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Abraham Quintanilla praises Isabel Marie as the ‘whole package’

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Isabel Marie Sanchez

No argument that Abraham Quintanilla knows that it takes to be successful in the music industry, specifically the Tejano market, with the many stars he’s produced over the years. Quintanilla gave high praise to one of Tejano music’s hottest stars today, Isabel Marie Sanchez.

Mr. Q said the 15-year-old singer is the “whole package” in a Facebook post on Thursday, along with a video of Isabel Marie performing “Take Me Back.”

“Isabel Marie has been with my company since she was 12 years old,” Quintanilla said. “She has recently turned 15 years old. Isabel is an artist that Record Companies consider as having the Whole Package: Talent, Youth, Personality, Stage Presence, and Image.”

RELATED: Isabel Marie talks sophomore album ‘Sígueme’ on Tejano Nation Radio [PODCAST]

Quintanilla has had much success over his many years in the Tejano music industry, specifically Selena Y Los Dinos in the 1990s. The Grammy winning group that featured his children, including Selena Quintanilla, who was murdered in 1995 by her fan club president.

“For 23 Years I have been looking and listening for a female vocalist in our Tejano Market that I felt had the vocal qualities comparable to my daughter Selena,” Quintanilla said. “Not to replace Selena, for she will never be replaced.”

Mr. Q has been in the music industry since he was 15 years old and has a love of music. Throughout the years he has produced music for many female artists such as Jennifer Peña, Odalys, Mireya, Sesi, Maya and others.

“I think that Isabel Marie is an extraordinarily talented young woman,” Quintanilla added. “We are excited and pleased as we prepare to release her third album.”

Isabel Marie won Best New Female Artist at the Tejano Music Awards in 2017 after the success of her debut album, New Girl In Town, released in March 2016. She released her already successful sophomore album, Sígueme, in June 2017.

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Report: Legal team for Joe Lopez plans retesting of DNA evidence for exoneration

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The legal team for Joe Lopez plans to retest DNA evidence that helped convict the singer and sent him to prison in 2006 for sex crimes against his niece.

Lopez was released on parole in March, but he is not a free man. After more than a decade in prison, the co-founder of Grammy winning group Mazz, has to wear an ankle monitor and spend most of his time inside, KVEO reports.

RELATED: Joe Lopez freed from prison after 11 years

His legal team is fighting to clear his name and received a big break from Cameron County District Attorney Luis Saenz.  KVEO reports that Saenz will not interfere with DNA evidence being retested in a chance meeting between the D.A. and Lopez’s legal team.

Lopez’s brother, Saul Lopez, admitted in an affidavit that he contaminated the shorts used as evidence, Joe’s manager Sandra Treviño told KVEO, “The brother of Joe Lopez clearly admits to contaminating the shorts. The DNA evidence is what got Joe his imprisonment, had that proof been submitted, Joe would never have been sent to prison and there would have been a reasonable doubt about the DNA evidence.”

Lopez is under extensive supervision with limited time out of his home and anyone wishing to see or hear from him will have to wait.

RELATED: Manager for Joe Lopez releases statement on singer 30 days after prison release

“Joe, right now, is doing a lot of recording,” said Treviño. “He’s got the guitar, he’s singing some music. Joe will not be anywhere on stage for the next 8 months to a year. Joe is not ready for the public…Once Joe’s ready, then we’ll make sure that every fan that has supported and loved Joe throughout all these years has that opportunity to see him and hear his voice.”

Lopez’s legal team calls the meeting with the District Attorney a success and plans to get the paperwork ready for retesting of the DNA evidence.

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Ashley Quintanilla drops debut single ‘Te Vas’ [AUDIO]

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Ashley Quintanilla | Courtesy photo

Ashley Quintanilla released her debut single, “Te Vas,” on May 18.  The romantic cumbia from the Corpus Christi, Texas native was written by Mario Newman Jr. and produced by Lorenzo Banda. It is the lead single from her upcoming debut album Vivir Otra Vez.

“‘Te Vas’ is one of my favorite songs, just ’cause I can relate to the song,” Quintanilla told Tejano Nation. “I released ‘Te Vas’ as my first single, because it’s the only song on the album, I got to put myself into besides vocally. I wrote the music and lyrics to the intro of the album version.”

An edited version of the song was sent to radio this week, but the album version’s intro is very special to Quintanilla.

“It’s such a cool song and one day I just sat at my keyboard and played and the first thing I heard I loved,” she said. “I had no idea I was gonna really use it, but people I showed it to loved it. I think it gives the song a uniqueness. I’m very happy with it.”

Vivir Otra Vez is being recorded at the famed Freddie Records studios in Corpus Christi, Texas with Mariano Herrera, who did the mixing and mastering for “Te Vas.”

Quintanilla plans to release an official music video for “Te Vas” in a couple of weeks and the album should be ready by the end of summer.

Stay up to date on Ashley Quintanilla, including upcoming events, on her official Facebook page, @AshleyQuintanillaOficial.

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LISTEN: “Te Vas” (Album Version) — Ashley Quintanilla

 

 

Los Amigos ASG cover ‘Amigo’ for latest single [AUDIO]

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Los Amigos ASG have released “Amigo”, the lead single from their upcoming project. The song was composed by Roberto Carlos and was a hit for the legendary Pio Treviño Y Magic.

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.

Phillip Garcia, the group’s musical director and producer, says he’s been fan of the song “Amigo” since he was younger.

“That song always stood out to me, even as a little kid,” Garcia told Tejano Nation. “When I grew up and became a musician, that song always stayed in the back of my mind. I’ve always wanted to play it and record it.”

Los Amigo ASG added their own style to the classic track to introduce it to the newer generation of Tejano fans.

“I always wanted to change it up,” he added. “I could never figure out a way to update it in our way. Everybody knows us for our cumbias and it was the right time to bring this song out.”

The group brings a blend of new style while keeping with traditional Tejano soul. Los Amigos ASG consists of five members, vocalist Richard Garza, drummer Albert Garcia Jr, guitarist Blaze Fernandez, bassist Xavier Olguin and Phillip Garcia on keyboards, accordion and saxophone.

Learn more about Los Amigos ASG at their official Facebook page, @LosAmigos.ASG.

“Amigo” is available now at all major digital platforms.

LISTEN: “Amigo” — Los Amigos ASG

AJ Castillo debuts in top 5 of iTunes Latin Albums Chart within first day of release

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AJ Castillo debuted in the top 5 of the iTunes Latin Albums Chart, just one day after the release of the eponymous album on May 22.

According to PopVortex.com, a website that tracks iTunes charts, AJ Castillo ranked fifth of the most popular and best selling Latin albums on iTunes as of Wednesday, May 23 2018, at 5:21 pm.

PopVortex.com

The highly-anticipated album from Castillo features 10 songs, including the hit singles “Actua,” “Esta Noche,” “Las Mujeres” and the recently released Conjunto collaboration with Jaime DeAnda of Jaime Y Los Chamacos, “Obra Maestra.”

“We worked a long time on this album. long hours and many, many, long nights of making sure every detail was perfect,” said Gabriel Zavala, the album’s producer. “‘Obra Maestra/Masterpiece’ was mixed 50 times to get it just right. I really hope you guys enjoy listening to this album as much as we enjoyed making it!”

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https://embed.music.apple.com/us/album/aj-castillo/1383839063

Beatriz Gonzalez tops 600,000 views for ‘Los Laureles’ video on Vevo

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Rising singer Beatriz Gonzalez has topped over 600,000 views for her muisc video “Los Laureles” on Vevo.  The video, released in January, features her soulful rendition of the popular ranchera that has been recorded by many artists.

Gonzalez became a viral sensation in November 2017 when a video of the singer belting out an impromptu performance of the classic hit, made famous by Linda Ronstadt from her 1987 album Canciones de Mi Padre, at the famous San Antonio eatery Mi Tierra garnered millions of views, currently at over 15 million views.

After her recent success, the singer released a five-song EP, La Tequilera Vol. 1, featuring covers of classic Mariachi hits.  The EP, released on May 18, is available now at SilentGiantEntertainment.com and all major digital platforms.

Follow Tejano Nation on FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, for the latest Tejano music, news and entertainment.

 

 

Isabel Marie reveals band name with live concert DVD release [VIDEO]

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Young singing sensation Isabel Marie revealed the name of her band at the same time unveiling her highly-anticipated live concert DVD, Isabel Marie and the Vibe Live In Concert.

RELATED: Abraham Quintanilla praises Isabel Marie as the ‘whole package’

The 15-year-old singer took to her Facebook page to give fans a first glimpse of the DVD on Thursday night.

“This is the first time we’re telling anybody the (band) name, I’m so excited,” said Isabel Marie.

She also introduced a few members of The Vibe as she unveiled the DVD from a box showcasing the cover.

“We’re so excited,” added Isabel Marie. “I want to thank you guys for all your support.”

The DVD recorded at Q Productions studios in Corpus Christi features a total of 11 songs from her first two albums, her debut album New Girl In Town and the follow-up Sígueme.  It is available now for $10.00 at Q-Productions.com.

RELATED: Isabel Marie talks sophomore album ‘Sígueme’ + more on Tejano Nation Radio [PODCAST]

Follow Tejano Nation on FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, for the latest Tejano music, news and entertainment.

WATCH: Isabel Marie reveals band name and live concert DVD

Lucky Joe surprises fan with hospital serenade [VIDEO]

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Photo by Florie Vasquez / Facebook

Lucky Joe took time out of his busy schedule this past weekend to visit and serenade a fan in a Corpus Christi hospital. 

Video and photos shared on social media by Sherry Zamora feature Lucky Joe visiting her aunt, Janie Peña. Peña had planned to attend Lucky Joe’s show this weekend, but could not attend because she was in the hospital. The singer showed up with guitar in hand and surprised Peña with a visit and serenaded her with a few songs.

Janie Pena and Lucky Joe | Photo: Sherry Zamora Facebook

“This is a moment we will cherish forever,” Zamora captioned a photo of Peña with Lucky Joe. “It’s not quite often wishes and dreams come true. There’s nothing I would not do to see this woman God blessed me with to be my aunt SMILE…I’m beyond thankful that Lucky Joe took time out of his busy schedule today to stop by the hospital to sing and visit with her.”

Lucky Joe also gave Peña some CDs, so that she can listen to his music anytime.

“Talk about an amazing woman,” Lucky Joe exclaimed. “It was an honor to meet you Janie. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Please say a little prayer for my friend Janie tonight friends.”

 

WATCH: Lucky Joe surprise fan with hospital visit and serenade

 


Pete Espinoza returns with ‘Aquí No Queda Nada’ from upcoming album [AUDIO]

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Pete Espinoza is no stranger to any Tejano music fan. He was the frontman for legendary group La Fiebre for 27 years. Now, the Grammy nominated singer and songwriter has returned with a new single, “Aquí No Queda Nada,” from his upcoming solo album.

The single, released to radio on Monday, was written by Espinoza and features the Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame singer’s signature sound.

It’s the lead single from his upcoming album, Nuevos Caminos, expected to be released this summer from Fuerte Records

“Aquí No Queda Nada” will be available at all digital platforms soon.

Follow Tejano Nation on FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, for the latest Tejano music, news and entertainment.

LISTEN: “Aquí No Queda Nada” (Snippet) — Pete Espinoza

 

 

Shelly Lares talks personal goals, recent projects [VIDEO]

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Tucson waited anxiously for a performance of Shelly Lares at Club 4th Ave on May 25, sponsored by GFR Entertainment. Tejano Nation contributor DJ Peaches caught up with the Tejano star during soundcheck, watching Lares orchestrating and fine tuning each instrument, giving instruction to the band members. One band member, Tucson’s own Samuel Templeton, from the band Ritmo de Sanchez, fit right in playing each song perfectly as he has time and time again.

Lares stated how important being healthy and working out is to her. No matter what her schedule, she makes time to work out. She is amazed on how long she has been in the Tejano industry, 35 years to be exact,  stating the industry has been good to her and she has been able to provide for her parents. Her goal has been accomplished, her longevity in the Tejano music industry. The singer praised fans for always supporting all that she does.

The star mentioned her personal goals. Even though she loves Tejano, she has the drive to become a Hospice Nurse and will be starting school at the end of summer. She wears different hats, such as producing, songwriting, and collaborating. A few artists she has collaborated with and mentored, include Crystal Torres, Anjelique, and recently a collaboration with Stevie D.

New projects coming this week will be a collaboration with Rick Fuentes and a tribute album for Jessy Serrata, who passed away last year.

Lares stated she has grown in the last year, as a woman, an artist and is in a very good place in her life.

The singer’s influences features a wide spectrum of music genres, from Kings of Leon and Miranda Lambert, to Glen Miller. In the Tejano genre, she admires internationally known Patsy Torres.

Lares will once again host her “Shelly’s All-American Showcase” at the 2018 Tejano Music National Convention in Las Vegas, August 23-26.

For Shelly Lares merchandise call 210-434-8543 or email IreneLares@yahoo.com.

Follow Tejano Nation on FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, for the latest Tejano music, news and entertainment.

 

AJ Castillo drops squeezebox cover of Raymix’s ‘Oye Mujer’ [AUDIO]

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AJ Castillo dropped a remix cover of “Oye Mujer” on Tuesday, the worldwide cumbia hit from Raymix.  The hit song got an official remix with Latin singer Juanes recently, but Castillo wanted to add his own flavor to the song.

“I thought the original version was super dope, just the vibe alone was fire and I found myself always listening to this song over and over,” Castillo said. “Then I heard Juanes cover it and he added guitar, so I was wondering what the accordion would sound like playing the leads.”

Castillo laid down his vocals and accordion, then sent it off to super producer Gabriel Zavala for his added production skills.

“He laced the beat and laid some bass and bajo sexto,” Castillo said. “A few hours later we had this. Hope you enjoy it!”

Castillo recently released his self-titled album on May 22, but he said he has no plans to release this cover of “Oye Mujer.”

“I didn’t record it to release it as a single,” he said. “I just really like the song and wanted to remix/cover it.”

Follow Tejano Nation on FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, for the latest Tejano music, news and entertainment.

LISTEN: “Oye Mujer” (Remix) — AJ Castillo

 

 

 

Art Tigerina Band covers ‘No Te Olvidare’ for lead single from upcoming sophomore album

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Art Tigerina | Photo credit: Linda Valles

The Art Tigerina Band have released, “No Te Olvidare” featuring Cortney Rico, the lead single from their upcoming sophomore album.  It’s a cover of the 1991 Tejano Music Awards Song of the Year, written and performed by Joe Lopez Y Grupo Mazz.

The iconic ballad is revered by many, and it is the hope and anticipation of Art Tigerina and the Art Tigerina Band that this new twist to a long time favorite will be enjoyed by those who listen.

“We knew it would definitely be a gutsy move to re-record this amazing song,” said Tigerina. “Artists many times do this to iconic songs and it doesn’t do the song justice and people don’t like it. We believe that because of our musicianship, production quality, and respect for the music that the release of ‘No Te Olvidare’ will be appreciated. Besides, I’m a pretty gutsy guy, so I’m always up for the challenge.”

“No Te Olvidare” was produced by Eric “E-Rock” Avalos with Chavalos Music, Inc. and includes female vocals performed by rising singer Cortney Rico.

Tigerina recorded 10 album during his tenure with Grupo Vida, receiving two Grammy nominations, multiple Tejano Music Awards awards and nominations, and many other accolades for their music.  He left Vida in 2013 and began his solo career almost two years after his departure, releasing De Mi No Te Olvidaras, Art Tigerina Band’s debut album in June 2017.

He is proud of the music he has released in his solo career with the Art Tigerina Band and feels it’s a true reflection of the style of music he wants to sing.

The band’s sophomore album is expected to be released in late 2018, and the Art Tigerina Band looks forward to bringing fans more the same sound from the debut album with hardcore Tejano rancheras, cumbias, and maybe even some of that highly requested country music Art does well!

For information on booking the Art Tigerina Band, please email tigerinaentertainment@gmail.com and follow the band on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/arttigerinaband for band and show updates.

Follow Tejano Nation on FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, for the latest Tejano music, news and entertainment.

 

 

 

Grupo Anaya features fusion of sounds for ‘Iniciando Tejunto’ album

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Grupo Anaya released their new album Inciando Tejunto recently on Freddie Records and it features the band’s unique fusion of Tejano and Conjunto.

The album’s lead single “Te Quiero Ver,” released in March, is about how much love someone has for the love of their life. It was written by band member Mike Flores, who says he was inspired by his wife for the song.

“I was truck driving and started getting away from home a lot and I started missing her so much,” Flores told Tejano Nation radio affiliate Tejano 1600 during a recent interview before a show in Tucson, Arizona. “It came pretty natural while I’m ridin’ around the road…just talking from the heart.”

The 12 song disc released on May 18, blends different sounds according band member Ruben Madrigal in an interview with Tejano 1600.

“This album has a blend of different musical backgrounds that we really enjoy playing,” he said. “We would play around with the word ‘Tejunto’, so we had kind of blended Tejano and Conjunto together. We got a lot of different songs with different styles. It’s actually kind of our own genre that we’re actually creating, something very special.”

Iniciando Tejunto is available now at FreddieStore.com and all major digital platforms.

Follow Tejano Nation on FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, for the latest Tejano music, news and entertainment.

WATCH: “Te Quiero Ver” — Grupo Anaya

 

 

 

Tejano icon Jimmy Gonzalez passes away at 67

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Jimmy Gonzalez | Photo by Tommy Gunz Photography

Tejano Nation has learned that Tejano music icon Jimmy Gonzalez has passed away. He was 67. The co-founder of six-time Grammy winning group Mazz died at a San Antonio hospital Wednesday morning, according to his family.

According to the Brownsville Herald, promotions manager Eloy Leija said Gonzalez died at 9:57 a.m. after dealing with medical issues.

This is a developing story. Tejano Nation will have more details as they become available.

Gonzalez formed one of the most powerful partnerships in Tejano music history with Joe Lopez for legendary group Mazz. He was the band’s chief songwriter and producer that generated many unforgettable hits. Mazz was a sensation from its inception in 1978. The success continued until the fall of 1998, when the pair parted ways.

Gonzalez continued producing many more hits for Mazz over the last twenty years.

Jimmy Gonzalez Y Grupo Mazz released their last album, Porque Todavia Te Quiero, on April 6.

 

 

Freddie Records releases statement on passing of Tejano icon Jimmy Gonzalez

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Photo courtesy of Freddie Records

Tejano icon Jimmy Gonzalez passed away on Wednesday morning in a San Antonio hospital. He was 67.

His record label, Freddie Records, released a statement on Wednesday afternoon.

“It is with great sadness and regret that we announce that Tejano music pioneer, legend, and multiple Latin Grammy winner, Jimmy Gonzalez, passed away earlier this morning in a San Antonio hospital after a brief illness,” said the statement. “We at Freddie Records extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Jimmy Gonzalez, as well as the entire Grupo Mazz organization. We thank his fans around the world for their continued love and support.”

Born and raised in Brownsville, Texas, Gonzalez co-founded the legendary Grupo Mazz in 1978 and went on to achieve international acclaim as one of the most successful Tejano groups ever. Under his guidance as producer, guitarist, vocalist, and main musical mastermind, Grupo Mazz achieved unprecedented success topping the charts and winning numerous awards including platinum and gold records for outstanding sales, as well as numerous Tejano Music Awards.

“The legacy of Jimmy Gonzalez will continue to live on forever through his unforgettable music, his incredible artistry, and his many contributions to the Tejano music industry,” said Freddie Records.

Jimmy Gonzalez Y Grupo Mazz joined the Freddie Records family of artists in 1999. In that time, the band recorded 18 albums with the label including the hit albums, Quién Iba A Pensar, Siempre Humilde, The Legend Continues, Mazz Live Reunion – The Last Dance, and Que Cante El Mundo. His latest album, Porque Todavía Te Quiero was released this past April.

Gonzalez achieved many accolades throughout his years on Freddie Records including an unprecedented 6 consecutive Latin Grammy wins for Best Tejano Album, a streak that has never been matched.

Read the full statement from Freddie Records here.

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Joe Lopez speaks on passing of Jimmy Gonzalez in emotional interview [VIDEO]

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Tejano icon Jimmy Gonzalez passed away on Wednesday and Joe Lopez broke his silence since being released from prison to speak about the passing of his childhood friend and co-founder of Grupo Mazz.

Gonzalez died in a San Antonio hospital on Wednesday morning after a brief illness, according his record label Freddie Records.

Lopez spoke about Gonzalez’s passing in an emotional interview with KVEO-TV in the Rio Grande Valley.

 

Joey Garcia de Los Garcia Brothers habla nuevos proyectos y más [VIDEO]

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Los Garcia Brothers hablaron con Fanny Gurl contribudora de Tejano Nation antes de su presentacion en el Casino Del Sol en Tucson, Arizona May 18, 2018.

Joe Garcia hablo de su hermano Jimmy Garcia y de sus nuevos projectos. Garcia tambien le mando un consejo al nuevo talento que esta empesando su carrera en la musica.

Sigue a Tejano Nation en FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, para obtener la última música y noticias de Tejano.

 

 

Freddie Martinez Jr talks passing of Tejano icon Jimmy Gonzalez [VIDEO]

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Tejano icon Jimmy Gonzalez passed away on Wednesday in a San Antonio hospital. The 67-year-old singer and musician was a pioneer, a legend and multiple Grammy award winner. He co-founded Grupo Mazz in 1978 and went on to achieve international acclaim as one of the most successful Tejano groups ever.

Freddie Martinez Jr. of Freddie Records talked about the loss of one of Tejano music’s biggest stars in an interview with Corpus Christi television station 3News.

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Jimmy Gonzalez funeral services announced for June 11 – 12

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Jimmy Gonzalez | Photo by John Onta Waldo Salamanca

Tejano icon Jimmy Gonzalez passed away Wednesday in a San Antonio hospital. He was 67.

The funeral services for Gonzalez have been announced.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Monday, June 11, 2018 at the Brownsville Event Center, 1 Event Circle. The Funeral Mass is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 12, 2018, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1914 Barnard Road in Brownsville, Texas. Committal services will follow at Buena Vista Burial Park.

Born and raised in Brownsville, Texas, Gonzalez co-founded the legendary Grupo Mazz in 1978 and went on to achieve international acclaim as one of the most successful Tejano groups ever. Under his guidance as producer, guitarist, vocalist, and main musical mastermind, Grupo Mazz achieved unprecedented success topping the charts and winning numerous awards including platinum and gold records for outstanding sales, as well as numerous Tejano Music Awards.

Jimmy Gonzalez Y Grupo Mazz joined the Freddie Records family of artists in 1999. In that time, the band recorded 18 albums with the label including the hit albums, Quién Iba A PensarSiempre HumildeThe Legend ContinuesMazz Live Reunion – The Last Dance, and Que Cante El Mundo. His latest album, Porque Todavía Te Quiero was released this past April.

Gonzalez achieved many accolades throughout his years on Freddie Records including an unprecedented 6 consecutive Latin Grammy wins for Best Tejano Album, a streak that has never been matched.

Follow Tejano Nation on FacebookTwitter and Instagram@TejanoNation, for the latest Tejano music, news and entertainment.

Tejano legend Freddie Martinez issues statement on passing of Jimmy Gonzalez

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Freddie Martinez, Sr. and Jimmy Gonzalez | Photo: Freddie Martinez Facebook

Tejano music icon and mulitple Grammy winner Jimmy Gonzalez passed away on June 6 at the age of 67.

His untimely passing was a shock to the Tejano music industry, including Freddie Martinez, Sr., the founder of legendary record label Freddie Records. Gonzalez was a part of the Freddie Records family of artists since 1999 and Martinez released a statement on Friday, June 8 about the huge loss of the Tejano music icon.

Read the full statement from Freddie Records founder, Freddie Martinez Sr., on the untimely passing of Jimmy Gonzalez:

I’m extremely saddened at the untimely loss of a true music legend, pioneer, and Tejano icon, Jimmy Gonzalez. For nearly 40 years, Jimmy’s name has been synonymous with Tejano music. He’s been recognized as one of the greatest music producers ever of the genre. Over the past 20 years, I had the honor and privilege of working side by side with Jimmy in the studio as a co-producer, executive producer, and songwriter for many of his recordings. I was very fortunate to witness firsthand Jimmy’s passion for creativity in the studio. He was a true musician’s musician who always took great pride in putting together the absolute best production possible. He was a perfectionist who cared about delivering great music and living up to his fans’ expectations. His fans meant everything to him.

I have so many great memories of working with Jimmy. In 2004, I wrote a song for Jimmy called “Corazón Dormido”. I gave him a demo to listen to while he was in the studio at the time working on his PARA MI GENTE album. He loved the song and immediately went to work putting together an arrangement with the classic Mazz sound. When he was finished, the song sounded beautiful. Jimmy had stayed true to the original melody of the song but had sprinkled that Jimmy G magic that we all came to know and love. The song became a big hit for Jimmy that year and went on to win several awards. The following year, I presented another song to Jimmy called “Corazón De Fierro”. Again, Jimmy produced a fantastic arrangement for it and released it on his album, MEJOR QUE NUNCA. In my opinion, Jimmy recorded one of his finest vocal performances ever on that song. He and the band filmed a music video for it and the song went on to become another big hit for Grupo Mazz.

In 2006, the original Grupo Mazz decided to reunite for a tour and a live album. Around that time, I’d been working on a new song called “A Las Escondidas”. When it was decided that they were going to record some new songs together, I presented this song to Jimmy. Without hesitation, he immediately went to work on it. Jimmy had a vision of how he wanted to produce the song and how it should sound. When he was finished, everyone in the studio was amazed. We all knew we had a hit. Again, Jimmy took the melody and lyrics that I had written and created an unbelievably beautiful arrangement. “A Las Escondidas” became the first single from the MAZZ LIVE REUNION album and went on to win the Latin Grammy for Best Regional Mexican Song in 2008. I was extremely proud to share that honor with Jimmy Gonzalez.

In more recent years, Jimmy had donated his time and talent and assisted me by being a featured performer at the annual Spirit Of Hope Christmas Concert for Most Precious Blood Church in Corpus Christi. Jimmy was very close to the church and always looked forward to playing for his fans. Throughout the years, he performed numerous times at the SOH concerts and would always stay afterwards to enjoy talking with his fans, signing autographs, taking pictures, and enjoying fellowship.

Jimmy Gonzalez was already an established superstar when he became part of the Freddie Records family of artists in 1999. For years, I’d always admired him as a great musician and the true musical mastermind behind Grupo Mazz’s success. We were all very proud when Jimmy joined the label and even prouder of all the accomplishments and accolades Jimmy achieved while with us. There will never be another musical genius quite like Jimmy Gonzalez. His legacy will continue to live on through the beautiful music he created and blessed us with. I’m proud to have been able to call Jimmy my friend. I’m sure he’s now in heaven producing the most beautiful music of all. I love you and I’ll miss you. God bless you Jimmy.

Your friend, Freddie Martinez, Sr.

Funeral services for Gonzalez have been set for June 11 – 12.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Monday, June 11, 2018 at the Brownsville Event Center, 1 Event Circle. The Funeral Mass is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 12, 2018, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1914 Barnard Road in Brownsville, Texas. Committal services will follow at Buena Vista Burial Park.

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