Music legend Little Joe shared a heartfelt message on his 84th birthday, just days after the passing of his wife Criselda Cantu Hernandez, and his oldest sister Lupe.
In a poignant message shared on social media by Little Joe y La Familia, the Tejano music icon and his family expressed gratitude for the love and support received during this difficult time. The message read, “We want to thank everyone for their continued love and comfort during our time of grief. Today we celebrate Joe’s 84th birthday, thankful as ever to be with him. Below is a photo of Joe with his wife Cris and late mother Amelia.”
Joe asked to share this message with everyone:
“84 years ago, my mom was in a three-wall dirt floor car garage, giving birth to me on a cold, rainy night. Once the water got ankle-deep, they evacuated us from the garage. Although this is my saddest birthday, I have a whole life of goodness to celebrate because of the people that have touched my soul. Thank you for lending your ear.”
In an exclusive discussion with Tejano Nation journalist Ramon Hernandez, Little Joe opened up about the profound loss of his wife and sister just days apart. “Cris died Thursday morning (October 10), and I had to leave Friday. It was the hardest thing I had to do but I got it done. I got it done,” Little Joe said, his voice cracking with emotion. “Sixty-nine years together,” he continued, his voice trailing off, unable to finish the sentence. “Then, when I got back, my dear, dear sister Lupe passed away yesterday (October 14), four days after Cris. Again, I wasn’t going to say anything about Lupe, but I love my sister, and people should also know that she’s gone.”
Little Joe has been a pioneering force in Tejano music for over six decades. Known as the “King of the Brown Sound,” he has seamlessly fused traditional norteño music with country, blues, and rock influences to create a distinctive Tejano sound. Throughout his illustrious career, Little Joe has recorded more than 70 albums and earned multiple Grammy Awards, solidifying his place as a legend in the music industry.
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I am so sorry for your losses, Little Joe. May God put his hand on you for comfort and heal your heart.
One of your million fans,
Maria Garcia from Madison, Wisconsin
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sorry for your loss prayers for you and your family they will be watching over you from heaven sending my condolences
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May God comfort your pain just remember God is always with us talk to him he listening to you and you will feel peace 🕊️
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sending my condolences on the loss of your wife nd your sister. I pray the the good Lord will give you guidance, strength, nd comfort to help you thru this difficult time. Prayers that your loved ones rest in peace. 🙏🙏
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Joe just know that our Lord will provide you with strength in this difficult time of loss. Know that many love you and are here to lift you and your family in prayer.
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