Tejano Nation

Conjunto pioneer and music legend Henry Zimmerle passed away on Tuesday (Nov. 26) in San Antonio, Texas. He was 79.

The news of his passing was announced by Zimmerle’s son, Henry Zimmerle III, via social media, “It is in my deepest sadness to announce that my father, Henry Zimmerle, has gained his wings to be with our Lord.”

The Tejano Conjunto Hall of Famer was a singer, songwriter, bajo sexto player and a member of the famous Zimmerle family of musicians that included his father Henry, Sr, uncle Fred and cousin Nick Villareal. He recorded 101 albums in a career of over 50 years with legendary record labels such as Falcon, Tear Drop Records and Hacienda Records, just to name a few.

“His chart blowing songs he shared with all his fans, family and friends will always be remembered and heard,” his son added.

Legendary Conjunto singers and musicians took to social media to remember the music legend. Singer Linda Escobar wrote, “We lost another great among the greats. Thank you Don Henry for your beautiful music. We will never forget you. All my respect for you, Maestro!”

Legendary accordionist Flaco Jimenez said, “Another great pioneer of Conjunto and our long-time friend Henry Zimmerle has left us but our memories and his music will forever live.”

Zimmerle was born in San Antonio, Texas on June 17, 1940. He began playing music at the age of 8. Along with other great musicians of his era, he was instrumental in the evolution of Conjunto music. Using his knowledge of the bajo sexto and electric guitar, he could manipulate the electric guitar to sound like an electric bajo sexto creating a unique sound that would become his signature throughout his legendary career.

Funeral services for Zimmerle are scheduled for Dec. 8 – 9 in San Antonio, Texas. On Sunday, Dec. 8, there will be a visitation at Castillo Mission Funeral Home located at 520 North General McMullen from 4 to 9 p.m., with Rosary at 7 p.m. Then on Monday, Dec. 9, there will be a funeral Mass at 10 a.m at Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower, 1715 N. Zaramora Street, with burial to follow at San Fernando Cemetery II, 746 Castroville Road.

Like Tejano Nation on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with everything Tejano. Listen to new Tejano music first with our playlists on Spotify and Soundcloud.

Christian Serratos portrays Selena in a promo for “Selena: The Series” | YouTube

The names of seven cast members added to the Netflix “Selena” series were announced this week, according to reports.

The actors will portray Chris Perez, Selena’s guitarist and husband at the time of her passing; Pete Astudillo, Selena’s back-up singer, dancer and musical collaborator; band members Ricky Vela, keyboardist and songwriter, and Joe Ojeda, also a keyboardist; a young A.B. Quintanilla, Selena’s older brother who plays bass and eventually pens several Selena hits; a young Suzette Quintanilla, Selena’s older sister and confidante who plays drums in her sister’s band, and Roger Garcia, described as a guitarist for Selena y Los Dinos during the band’s early years.

Actor Julio Macias, of Netflix’s “On My Block,” will play Astudillo; Jesse Posey, younger brother of actor Tyler Posey will portray Perez; Hunter Reese Peña will play Vela; Carlos Alfredo, Jr., has the role of Ojeda.

In addition to these series regulars, recurring roles will feature Juan Martinez as young A.B.; Daniela Estrada as young Suzette; and Paul Rodriguez, Jr. as Garcia.

In late August, AMC’s “The Walking Dead” star Christian Serratos was named for the coveted role of Tejano superstar Selena.

In early October, “Desperate Housewives” star Ricardo Chavira was cast as Selena’s father, Abraham Quintanilla and Gabriel Chavarria of “The Purge” TV series was selected for the role of A.B. Quintanilla.

Other actresses named to the series include Seidy Lopez as Selena’s mother, Marcella, Noemi Gonzalez as an older Suzette, and Madison Taylor Baez as a young Selena.

Media outlets Deadline, Remezcla, and UPI were among those who announced the castings this week.

“Selena: The Series,” will air on Netflix in 2020 and follows the beloved singer’s road to fame before her untimely passing at the age of 23.

Gilbert Fierros has been a part of one of the best Conjunto showbands for many years with Los Chamacos. The Tejano R.O.O.T.S. Hall of Fame recently announced the musician and vocalist would be inducted this January.

Fierros spoke to Tejano Nation‘s Juan Morin about his upcoming induction, moving forward after the iconic conjunto group’s separation from former frontman Jaime DeAnda, and how fans have accepted the latest version of Los Chamacos.

“It’s a difficult situation, ” Fierros said about continuing after the separation of DeAnda from Los Chamacos. “It’s an honor the guys are giving me the opportunity to help them in that little chapter we’ve got going on.”

Fierros thanked the current Los Chamacos veteran members for their support throughout the years and also thanked DeAnda.

Fierros shared his journey from roadie to frontman and enjoying the experience.

“It’s a blessing that the fans are accepting it,” he said. “It doesn’t matter who you’ve got, you’ve got to move forward.”

Hear more from Fierros about his role as animador for Los Chamacos and the tough nature of the music industry in this exclusive interview.

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

Joe Lopez will release a “special surprise” on Friday night, Nov. 29, according to his new record label.

The singer’s new record label, Monterrey Music, made the announcement today via social media that Joe Lopez fans can expect a special surprise at 8:00 p.m.

It’s a holiday tune, “Llego Navidad,” that will debut on the label’s YouTube channel. This is the first music release from the singer since being paroled from prison in March of 2018.

This is just the latest news on the crooner’s comeback. Earlier this month it was announced a new band was formed to back up Lopez. Three songs were recorded a few weeks ago and dates have been scheduled for the return of Joe Lopez to the stage.

Lopez was a part of legendary Grupo Mazz, one of the most popular groups in Tejano music, recording hit songs “No Te Olvidare,” “Estupido Romantico,” “Ven Devorame Otra Vez”, “Que Me Lleven Canciones,” and many more.

The singer was paroled in March 2018 after he served 12 years of his 32-year prison sentence for multiple sex offenses involving his 13-year-old niece. Lopez, who is a registered sex offender, has always maintained his innocence and is working towards exoneration.

Fans have been anticipating the return of Joe Lopez to the Tejano music scene since the singer was paroled from prison in March 2018. “Llegó Navidad” is a collaboration with other artists from his new record label and is the first music released from the vocalist in over a decade.

Monterrey Music uploaded the music video to its YouTube channel on Friday night.

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

Jesse Turner of Siggno posted a personal video directly from his bed in a Laredo hospital early this morning after suffering flu-like symptoms and thinking he possibly could have a hernia.

Turner describes feeling intense pain after walking off stage and said he even told the fans at the Laredo concert that he likely had the flu.

He underwent tests that show he is suffering from an infection and Turner feels he should be able to perform as planned in Kingsville on Saturday night. The infection was affecting his nerves so that’s why he had pain. He is being treated with antibiotics.

Turner looked and sounded weak but flashed his signature smile toward the video’s end as he thanked his fans.

“This is what happened to me last night in Laredo, TX after the show,” Turner captioned the video. “I don’t feel 100% but I will give you my tonight in Kingsville, TX.”

Siggno performed Friday night at Laredo’s Casablanca Event Center and is scheduled to perform tonight at Kingsville’s JK Northway Exposition Center.

“Like” Tejano Nation on Facebook

Eddie Perez, Jr and Gabriel Zavala (right) perform at 39th Tejano Music Awards in San Antonio, Texas on Nov. 16, 2019. | Photo: Mariaelena Arocha

Best known as the multi-talented, multi-instrumentalist and producer for top Tejano star Stefani Montiel, Gabriel Zavala also lends a hand in the career paths of many new and even, established artists.

Listen to Zavala, and hear his infectious passion for Tejano music, in this Tejano Nation exclusive interview as he mentions just a few of the careers his talent has touched.

He collaborated with 2019 Tejano Music Awards (TMA) Best New Female Vocalist nominee Aisha; and wrote and produced the single, “Mi Vida Loca,” for Anjelique, who won 2019 TMA Best New Female Vocalist and 2019 TMA Best New Group, with her Sweet City Band. Zavala also lent his musical expertise to young Tristan Ramos, winner of the 2019 TMA Best New Male Vocalist award.

Zavala was even featured in the 2019 Video of the Year award winner, “Loca Peligrosa,” from Savannah Votion.

“The Onda is growing so much right now,” Zavala said. “There’s so many new artists doing their thing.”

Zavala spoke about the excitement of the Tejano Music Awards, too. (By the way, Zavala, along with Montiel and DJ Kane, won Best Collaboration of the Year at the 39th Annual Tejano Music Awards for the reggaeton-tinged cumbia, “Sol, Arena, Ron y Mar.” In the catchy, fast-paced party cumbia, Zavala cleverly combines Montiel’s versatile vocals with DJ Kane’s distinctive voice and skilled rapping.)

“The Tejano Music Awards are always just energy, fire,” Zavala said. “It’s awesome.”

He then invited Tejano music fans who couldn’t make it this year to mark their calendars for next year’s Tejano Music Awards.

“I hear it’s going to be even bigger and better in 2020,” he said.

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

From Texas to Arizona, Veronique Medrano and Teresa Morales are set to release a new children’s book “Papito And The Squeezebox”, as part of the first line of products from Apogee Publishing.

This project was a year in the making for author and creator Morales. The inspiration for the book came from her two boys, who were born 16 months apart.

“Papito And The Squeezebox” is a heartwarming tale of a young boy searching for his identity through his love of Tejano music. His musical skills are put to the test, but with the help of his family and his cultura, he finds the magic he was looking for all along.

“Papito gives families and children an opportunity to see a child’s Hispanic culture celebrated and shows all extraordinary things that come along with it like Tejano music and family,” said Morales. “I hope people see all the love and joy that is in this story, as I’ve been inspired to continue writing and encouraging kids to reach for the stars and work hard. I never knew it was possible to have my dream of putting out this book come true, so if I can do this…then anything is possible.”

Growing up, Morales always had music around her. From listening to it in her Tia’s kitchen, learning the lyrics to every song, and watching her niño perform in his Tejano band, she loved it. When she met her husband Chris, she knew she couldn’t have found a better match who enjoyed music as much as she did if not more. Falling even more in love with Tejano music after seeing the joy it brought her boys was priceless and inspirational.

Teresa Morales was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. She has been a teacher for the past seven years while being a busy wife and mom of two boys.

Veronique Medrano, a six-time Tejano Music Awards nominee, born and raised in Brownsville, Texas, is now growing her reach with her role as Editor and Chief of Apogee Publishing. With a Bachelor’s Degree in English from the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley and currently enrolled at the University of North Texas for a Master’s in Library Sciences, it only felt right for her to move forward in this direction combining her work in the Tejano music industry and her love of books.

“To be a part of the Tejano/Xicano culture you have to be actively working for its success,” said Medrano about the book. “When Teresa reached out to me with this concept it was something that I not only had to support but also felt vested in seeing it succeed. I’m honored to have this be our first Tejano focused children’s book. It pays homage to icons and looks at how the music is seen through the eyes of a child.”

This book is unique as it is one of the few to have women in every major aspect of its creation including the artwork. Illustration for this book comes from up and coming south Texas artist Marissa Valdez. Valdez attended the Massachusetts College of Art and Design in Boston and graduated with a degree in Animation. Although working as a Graphic Designer during the day, her true passion is children’s book illustrations. She received the illustration portfolio grand prize at the Houston Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Conference in September. She looks forward to illustrating a wide variety of children’s books in the future. “Papito and the Squeezebox” is her first published illustration for Apogee Publishing.

The book is open for pre-order at www.theadventuresofpapito.com and www.veroniquemedrano.com and will ship out by no later than January 25, 2020.

Roger Velasquez & The Latin Legenz on red carpet at 39th Tejano Music Awards in San Antonio, Texas on Nov. 16, 2019. | Photo: Mariaelena Arocha

Tejano Nation caught up with Roger Velasquez & The Latin Legendz before the 39th annual Tejano Music Awards on Nov. 16 and he spoke about the group’s upcoming album for 2020, the group’s latest video, “Somos Ganadores,” and their TMA performance where they would be playing some of their newest music.

“It’s a beautiful day,” Velasquez said. “It’s a great time to be Tejano.”

Velasquez simply described his music as “Tejano,” referring to his win last year for Best Tejano Album at the Latin GRAMMYs.

Velasquez invited fans to his website, rogervelasquez.com, for his latest music, including photos of the group’s 2018 Latin GRAMMY win for Best Tejano Album with “Tex Mex Funk,” and when the group was presented with an award at the 2019 Latino Coalition Legislative Summit in Washington D.C. earlier this year.

Check out Roger Velasquez & The Latin Legendz on Facebook and catch the group’s new video for “Somos Ganadores,” featuring Joe Posada.

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

JR Gomez | Photo: Facebook/JR Gomez Y Los Conjunto Bandits

Award-winning Austin-based bandleader, accordionist and vocalist J.R. Gomez will host his second Annual Toy Drive at The BARn in Austin, Texas on Friday, December 6.

Proceeds from the event will once again benefit the families served by SAFE Alliance, a merger of Austin Children’s Shelter and SafePlace, both long-standing and respected human service agencies in Austin serving the survivors of child abuse, sexual assault and exploitation, and domestic violence.

This is the second year for the event, which is a labor of love for Gomez and allows him to realize one of his dreams of giving back to kids in need. Last year’s inaugural drive was wildly successful and Gomez himself was able to deliver over 250 toys and gifts, valued at nearly $2000.

JR Gomez Toy Drive 2018 | Courtesy photos

Austin-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Rancho Alegre is the fiscal sponsor of the event, allowing the contributions from donors and sponsors to be tax-deductible.

“We love this event! We were so honored that J.R. asked us to join him last year and we didn’t hesitate to jump on board again,” said Piper LeMoine, Rancho Alegre’s Communications Director. “We have always believed in supporting other non-profits who are doing great work in our community and have always included them at our Rancho Alegre Conjunto Festival. We are proud to say that 100% of the contributions made to Rancho Alegre in honor of this drive will go toward purchasing gifts and toys for the kids at SAFE.”

This year’s lineup includes bona fide legends and rising stars, with Ruben Ramos, Shelly Lares, Savannah Votion, Stevie D, the Conjunto Cats, and J.R. Gomez y Los Conjunto Bandits also taking the stage. The event is generously supported by Donn’s Barbecue and Midwest Conjunto Promotions.

The cover charge is either $10 donation or one unwrapped new toy per person, and all ages are welcome. The show runs from 7 p.m. to midnight, Friday, December 6 at The BARn, 6218 Brodie Lane in South Austin.

For further information, including a wishlist from SAFE Alliance and to donate online, visit jrgomeztoydrive.com.

Pio Treviño Y Majic plans a return with a new single, “Orgullosa Mujer,” on December 13.

The legendary crooner recently signed with Freddie Records in September and has been in the studio working on a full album.

A preview of the lead single from the upcoming disc was released this week from the legendary record label. “Classic Tejano at its best from the Majic Man,” exclaimed Freddie Records via social media.

Fans can pre-save the single on Spotify, Apple Music, or Deezer and get a first listen of the new track here.

Starting as a vocalist in the early ’70s for regional groups such as Los Exitos, and Sangre Chicana, Treviño drew national attention when he became the lead singer for La Movida. The group became an instant success, making the crooner a household name. He was the lead vocalist and composer of many of La Movida’s songs for several years until the formation of his own group Majic. The singer received a Grammy nomination in 1988 with his album “Quiero Verte Otra Vez” for Best Mexican-American Performance.

David Lee Garza Y Los Musicales premiered the official music video for “Destellame” on Tuesday (Dec. 3). It’s the latest release from the group’s album “Asi Es La Vida.”

The visual was filmed by Ryan Bazan, the man behind the Video of the Year winner at the Tejano Music Awards last month.

David Lee Garza Y Los Musicales – “Destellame”

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

Cezar Martinez | Photo: Tommy Gunz Photography

Cezar Martinez, the lead singer for David Lee Garza Y Los Musicales, was arrested on a charge of DWI last month.

KRIS-TV reports the 27-year-old singer was stopped for speeding by a Texas Department Of Public Safety (DPS) trooper while driving 81 miles per hour in a 65 miles per hour zone on a highway just west of Robstown, Texas at around 11 p.m. on Nov. 21.

According to the arrest report, the trooper noticed an open alcohol container inside the vehicle and determined Martinez was under the influence of alcohol. The singer was arrested and taken to the Nueces County Jail.

Martinez, who is also a Robstown city councilman, was later released on a $500 bond.

Read the full story at KRISTV.com.

Destiny Navaira dropped the official music video for her latest single “Entrégate, Entrégate” on Nov. 29.

Navaira is the next generation of the Navaira musical family, she is the daughter of Raulito Navaira and niece of late Tejano legend Emilio Navaira. She is preparing to release her highly-anticipated solo album, “La Preferida,” soon after much success as part of Grupo Remedio with her brother Rigo Navaira.

The song was co-written by Destiny along with Mike Aguilar Jr and Latin Grammy winner Juan Trevino.

“It’s a little bit different style for us,” Destiny said in a social media video. “We kind of took a risk, for a girl to do a cumbia like that is not really common but we love it. I love it!”

Destiny Navaira – “Entrégate, Entrégate”

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

Juan Carlos Villegas of Negami | Courtesy photo

Grupo Negami are set to host their annual holiday toy drive on Dec. 7 and frontman Juan Carlos Villegas shares details on the event that gives back to the Houston area community and much more in an exclusive Tejano Nation interview.

The lead singer also spoke about Negami’s highly-anticipated live concert CD and DVD, the group’s huge following in Mexico and much more with Tejano Nation contributor Juan Morin.

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

Negami’s 11th annual holiday toy drive and concert will take place Saturday, Dec. 7 at 13801 Holly Park in Houston from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will feature performances from Negami, 2019 Tejano Music Awards nominee Ismael Gutierrez, Monica Trevino, Bobby Ray Castillo, and more. Admission is an unwrapped new toy.

Konjunto Kompaz will hold their second annual Toys For Toys toy drive and dance on Friday, Dec. 6 in San Benito, Texas.

“Growing up I never had a gift on Christmas,” said John Cavazos of Konjunto Kompaz. “So I wanted to see if I could do something for kids that are less fortunate than mine.”

Konjunto Kompas Toy Drive 2018 | Courtesy photo

The event will feature performances from Konjunto Kompaz, Ruben Vela Jr, Tony Lopez Y Su Conjunto, and Ambizzion.

7 – 8 pm DJ
8 – 8:50 pm Grupo Ambizzion
9 – 9:50 pm Tony Lopez y su Conjunto
9:50 – 10:20 pm DJ
10:20 – 11:10 pm Ruben Vela Jr
11:20 – 12:10 am Konjunto Kompaz

Admission is $5 or new unwrapped toy valued at $5. The toy drive and dance will take place Friday, Dec. 6 at KC Hall, located at 826 S. Stenger St. in San Benito, from 7 pm to 1 am.

Art Tigerina (left) and Chris Castaneda | Courtesy photos

Art Tigerina released the holiday song “What Child is This?” featuring Austin, Texas-based guitarist Chris Castaneda just in time to add to your holiday playlist.

Tigerina always wanted to record a Christmas song, “Every holiday season we talk about recording a Christmas song,” he said. “With my busy touring and recording schedule, I never seem to have enough time. This season I wanted to give thanks for all my blessings and made sure to make time to record a special Christmas song.”

Tigerina teamed up for the first time with Castaneda, an artist he truly admires. “Chris is a beast on the guitar and an all-around great artist,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to do a collaboration with him. I never thought it would be on a Christmas song, but when we thought of recording “What Child Is This?” I knew I didn’t want to record it with anyone else on guitar. I knew we could put a new, cool spin on a traditional Christmas song.”

The Christmas tune was produced by Grammy winner Hugo Guerrero at Nightmare Audio Productions.

“Hugo produced my first solo album, “De Mi No Te Olvidaras,” and I trust his talent and creativity,” said Tigerina. “Hugo is a genius in the studio. I think he did an amazing job producing this song.”

Art Tigerina — “What Child Is This?” featuring Chris Castaneda

New Tejano R.O.O.T.S. Hall of Fame inductee Eddie Gonzalez recently shared details on his induction, upcoming music and much more with Tejano Nation before his performance at Club 4th in Tucson, Arizona.

Gonzalez, known as the “Dancing Cowboy,” told Tejano Nation contributor Fanny Gurl about his experience of his induction into the Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame in 2018, his new upcoming country album titled “ The 180” and his new Tejano album titled “Tex-Mex.”

The singer also gave his thoughts on the evolution of Tejano music and advice to the young generation that are starting their career in the music industry.

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

Embed from Getty Images

Popstar Ally Brooke honored her idol Selena with a medley of hits from the late Latin music icon during the Miss Universe pageant on Sunday night.

Wearing an elegant black and silver gown, complete with shimmering diamond jewelry, the 26-year-old singer performed an emotional rendition of Selena’s “I Could Fall In Love,” to introduce the evening gown segment of the competition.

The former Fifth Harmony member belted out a beautiful cover of “Dreaming of You” as she was joined by the pageant’s Top 10 finalists ending the performance while hitting a high note and smiling for the crowd.

Selena’s sister, Suzette Quintanilla, praised Ally Brooke’s performance via Instagram.

“Never imagine I would ever ever everrr hear This song sang at a MISS UNIVERSE pageant!” she captioned the clip. “@allybrooke Thank you so much for this! Truly honored you choose this song to honor her.”

The emotional performance comes months after Brooke honored Selena’s memory with a powerful dance of “Dreaming of You,” alongside partner Sasha Farber, during Movie Night Week on Dancing With the Stars.

Masizzo released a new single with a lyric video for “Insuficiente,” on December 7.

“Insuficiente,” written by Wences Romo, is the first single from the group with new drummer Joey “JMZ” Jimenez. The talented baterista spent eight years with Siggno until leaving the band in January to pursue other interests, eventually joining Masizzo this past August.

Original band member Bryan Ramirez spoke about the addition of Jimenez and his nephew Isaias Ramirez as lead vocalist for the next edition of Masizzo. “Joey just wasn’t going to go with any band, we know that,” he told Tejano Nation in a recent interview. “What he saw in Masizzo and what he saw in my nephew really helped his decision out and this is where we’re at now and God knows what’s in store.”

“Having him, Joey, in the band and my nephew, to me, it’s changed the band, it’s changed the whole perception of us, I guess, people have noticed more what we’re doing,” he added. “With the new album coming out and new songs coming out, we’re going to show them what we can do.”

Masizzo — “Insuficiente”

Subscribe to Tejano Nation on YouTube

Conjunto pioneer Henry Zimmerle passes away at 79

Netflix adds seven to 'Selena: The Series' cast

Gilbert Fierros of Los Chamacos on his Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame induction, more [VIDEO]

Joe Lopez to release 'special surprise' on Nov. 29

'Llegó Navidad' from Monterrey Music features Joe Lopez [AUDIO]

Jesse Turner of Siggno recovering after ER visit for 'intense pain'

Gabriel Zavala plays major role in success of new artists

'Papito and the Squeezebox' is new children's book celebrating Tejano culture

Latin Grammy winners Roger Velasquez & The Latin Legendz on TMA performance, new music [VIDEO]

J.R. Gomez to Host 2nd Annual Toy Drive December 6 in Austin

Pio Treviño returns with new single 'Orgullosa Mujer' on Dec. 13

David Lee Garza Y Los Musicales premiere 'Destellame' official music video

Los Musicales lead singer Cezar Martinez arrested for DWI

Destiny Navaira drops 'Entrégate, Entrégate' single + official music video

Grupo Negami on upcoming toy drive, live concert CD/DVD + more

Konjunto Kompaz host 2nd annual toy drive on Dec. 6 in San Benito to benefit Toys for Tots

Art Tigerina teams with Chris Castaneda on "What Child Is This?" for your holiday playlist [AUDIO]

Eddie Gonzalez on Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame induction, upcoming music + more [VIDEO]

Ally Brooke honors Selena with medley of hits at Miss Universe pageant

Masizzo drops lyric video for latest single 'Insuficiente' [AUDIO]