Tejano and Conjunto Legend Flaco Jiménez Passes Away at 86

SAN ANTONIO, TX — The Tejano and conjunto music world is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic and influential figures. Flaco Jiménez, the Grammy-winning accordionist whose musical legacy spanned more than seven decades, passed away on Thursday night, July 31, 2025, at the age of 86. According to a heartfelt statement shared by the Jiménez family on social media, the legendary musician was “surrounded by his loved ones” and will be “missed immensely.”

“It is with great sadness that we share tonight the loss of our father, Flaco Jimenez,” the statement read. “Thank you to all of his fans and friends—those who cherished his music. And a big thank you for all of the memories. His legacy will live on through his music and all of his fans. The family requests privacy during this time of sadness and grievance.”

Born Leonardo “Flaco” Jiménez on March 11, 1939, in San Antonio, Texas, he was destined to become a cultural treasure. He was a fifth-generation musician and the son of conjunto pioneer Santiago Jiménez Sr., from whom he inherited both his love for music and his unparalleled skills on the accordion. By the time he was seven years old, Flaco was already playing alongside his father, quickly developing a signature sound that would help redefine the genre of conjunto and elevate it to new heights.

Flaco’s career took off in the 1950s with his own band, but he would eventually cross over into the mainstream and international spotlight thanks to his collaborations with artists such as the Texas Tornados (with Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers, and Freddy Fender), Ry Cooder, Dwight Yoakam, the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Emmylou Harris. His ability to bridge cultural and musical divides made him a beloved figure not only in Tejano and Mexican-American communities but around the globe.

Over the course of his career, Flaco Jiménez earned five Grammy Awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015. He was also honored with the National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts in 1999, one of the highest honors given to folk and traditional artists in the United States. His 1992 album Partners, featuring a collection of duets with notable artists, remains one of his most celebrated works.

In addition to his Grammy honors, Flaco was inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame and was named to the Tejano Music Hall of Fame. His influence is deeply embedded in the DNA of contemporary Tejano, norteño, and conjunto music.

Despite declining health in recent years, Flaco’s passion for music never waned. Even as rumors about his health circulated following his hospitalization, fans remained hopeful. With the confirmation of his passing, the Tejano and global music community now turns to celebrate a remarkable life that brought joy, culture, and pride to millions through his unmistakable accordion stylings.

Flaco Jiménez is survived by his children and a grateful world of fans, musicians, and music lovers. His legacy will continue through the countless recordings, memories, and inspiration he leaves behind.

As the music world bids farewell to this irreplaceable icon, one thing remains certain—Flaco Jiménez’s music will live forever in the hearts of generations to come.

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