Legendary musician Flaco Jimenez passes away at the age of 86, leaving an enduring impact in the world of music.
Flaco Jimenez, Legendary Accordionist and Singer, Passes Away at 86
Flaco Jimenez, a Grammy-winning musician and a pioneer in Norteño, Tex-Mex, and Tejano music, passed away at the age of 86. His family confirmed the news and expressed their sadness, stating, "It is with great sadness that we share tonight the loss of our father."
Jimenez had been fighting illness for a few months prior to his death. He was hospitalized in January, just before his birthday in March. According to The San Antonio Express News, his last words were, "I'm tired." The cause of his death was a "medical hurdle."
Born into a musical family, Jimenez started his career as a performer at the age of seven with his father's band. He was known for his distinctive accordion playing and soulful vocals. His early instrument was the bajo sexto, but he later adopted the accordion, which became his signature.
Throughout his seven-decade career, Jimenez collaborated with major artists such as Bob Dylan, Ry Cooder, the Rolling Stones, and Linda Ronstadt, earning him an international reputation as a sought-after accordion player. He was a member of prominent groups like the Texas Tornados and Los Super Seven and had a strong solo career with albums released on D.L.B. Records.
Jimenez's collaborations include Ry Cooder's 1976 album Chicken Skin Music and performances on shows like Saturday Night Live in 1976. He also won a Grammy for Best Mexican-American performance for his album Ay Te Dejo en San Antonio in 1987.
Jimenez received numerous honors, including Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Grammy Awards, Americana Music Awards, Tejano Music Awards, and Billboard magazine. His work with Doug Sahm and recordings with Los Caporales are particularly noteworthy.
Flaco Jimenez will be remembered for his pioneering accordion work in Tex-Mex and Tejano music, his influential collaborations with artists across genres, and his multiple prestigious lifetime achievement honors recognizing his contributions to American music. He will be missed immensely by his family, friends, and fans.
His legacy will forever be a part of the world's entertainment, with celebrities across cultures commemorating his passing. The US music industry mourns the loss of a great musician, as Flaco Jimenez transcended boundaries with his unique style and talent. Despite his departure, his music will continue to entertain generations to come, in the realm of both Tex-Mex and international genres.
