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.”
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