Legendary Tejano musician Jose “Pepper” Gonzalez passed away from COVID-19 complications on Wednesday (Sept. 8). The guitarist was an original member of the iconic group La Sombra and most recently a member of Pio Treviño Y Magic.
Gonzalez was inducted into the Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame in 2014 for a career that spanned more than four decades, beginning in 1985 as a member of La Sombra. The native of Aurora, Illinois was part of “The Windy City Boys” for several years recording on many classic hits and albums. He spent a few years as a member of Grupo Beso and eventually as guitarist for Pio Treviño Y Magic for the past 10 years. He is considered one of the greatest guitarists in the Tejano music industry.
Freddie Records, the record label for Pio Treviño Y Magic, released a statement about the passing of Gonzalez via social media. “The Martinez Family and the entire staff of Freddie Records is saddened to hear of the passing of Jose ‘Pepper’ Gonzalez. Pepper was considered by many to be one of the very best guitarists in the Tejano music industry. Always friendly and soft-spoken, Pepper let his guitar do the talking for him. For the last 10 years, Pepper has been the guitarist for Freddie Records artist, the legendary Pio Treviño Y Majic. On behalf of all of us here at Freddie Records, we wish to extend our sincerest condolences to Pepper’s family, friends, the Majic organization, and countless fans who’ve enjoyed his music throughout the years. He will be greatly missed. RIP Pepper.”
Tejano Nation sends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Jose “Pepper” Gonzalez.
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