album is a romantic cumbia titled “Amor.”
“The melody and the lyrics came to me really fast and I wrote most of the song in an hour and a half,” he says of the song. “It’s a Tejano/Norteño, so it’s very danceable and it’s a nice song.”
Romance Tejano is Yeisi’s debut album into the Tejano industry, but the talented singer and musician previously released Latin Pop albums including an eponymous album in 2014 and Cosmogonia in 2017.
“Honestly, I can tell you that this is my best work,” Yeisi says about his debut Tejano album. “This is the album that I most satisfied with and I think the people have responded very well to the change.”
Romance Tejano from Yeisi is currently available at all major digital music platforms.
Listen to the full interview with Yeisi on the Mas Chingon Radio podcast below:
The band leader, vocalist, and songwriter for the San Antonio, Texas band had been hospitalized over the past couple of months after testing positive for coronavirus, with much of the time in intensive care, according to sources.
Charly Boy was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, and is a self-taught musician with early influence from his father who sang Mariachi and played the guitar. Inspired by the movie “La Bamba,” Charly Boy had the determination to teach himself how to play the bass, keyboard, and percussion.
At the age of 18, Charly Boy formed Super Sueño in 1995. What first started off as a band consisting of his cousin and a few friends that loved music has grown into a band that has recorded nine albums and several music videos, including the most recent album Formula De Amor released in 2019.
Super Sueño released its debut album, Encuentro de Amor, in 1999 with Charly Boy as the lead vocalist and bass player and the band has been a strong influence in the Tejano music culture ever since.
WATCH: Super Sueño — “Porque Te Tengo Que Olvidar”
The tribute to Selena was one of the most anticipated moments at Premios Juventud 2020. The performance honored the late “Queen of Cumbia,” celebrating the 25 year legacy of the Latin music icon since her death in 1995. Natti Natasha, Danna Paola, Ally Brooke, and Greeicy joined forces as the new generation of Latin artists took over the stage to sing Selena’s biggest hits.
The tribute began with a giant screen on the stage featuring a video montage of Selena. And suddenly on the screen, Selena appears singing “Como la Flor”, a song she sang at her last concert at the Astrodome in Houston, Texas, on February 26, 1995. On stage, there is a microphone stained in red lipstick to honor Selena.
Danna Paola appears dressed in white and continues singing the song with a group of dancers dressed in hats and bustiers, just like Selena. Natti Natasha takes the stage, dressed in a white jumpsuit, singing the hit “La Carcacha”.
Popstar Ally Booke, also in white, joined the group performing “Amor Prohibido”. Then came pop star Colombian singer Greeicy with “Baila Esta Cumbia”. To end the great tribute, the four stars joined their voices to end with “Fotos Y Recuerdos”.
Singer Karol G delivered two awards for Selena that was accepted by her brother, A.B. Quintanilla III, who dedicated the trophies to their parents and thanked the world for keeping Selena’s memory alive.
“These awards I want to dedicate to two people,” he said on stage. “One to my mother Marcela Quintanilla, who gave us life and the other to my father, Abraham Quintanilla, because he taught Selena to sing and dance.”
“For me being part of this special was a real honor. She is a woman who after all these years, and everything that has happened, is a legend. I never had a chance to meet her while she was here, but she is an icon, an icon that lasts a lifetime,” Greeicy told Billboard.
“I fell in love with Selena when I was 11 after seeing her movie,” Karol G said in an interview with ET in 2018. “[I loved that] she was always working with her father because the same thing happened to me. My father was always with me, all the time. I started researching her history, and all the things she did.”
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Selena’s death. The “Dreaming of You” singer was murdered by her fan club president in March 1995, when she was only 23 years old. Her impact on music, fashion, and culture continues to impact the next generation.
Little Joe, who is slowly recovering from COVID-19 at home, received great news about the book on his life story released in May. ¡No Llore, Chingon! An American Story: The Life of Little Joe is a finalist in two categories for the 2020 International Latino Book Awards for Most Inspirational Nonfiction Book – English and Best Cover Photo.
The 79-year-old music legend says many authors have wanted to tell his story and found the right one when award-winning South Texas author Emma González contacted him.
“Her life story is so similar to mine,” Little Joe said in an interview with Tejano Nation radio affiliate La Voz 93.3. FM in Abilene, Texas. “Grew up as a migrant kid pickin’ and workin’ in the fields – my same story. I figured she would be able to really deliver my message.”
The first book written by González, Field Mice: Memoirs of a Migrant Child, won in the category of the Most Inspirational Novel, and Field Mice: Memoirs of a Migrant Child (Children’s Edition) won the category for Most Inspirational Book for Young Adults at the 2017 International Latino Book Awards.
Sponsored by the Empowering Latino Futures, a non-profit organization, the International Latino Book Awards is the highest recognization of Latino literature and the authors who create it. Latino authors from the U.S. and 20 Latin countries participate with their submissions.
The 2020 International Latino Book Awards will take place in a virtual setting this year and will be streamed live on Saturday, September 12, 2020, at latinobookawards.org and YouTube, hosted by award-winning actor Edward James Olmos.
Little Joe, known as the “King of The Brown Sound,” released his eighth live concert albumBetter Than Ever on May 29 and the book about his life and over 50-year legendary music career on May 13.
Silky-voiced front man Raul Malo and The Mavericks, known by fans worldwide for their genre-shattering country/rock/Tex-Mex-and-more fusion, perform their trademark musical feats on the band’s first all-Spanish album, out Aug. 21, and simply titled, En Español.
The album features five original and impressive, even intoxicating, tracks, penned all or in part by Malo, and seven timeless Latino standards, including “Sabor a Mi,” “No Vale La Pena,” and “Sombras Nada Mas.” The album takes listeners on a musical journey of wide-ranging styles and sounds, with the originals sometimes even eclipsing the classic covers, such as with “Poder Vivir,” an upbeat polka with deep lyrical content, and the sultry “Mujer,” where Malo’s vocal instrument seduces with skill.
Malo, who reunited with his band in 2012 after almost a decade apart, spoke with Tejano Nation about the new album, and said he knew he wanted to create this Spanish album with the Mavericks and not as a solo artist.
“With the Mavericks, I knew that it would be sort of this hybrid,” Malo said during a phone conversation. “It wouldn’t be a traditional record, by any means, you know? It wouldn’t be a traditional Mexican or Cuban or Puerto Rican record… And having the Mavericks make this record, it’s a band coming from a different world into this world and I wanted that feeling, that sort of feeling of the unknown, the new, the exciting.”
On En Español, the Mavericks do indeed traverse new, exciting territory with the mix of originals and covers of established Latino songs. Standouts include the haunting, brass-driven original offering, “Recuerdos,” and the cover of a folksy ballad made famous by Julio Iglesias, “Me Olvidé de Vivir,” where Malo bares his soul.
“The (songs) were carefully selected and for different reasons,” Malo said of the seven classics on En Español.
Of the Iglesias track, Malo said he loved the song and always thought it could offer “more of a folksy, country kind of vibe.”
“It’s a beautiful story and it’s the story of, gosh, I think of just about every musician that’s ever put on a guitar and stepped on a stage,” Malo said of “Me Olvidé de Vivir.”
Malo, a first-generation Cuban American, said he had long wanted to explore his Latin roots with an album of Spanish music, but by no means does he see himself as the next Iglesias, Juan Gabriel or Luis Miguel. The album is more of an homage to the music of his youth and culture.
“I don’t have any delusions of all of a sudden being a Latin music artist,” Malo said. “We’re still the Mavericks, you know. We just wanted to make this record because the music means so much. It’s my mother tongue. These are songs that I grew up listening to as a kid. And it’s really kind of a tribute to my parents and to the whole immigrant community.”
En Español purposely offers sounds from around the Latin American region, including songs from Mexico, Cuba, and Argentina, as Malo wanted to honor all types of Latino music and forget about borders of any kind.
“I wanted this record to be inclusive,” Malo said. “There’s so much anti-immigration stuff and there’s so many sentiments now even Latinos amongst ourselves. We always, you know, say, ‘If you do Cuban music, you can’t do Mexican music. If you do Mexican music, you can’t do Cuban music.’ And I’m not saying that anybody (actually) says that, but it’s almost like a perceived barrier anyway.”
The album’s genres, like its cultures, span a wide spectrum from ballads to boleros yet the album’s first single, “Poder Vivir,” with its strong Tejano/Mexican influences, has already affected airplay on Tejano stations around South Texas, with the song reaching the No. 1 spot on the highly-regarded Tejano Gold Countdown by Rudy Treviño.
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Malo addresses the role that the Tejano/Tex-Mex sound has always played in the Mavericks music, citing the participation of world famous San Antonio accordionist Flaco Jimenez early in the band’s career, as a major turning point for the group.
“When Flaco recorded ‘All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down’ with The Mavericks in 1995…that started us on the path that we’re on now, that we have been on for the last 20-some odd years,” Malo said.
“Because of that song, because of that collaboration, because of that sound, it was a meshing of both worlds and I wanted that. I was seeking that early on and it happened. And when it happened, it set us on this path of searching for this blend where all these worlds come together. And it’s such a beautiful place.”
The Mavericks reach this beautiful place musically with En Español and while the album isn’t a traditional Tejano album the Mavericks’ Tex-Mex leanings, including playing songs like the mariachi classic “Volver, Volver” as part of their raucous live shows, have long been leading them to this point.
“We’ve never done a whole Spanish album,” Malo said. “I mean we’ve played Spanish music throughout the years… That’s always really fun. So we’ve been hinting at this for a long time.”
In a fitting reunion, Jimenez and his accordion make a return appearance on this new album on the cover of “No Vale La Pena.”
“I think it brings it full circle to have Flaco on this record at this point in his life and in our lives,” Malo said.
En Español marks yet another cross-cultural musical milestone for the Mavericks and Malo said he hopes new listeners will give the album a chance. Already, current Mavericks’ fans, who Malo said enjoy all kinds of music, have shown love to the new album despite not understanding the Spanish language, as evident in comments on social media from Facebook to YouTube.
“This is a band of real musicians that have put a lot of effort into this record,” Malo said.
While the Mavericks are an American band, Malo said their musicians comprise various cultural backgrounds and this is reflected in the music they produce, especially on En Español.
“I want people to listen with open minds and open hearts and like, ‘Hey, yeah, this is an American band but …We’re paying tribute to some of our favorite music you know because we have Mexicans in the band, we have Cubans in the band, we’ve got everything in the band,” Malo said. “The Mavericks represent a big piece of what Americana is, of what America is. We’re this hybrid band anyway. This is our tribute to some of our favorite music and we just hope people dig it.”
Join the musical journey on En Español and discover the magic and magnetism of Malo and The Mavericks. The album is available for pre-order and each album will come with a translation of the lyrics.
The Mavericks En Español Track Listing:
1. La Sitiera / The Sitiera – Writer: Rafael López González
The official video for “¿Por Que No Me Dijiste?” from Siggno begins and ends with a ring that was never given.
In between, viewers see – through effective editing techniques – how love and the one we love can be there one minute and gone the next. Slow motion shots enhance the drama of loving moments shared together and the speeding up of the video shows how quickly time can change circumstances in life and love.
Siggno frontman Jesse Turner sings with his trademark passionate sorrow that is fitting for the song about the loss of a once-beautiful relationship. His voice is complemented by his impressive accordion skills and the band produces the rock-tinged Norteño lite sound for which they have become known.
The video pairs perfectly with the song’s theme of lost love and the lyrics that ask why the object of the singer’s affection did not warn him about how hard life would be without her love.
Another successful song for Siggno and a video that feels more like a mini-movie playing out the heartache right before our eyes.
U.S. congressman Filemon Vela, (D-Brownsville), introduced a resolution to honor and celebrate the achievements of Tejano music artists. The resolution specifically congratulates the musical contributions of Freddy Fender, Roberto Pulido, Flaco Jiménez and Selena Quintanilla.
Tejano, which translates to Texan in Spanish, is a popular music genre originating from the meshing of Czech, German and other Eastern European settlers’ polka music with traditional Mexican music. Tejano music has been the musical backbone of Texas and its culture since the early 20th century.
“Through their timeless music, Freddy Fender, Roberto Pulido, Flaco Jiménez, and Selena Quintanilla paved the way for Tejano and Latino stars throughout the United States. Their legacy continues to share with the world the richness and strength of South Texas culture and heritage, spanning borders and language barriers,” said Vela. “I am proud to introduce this resolution, which honors their contributions to the cultural heritage and diversity of this great country and its people.”
Vocalist Magali Delarosa‘s new video for her latest single, “Como Quieres Que Te Olvide,” starts with an adorable cameo from her seven-year-old daughter, Delilah Rose Bergman, then whisks viewers off into an exciting, eye-pleasing whirlwind of dance, romance, fashion, scenic locales, and even fireworks.
De La Rosa said director Baldemar Garcia of 1st Class Cinema did so well with the video that she’s already booked him for her next video for the mariachi-style ballad, “Llorare Por Ti.” She also praised her entire team including dancers, the crew on location and her band.
“I was so excited to do this,” Delarosa said. “This was one of the biggest productions in a video I’ve ever done. It was a great experience.”
She continues: “(My director) did so fabulous. He took my ideas and brought them to life.”
The song, which Delarosa describes as a “cumbia-fusion,” incorporates dance beats, brass sound, and a catchy chorus that makes you want to sing and move along with the music. The song was written by Magali’s father, Carlos Delarosa.
While the lyrics center around heartache, Magali’s sweet, soaring vocals, the upbeat rhythm and powerful brass will likely leave listeners feeling triumphant over getting past the loss of a love rather than feeling sad or somber.
“If you listen to the lyrics, they’re pretty heartbreaking, but you have these different tones in there, a lot of trumpet, a lot of live music going on so it’s kind of a sad song that you can dance to and also have fun with,” she said.
The video was shot in Pharr, McAllen and South Padre Island and Magali appears with her band on the beach, dressed in a black, sequined two-piece outfit, with her dancers in front of a brightly painted mural wearing a royal blue jacket with sheer sleeves, and then, with her love interest, played by Antonio Villarreal. Magali and Villarreal engage in a romantic embrace, backed by a breathtaking fireworks display that caps off the video, thanks to Cross Fishing Charters.
Magali announced that in addition to the new single and video, she is keeping busy with her other passion, her fashion line, under her name, which is currently underway. Villarreal from the video is actually the face of the men’s wear line while one of the dancers, also from the “Como Quieres Que Te Olvides” video, Lili Briales, will model the ladies’ fashions. (Visit De her Instagram and Facebook for more on her fashion offerings.)
Magali, who is now releasing her music independently, said fans can expect a new album in 2021 but more new music before then.
“We’re going to drop some singles leading up to an album that I want to release in the new year,” she said. “I haven’t decided what month, but it’s pretty much already done. We have a couple of songs we still need to get back in the studio and rework a little bit. But essentially, it’s all going to lead up to an album release, which would be my fourth studio album.”
Magali thanked her current and new fans for their support and feedback.
“I would just like to say to my fans who have really reached out to me after dropping this video, I just want to say thank you so much for all your kind words, for your positivity,” Magali said. “I’ve just gotten the sweetest messages from everybody so I want to thank you guys. You’re always in my heart. You’re always in my prayers.”
Visit Magali Delarosa on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
Multiple award winning Tejano group Mariano Y La Preferencia recently released the single “Corazón Herido” from their forthcoming album. It features an easy melody to sing along with and relate to.
“Corazón Herido” is an original song written and recorded by Mariano Bocanegra, founder of the group from McAllen, Texas, back in 1992 but was never released.
It tells the story of a one sided love, the man has so much devotion and pours his heart out to the woman he adores and admires but the woman never reciprocates those emotions therefore leaving the man with a “wounded heart.”
“Since I can remember, I first started writing in 4th grade. I would write poems to many girls I liked. It was always about love and heartbreak,” Bocanegra tells Tejano Nation. “In 1987, I began writing in Spanish due to my interest in Tejano music at the time. I would listen to the bands and artists of that era and most songs were about love and heartbreak.“
“Corazón Herido” was recorded as part of a demo the band wanted to present to some record labels. I remember performing most of the cover songs by many different bands of the time and always enjoyed the danceable sound of the “Tejana Ranchera Orchestral.”
“Of course, due to the popularity of this style in the early 90s many of my songs are in this style,” Bocanegra added.
The single was produced by Roger Pena with BocaMar Records, where he was able to give it a softer spin with some classical ideas. Joe Joe Leal, Jr. also played a huge role in bringing this masterpiece together. He was able to put the drum arrangements evolving the song to a smooth Ranchera Tejana. He also provided the editing, mixing and mastering of the song.
Mariano partners up with none other than the current lead vocalist of La Preferencia, Andrea (Andie) Bustamante, who brings such heartwarming and touching vocals that instantly anyone who listens can relate to the deep heartbreak this song expresses.
“When I contacted her and I asked her if she would be willing to offer her vocals on the song she immediately agreed,” said Bocanegra. “Andie added her beautiful harmonies in the song which gave it the brilliance that I was earning for. She knew it was a love song where both genders had to feel the pain.”
This coming year, fans can expect many different styles of music on La Preferencia’s upcoming album, such as cumbias, rancheras, mariachi and boleros. This is expected to be an exciting 2020 and we cannot wait to look forward to what is next!
Jay Perez | Photo by Lorena Rodriguez / LCR Photography
Cano Health selected multiple Grammy nominated singer Jay Perez as brand ambassador for its South Texas medical centers. The leading population health management company with primary care medical centers in Florida and San Antonio made the announcement of Aug. 28.
In this capacity he will serve as community advisor, advertising talent, and creative consultant for Cano Health, helping the company build brand awareness and championing programs that resonate with the local community.
Known by his fans as “The Voice”, Perez is an award-winning Tejano singer-songwriter and native San Antonian with a deep understanding of the community. “Knowing that San Antonio is a City rich in culture and coming from a family that has its own health issues, I have seen up close what a lack of health care can do to a family and a community,” said Perez. “I feel it is extremely important for me to use my platform to raise awareness and promote quality health care.”
Edward Vargas, Texas Vice President for Cano Health, says the company is dedicated to transforming healthcare for San Antonians and its seniors by activating excellence in primary care, in-home visits, pharmacy delivery services, and expanded telemedicine for patient safety and convenience.
“Jay is an important local influencer in the San Antonio community. His dedication to our community and his character reflect our core values,” said Vargas. “We want San Antonio to know that Cano Health is committed to improving patient and community health by delivering superior primary care medical services, while forging a life-long bond with our patients.”
San Antonio is Cano Health’s first stop as part of its national expansion. The company will soon be opening a retail location and full-service medical center at 7031 Marbach; and three other medical centers at 100 S. Zarzamora, 2925 West Ave, and 6623 Zarzamora by the end of the year.
Sad news as we learn of the passing of another Tejano music legend in 2020. Ricky Smith, known as the “King of Tejano Guitar,” passed away on Sept. 3. He was 64.
Details of the Tejano ROOTS Hall of Famer’s passing were not immediately known.
Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1955, Smith formed his first band, Ricky and The Dreamers, while in the seventh grade. He was a part of few Tejano bands during the 1970s, including one of the hottest bands in the Tejano music scene, El Grupo Mayo, recording five albums.
Ricky Smith eventually formed La Movida in 1979, recording 13 albums, establishing himself as one of the greatest guitarists and performers in one of the most popular bands in Tejano music.
He later formed his owned record label, Valencia Records, while living in Detroit, Michigan, producing many projects. Smith also worked as a radio station program director at WNZA and music journalist for publications in the Midwest and Texas.
From 2007 to 2009, Smith completed the albums Rey de la Guitarra Tejano and God Me Guitar del Corazon.
Tejano Nation remembers Ricky Smith, the “King of Tejano Guitar.”
LOS ANGELES, CA – September 4, 2020 – (LATINX NEWSWIRE) – Classic horror fans, rejoice, because this October 17 you’re in for a virtual trick or treat like no other!
Today, RetroPop Media announced that it is kicking off the Halloween season with an epic free virtual festival “RetroPop Live! Halloween.” Featuring cast reunions from everyone’s favorite classic horror films, autograph signings, meet and greet opportunities as well as spotlights on horror collectors and leading collectible companies, the event marks the first time RetroPop Live! has taken its classic festival to the virtual stage. Local Southern Californians will also have a chance to purchase tickets for a special Drive-In Horror Movie Experience Double Feature with the 80’s Cult Classic films “Chopping Mall” and “Puppet Master” presented with Santa Ana-based art house theater The Frida Cinema.
The virtual fest features a very special “Friday the 13th 40th Anniversary Celebration” reunion panel with the first actor to portray Jason Voorhees, Ari Lehman, along with Adrienne King plus a special musical performance by Ari Lehman’s band FIRST JASON.
“I’m excited to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Friday the 13th with everyone around the globe and rock the virtual world with a very special performance with my band First Jason,” said Lehman.
The ’80s cult classic “Killer Klowns From Outer Space” will also share the spotlight with a Q&A session that includes the writers/directors/producers of the film, The Chiodo Brothers.
Everyone’s favorite killer doll Chucky, will be the topic of conversation with the “Child’s Play” cast reunion Q&A featuring Alex Vincent and Edan Gross.
In addition to cast reunions, musical performances, autograph signings, and virtual meet & greet opportunities, “RetroPop Live! Halloween” will also highlight both avid collectors of horror-related collectibles as well as the companies that provide them including the leading manufacturer of masks and props from the worlds of Sci-Fi and Horror, “Trick or Treat Studios.”
The FREE virtual festival is being produced and curated in partnership with Fearsome Figures, The Frida Cinema, Sports Authentics USA as well as the creators of DARKSIDE in RIVERSIDE, NostalgiaCon, and Altísimo Live events. Registration for the three-hour live stream festival opens today at RetroPopLive.com.
SPECIAL DRIVE-IN EXPERIENCE FOR FANS BASED IN S. CALIFORNIA
Even though the virtual event takes place on the 17th, live in-person festivities actually kick off on Friday, October 16th for those fans lucky enough to live in Southern California with a special Drive-In Horror Movie Experience Double Feature with the 80’s Cult Classic films “Chopping Mall” and “Puppet Master” presented with Santa Ana-based art house theater The Frida Cinema. To purchase tickets to the drive-in experience (costumes are recommended!), go to https://thefridacinema.org/chopping-mall-puppet-master/
When/How to View RetroPop Live! Halloween
RetroPop Live: Halloween can be seen online on October 17 at 1 p.m. PST by registering at www.RetroPopLive.com and will also be available nationally and internationally free through various broadcast and live stream media partners, including LiveXLive. Pop culture media companies and organizations such as The Frida Cinema will also broadcast the show through their Facebook and YouTube channels, giving RetroPop Live: Halloween! a broad national and international viewership.
Audiences at home will also have several options to get involved live on the show throughout the day with opportunities to not only win prizes, but also be featured on the show in a variety of engaging ways.
Frank “Panchito” Hernandez | Photo: Mariaelena Arocha
After what seems like a lifetime of music from this artist, Frank “Panchito” Hernandez has entertained us all with his original songs, smooth singing, and bajo chords for the past 30 years. Having completed recording with Ruben De La Cruz Y Su Conjunto on their latest album Me Enamore Otra Vez, released in February 2020 by record label Hacienda International LLC, I had the chance to finally talk to him about his life and music career.
Born in 1973 in Dale City, Florida, Frank Hernandez began playing at the age of 17 years old, inspired by his father, Cruz Hernandez Sr., and taught by Ramon Delgado (accordionist SB).
Currently residing in San Benito, Texas, Frank works full-time for the San Benito Independent School District. He has played alongside the likes of the great Ruben Vela, Enrique “Flaco” Naranjo, Los Estrellas De Oro, Frutty Villarreal, and many more.
In 1999, Frank joined Ruben De La Cruz and has since been Ruben’s right hand man, playing the bajo sexto, composing and recording original songs, and also singing. He has amassed a strong fan base of loyal followers, undoubtedly highly respected by other musicians in the industry, and a compilation of many original songs written by him and appearing on many different albums.
The title track from the group’s latest album, Me Enamore Otra Vez, is an original song composed by Frank along with two other songs on the album, “Asi Es” and “Vuelve Mi Vida,” a catchy upbeat cumbia.
Frank names Conjunto Bernal, Tony De La Rosa, and Ruben Vela as some of his favorite artists, all three different in style. On most weekends in the Valley or other parts of surrounding Texas cities, you can more than likely catch a live show from Ruben De La Cruz Y Su Conjunto, and watch Frank play many familiar tunes on his Macias bajo sexto, which Frank says is his preferred bajo to play because of its cool sound.
I asked Frank if no one knew who he was and they had never met him how would he describe himself to people. “Humble, family oriented, and outgoing,” he said. “I can play bass, accordion, and bajo and I have been playing for over 30 years. A musician that dares to take it to another level and thinks outside of the box and uses life itself, reality and other people as an inspiration for all my original songs. I am more than just Conjunto music, I want more than just Conjunto music”.
Over 50 self composed original songs, many of them appearing on different albums, Frank Hernandez continues to prove that after 30 years in the music industry you can still be relevant and fresh.
Ruben De La Cruz and Frank “Panchito” Hernandez | Photo: Mariaelena Arocha
A 2012 South Texas Conjunto Association winner of Bajo player of the year, as well as 2018 Composer of the year, Frank says he does not consider his music as a career. Covid-19 has prevented him from playing as usual because of safety concerns and he continues to work his regular fulltime job in San Benito.
Over three decades of memories, music and life, Frank Hernandez gives thanks to the Lord that he is blessed with everything he needs. He is grateful for every opportunity that has came and continues to come his way. “Your grace is amazing as I grow stronger, my faith grows deeper, He has brought me peace with my past, purpose to my present and hope to my future,” he said. “To the whole world in everything, I give thanks, for it is the will of God to all circumstances with no expectations.”
With no plans of making his own band, what does the future hold for this talented musician and what is the most memorable part of his long career? “I will play again eventually,” he said. “Most memorable part of my long career of playing with Ruben De La Cruz and Ruben Vela is and was the beginning, moving forward and not knowing where you end”.
I have attended many events where RDLCYSC have performed and just like any other fan you can’t help but dance, sing along and anticipate the new releases they continue to churn out. I wanted to write this article on Frank because I thought it very unbelievable that a man can spend three decades in the Conjunto music industry and never have one single article written about him. Your dedication and talent does not go unnoticed. Thank you “Panchito” and family for your time and participation with myself and Tejano Nation.
The current coronavirus pandemic has cancelled or postponed many live music events, but a new Q-Streaming platform will give live music fans a place to view online concerts from the comfort of their own home via many devices.
Q-Streaming.com is a project created by Abraham Quintanilla, the father of late Latin music icon Selena, and the online platform will feature exclusive performances from top artists.
“It’s a streaming platform where you can view concerts at home, on your computer, tablet, or cellphone,” Quintanilla announced via social media. “Since March of this year, we have been confined to our house because COVID-19 is all around us.”
The first concert to premiere via Q-Streaming.com on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2020, at 7:00 pm CT, will feature Los Tres Reyes, a music group known for the trío romántico style. The iconic and internationally renowned trio will make a special performance singing their hits.
Gilberto and Raúl Puente, twins, were founders of the group in 1957 and remain a part of it. Gilberto is considered one of the best requinto players of Mexico, according to Wikipedia. The group continued into the 1970s, but took a fifteen-year hiatus before re-forming in 1991. Although originally based in Mexico Los Tres Reyes are largely linked to San Antonio today and is noted for a duet version of “No Me Queda Más” with Selena.
@nattinatasha @dannapaola @greeicy1 
& an emotional, gorgeous intro from the stunning @karolg 
Thank you @Abquintanilla3 for the wonderful honor of working with you and your immeasurable talent! And the gift of honoring your beautiful sister. 
Thank you @jessbenitez7 for your incredible, special friendship & belief, and thank you my dear @anibalmarrero for the amazing blessing of your vision, love and talent! SIEMPRE SELENA
