Saturday, August 2, 2025

Legendary Tex-Mex Music Icon Flaco Jiménez Dies at 86

The music world is mourning the loss of Flaco Jiménez, the Grammy-winning American accordionist and singer who helped bring Tex-Mex music to global recognition. The celebrated musician passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at the age of 86.

News of his death was confirmed by his family in a heartfelt Facebook post, which read:
“It’s with great sadness we share the loss of our father, Flaco Jiménez. He was surrounded by loved ones and will be missed immensely.”

The statement also acknowledged the outpouring of love and support from fans across the world. While expressing their gratitude, the Jiménez family also requested privacy during this difficult time.
“We are grateful for your love and support over the years, and we kindly ask for privacy as we navigate this profound loss,” the post added.

Born Leonardo “Flaco” Jiménez in San Antonio, Texas, in 1939, Jiménez’s contributions to music spanned more than seven decades. A pioneer of the Conjunto and Tejano sound, his vibrant accordion playing and crossover collaborations helped bring regional Mexican music to mainstream audiences, from the American Southwest to global stages.

Jiménez began performing publicly at the tender age of seven, inspired by his father, Santiago Jiménez Sr., a pioneer in conjunto music. By his teenage years, Flaco had already developed a signature style that fused traditional Mexican sounds with country, rock, and blues influences — a blend that would later define his musical identity and legacy.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Flaco Jiménez became a symbol of cultural pride for the Mexican-American community. He earned six Grammy Awards and one Latin Grammy, honoring his outstanding contributions to Latin and Americana music. His technical brilliance on the accordion and his infectious stage energy made him an icon, both in Latin music circles and beyond.

Among his most celebrated achievements was his role as a founding member of the Grammy Award-winning groups Texas Tornados and Los Super Seven — two supergroups that brought together some of the most talented musicians in roots and Latin music. With the Texas Tornados, Jiménez shared the stage with fellow legends Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers, and Freddy Fender, creating an electrifying fusion of Tex-Mex, rock, country, and R&B that thrilled audiences across the United States and Latin America.

In addition to his group work, Flaco was a sought-after collaborator. He recorded and performed with a wide range of renowned artists, including Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Ry Cooder, Dwight Yoakam, Emmylou Harris, Linda Ronstadt, and Carlos Santana. His versatility and ability to cross musical boundaries earned him critical acclaim and expanded the reach of accordion-driven music far beyond traditional audiences.

In 2015, Jiménez received the National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts, the highest honor bestowed upon traditional artists in the United States. That same year, he was also inducted into the Tejano Music Hall of Fame, solidifying his position as one of the most influential cultural figures in American music history.

Flaco’s musical journey reflected a deep respect for his roots and a fearless commitment to innovation. His mastery of the accordion and his unique voice helped define an entire genre, giving Tex-Mex music a permanent place in the tapestry of American sound.

Despite his fame, Jiménez was known for his humility and love for community. He frequently returned to his native San Antonio, performing at local events and mentoring young musicians. For many, he was not only a musical legend but also a symbol of cultural preservation and pride.

Tributes have begun to pour in from fans, artists, and public figures following news of his passing.
“Flaco Jiménez was a giant — not just in Tex-Mex music but in the heart of American music as a whole. His influence will never fade,” wrote Mexican-American singer and actor Linda Ronstadt, who collaborated with Jiménez on multiple occasions.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott also paid tribute, tweeting:
“We have lost a Texas treasure. Flaco Jiménez’s music told stories of joy, struggle, and heritage. His legacy will live forever through the music that defined generations.”

The Latin Recording Academy, in a public statement, called him “a musical bridge between cultures, whose work celebrated unity, diversity, and artistry.”

As fans across the world remember his music, videos of his legendary performances have resurfaced online — from high-energy sets with Texas Tornados to soulful duets with international stars.

Though Flaco Jiménez is no longer physically with us, his accordion, his voice, and his cultural influence continue to echo across time and borders. For those who loved his music, every note played on an accordion is now a tribute to his legacy.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and a legion of fans who will forever cherish the memories and melodies he gifted the world.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days. As per the family’s request, mourners are asked to respect their privacy during this period of grief.


About Flaco Jiménez – Key Highlights:

  • Born: March 11, 1939, San Antonio, Texas
  • Died: July 31, 2025, aged 86
  • Six-time Grammy Award winner
  • Founding member of Texas Tornados and Los Super Seven
  • Collaborated with Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Linda Ronstadt, Carlos Santana, and more
  • National Heritage Fellow (2015)
  • Inducted into Tejano Music Hall of Fame
  • Champion of Tex-Mex and Conjunto music

 

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