Remembering a Texas Legend

Flaco Jimenez, who died at the age of 86 on JUL 31 2025, could play the accordion like no one else. His contributions to Conjunto, Tejano and Latin music are almost without limit.

Even if you weren’t a big fan of those kinds of music, listening to Flaco made it hard not to get caught up in the energy and joy that radiates through with every song he plays.

Flaco, who hailed from San Antonio, my hometown, was a member of the Texas Tornados, along with Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers and Freddy Fender. Winning six Grammy awards, Flaco’s songwriting, singing and playing filled dance halls around the world, bringing people from all walks of life together. This musical giant’s talent led to collaborations with The Rolling Stones, Linda Ronstadt, Dwight Yoakam, Carlos Santana and others.“(Hey Baby) Que Paso” and “Mendocino” are among songs the Texas Tornados made famous.

I was lucky enough to watch Flaco and Augie perform at Floore Country Store in Helotes one summer night many years ago and even luckier to meet both afterward. On the scale of life’s fun events, that night in Helotes would be hard to top.

And now, Augie is the last remaining Texas Tornado.

If you’re curious about Flaco’s music, a quick search of the Internet will yield plenty of his music. I double dog dare you not to tap your feet while listening…