This is an opinion piece submitted by retired second-generation Tejano radio personality and journalist Abegail Chavarrilla. It was not written by Tejano Nation. To submit opinion pieces, please send them to John Henry Medina at jmedina@tejanonation.net.
To say that I am disappointed in the Tejano Music Awards is an understatement. Quite frankly, I’m outraged! The person receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award on October 21st is a convicted sex offender and a registered sex offender for the rest of his life.
There was a time when the TTMAs were considered a very prestigious event. Fans of Tejano music came from all over the country to show their love for all things Tejano. I love all kinds of music, especially Tejano music!
As a child in the early 70s, I grew up literally carrying my father Abel Chavarrilla’s records (vinyl) to do his radio show. I would answer the phone and take down dedications, Until one day my dad said, “Ok you’re ready togo on the air.” For almost 50 years I lived and breathed Tejano music. From KXTN in San Antonio, to KQQK in Houston, to Corpus Christi, Freeport and other small towns in between. I mention this because I would like everyone to know that while I am now retired, my Tejano credentials are solid.
After producing the awards for 43 years, the legacy of The Tejano Music Awards has been perpetually tarnished. The person receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award should not be receiving this award. Can you imagine if R Kelly were to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award? The world would be up in arms. Yes, Joe Lopez is a very talented singer and songwriter. Some people believe that since he did his jail time for his crime, all should be forgiven and Tejano music fans should forgive and forget and move on. What about the victim? She was 13 years old. She doesn’t have the luxury of moving on. What are we telling the young men and women in our communities? That men who commit this type of crime can pay the price by going to jail and be celebrated with accolades once they are out?
Joe Lopez is a registered sex offender for the rest of his life. The TTMA (Texas Talent Musicians Association) has the responsibility to make sure it is an 18 years of age and over show and that no minors will be allowed to attend. Imagine if this was your child. What is a “just penalty”?
As far as I am concerned, Joe Lopez lost his right to be celebrated and to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award the day he was convicted by a jury of his peers in the Rio Grande Valley.
Abegail Chavarrilla (retired)
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