San Antonio, Texas, August 1, 2025
News Summary
Flaco Jimenez, a Grammy Award-winning Tejano artist from San Antonio, Texas, has died at the age of 86. Known for his mastery of the accordion and significant contributions to the Tejano and conjunto music genres, Jimenez leaves behind a rich legacy praised for its cultural impact. His family announced his passing on social media, expressing gratitude for the love and support he received throughout his career. Jimenez’s music resonated with audiences for nearly seven decades, making him a beloved figure in North American music.
San Antonio, Texas – Flaco Jimenez, a distinguished Grammy Award-winning Tejano artist, has passed away at the age of 86, as announced by his family on social media late Thursday night. Surrounded by loved ones in his final moments, Jimenez’s family expressed their profound sadness while also voicing gratitude to fans and friends who have treasured his music and memories over the years.
The beloved musician faced a medical hurdle that led to his hospitalization on January 12, marking a challenging chapter in his life. Despite the hardships he encountered, Jimenez’s contributions to music, particularly in Tejano and conjunto genres, have left an indelible mark on North American music culture.
Musical Achievements and Legacy
Flaco Jimenez was renowned for his skillful accordion playing and significant achievements in the realm of Tejano music. He won a total of six Grammy Awards throughout his lifetime, including the prestigious Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015. His album “Partners” was recognized in 2021 by the U.S. Library of Congress, which selected it for the National Recording Registry and honored Jimenez as a “champion of traditional conjunto music and Tex-Mex culture” known for his innovative style.
Born on March 11, 1939, in San Antonio, Flaco Jimenez was introduced to music at a young age, influenced by his father, Santiago Jiménez Sr., a pioneer of conjunto music. By the age of seven, he began performing in his father’s band, initially playing the 12-string Mexican guitar before embracing the accordion, which became his iconic instrument.
Collaborations and Projects
Throughout his illustrious career, Jimenez collaborated with various renowned artists, including Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones. He was also a member of influential bands such as the Texas Tornados and Los Super Seven. One of his notable contributions was to the 1988 hit “Streets of Bakersfield,” alongside artists Dwight Yoakam and Buck Owens. Under the Texas Tornados, he achieved Grammy recognition with the song “Soy de San Luis.”
In appreciation of his impact on music, a special line of signature Hohner accordions was created in his honor. Further solidifying his legacy, Jimenez was recognized with the Founder of the Sound award at the Ameripolitan Awards in 2024. Throughout his nearly seven-decade career, his music has woven rich Hispanic influences into the fabric of North American music.
Conclusion
The passing of Flaco Jimenez marks a significant loss in the musical community, leaving behind a rich legacy celebrated for its contributions to Tejano and conjunto music. His music continues to resonate, encapsulating the vibrant culture and traditions of his heritage.
FAQs
Who was Flaco Jimenez?
Flaco Jimenez was a Grammy Award-winning Tejano artist known for his accordion playing and contributions to conjunto music, with a career spanning nearly seven decades.
What are Flaco Jimenez’s notable achievements?
He won six Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and his album “Partners” was included in the National Recording Registry by the U.S. Library of Congress in 2021.
What type of music did Flaco Jimenez play?
Flaco Jimenez was best known for Tejano music and conjunto, showcasing the accordion as his signature instrument.
When did Flaco Jimenez pass away?
Flaco Jimenez passed away at the age of 86, with his family announcing his death late Thursday night.
What was Flaco Jimenez’s influence on music?
Flaco Jimenez is celebrated for his innovations in conjunto and Tejano music, collaborating with numerous artists and significantly contributing to the cultural fabric of North American music.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Weekend Events in San Antonio
Celebrating 46 Years of Musical Dedication in San Antonio
Houston Bids Farewell to ‘The Bo Corona Show’
San Antonio Set to Host Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair 2025
San Antonio Schools Support Immigrant Families’ Safety
Selena Shines at Hard Rock Cafe Grand Opening in San Antonio
San Antonio Welcomes New Pumpers Burger Joint
San Antonio Celebrates Arts and Culture with Grants
Flaco Jiménez’s Recovery Brings Hope to San Antonio
Flaco Jiménez Hospitalized: A Concern for the Conjunto Community
Additional Resources
- KSAT News
- Wikipedia: Flaco Jiménez
- KENS 5
- Google Search: Flaco Jimenez
- Express News
- Google Scholar: Flaco Jimenez
- WION News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flaco Jimenez
- Hindustan Times
- Google News: Flaco Jimenez
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
