The Tejano music community is mourning the loss of Omar Cardenas, a talented and beloved musician who recently passed away. The Grammy-nominated bassist, known for his work with La Diferenzia and The Cardenas Project, was celebrated for his deep passion for music and unwavering love for family.
His family shared the heartbreaking news on social media, writing, “With heavy hearts, the Cardenas Family shares the passing of our beloved Omar — a father, grandfather, brother, son and lifelong musician whose love for music and family touched everyone around him. His rhythm will forever live on in our hearts.”
Cardenas, who spent decades performing across the Midwest and Texas, was a fixture in the Tejano scene. As a member of the Grammy-nominated group La Diferenzia, his bass lines helped shape some of the genre’s most memorable sounds. Later, he continued performing with his family band, The Cardenas Project, keeping his musical legacy alive through every note.
The Cardenas family has organized a GoFundMe fundraiser to help cover funeral and memorial expenses and to celebrate Omar’s life and legacy. The page reflects on his journey and the impact he left behind:
“Omar spent decades doing what he loved most — playing bass with his brothers in Tejano bands across the Midwest and Texas, including La Diferenzia. His music connected people, filled dance floors, and became part of countless memories for those lucky enough to hear him play. His presence, his music, and his larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed.”
Tributes have poured in from across the Tejano music community, with fans, fellow musicians, and friends remembering Cardenas not only for his immense talent but also for his humor, kindness, and love for connecting with people.
Funeral service details have yet to be announced. Tejano Nation will share updates as more information becomes available.
To support the Cardenas family and honor Omar’s memory, donations can be made through the GoFundMe fundraiser titled “Celebrating the Life of Omar Cardenas.”
Omar’s rhythm — the one that carried through his life and ours — will always be with us.
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I first played with Omar when he played trombone in our family band Los Primos Cardenas Orchestra. Since I was the drummer I could see the band from “the back”…but Omar always turned to say “sounds good cuz”. Then he eventually wanted to play bass. Another cousin, Arnie Cardenas lent him one. Since we also were influenced by other musicians and jazz…with in a year, Omar at 15 was not only playing Tejano standards but Jeff Lorber Fusion and some Brecker Brothers ON BASS like them! I have had the privilege to play off and on with him for over 40 years. I and so many will miss not only jamming, playing and recording his amazing bass but just hanging out having a cold one and talking life. Love you primo, always…Arturo Cardenas Jr.
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