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Ruben Ramos and Los Texmaniacs Among Featured Artists on GRAMMY-Nominated Zydeco Tribute Album

The Tejano legends join The Rolling Stones, Taj Mahal, and more on “A Tribute to the King of Zydeco,” celebrating the 100th birthday of Clifton Chenier

Ruben Ramos, Max Baca, Los Texmaniacs
Ruben Ramos and Max Baca of Los Texmaniacs. | Credit: Mariaelena Villarreal / Tejano Nation

Tejano icons Ruben Ramos and Los Texmaniacs are among the powerhouse lineup featured on A Tribute to the King of Zydeco, a star-studded album honoring Clifton Chenier, known as The King of Zydeco, which has earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Regional Roots Music Album at the 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards, airing February 1, 2026, on CBS.

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The project, recorded in Lafayette, Louisiana — where, as producers say, “even the crawfish got soul” — celebrates what would have been Chenier’s 100th birthday. It brings together an incredible roster of artists spanning generations and genres, including The Rolling StonesLucinda WilliamsTaj MahalSteve EarleAugie MeyersRuben RamosLos Texmaniacs, and many more.

Ramos teamed with Los Texmaniacs and Meyers of the Texas Tornados for “Ay Ai Ai,” the reimagined mid-1960s Gulf Coast regional hit for Chenier from the GRAMMY-nominated album.

Ruben Ramos with Los Texmaniacs and Augie Myers – Ay Ai Ai
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Ramos, affectionately known as El Gato Negro, is a two-time GRAMMY Award winner and one of the most respected voices in Tejano music, known for his smooth vocals and enduring contributions to Chicano and Tejano culture. This latest nomination marks his third career GRAMMY nod, adding another milestone to his legendary career.

This also marks Los Texmaniacs’ third GRAMMY nomination. The San Antonio-based group won Best Tejano Album at the 52nd GRAMMY Awards with Borders Y Bailes and received a nomination for Best Regional Mexican Music Album (including Tejano) for Cruzando Borders at the 61st GRAMMY Awards. Their signature blend of traditional conjunto with rock, blues, and roots influences has made them one of the most innovative forces in Tejano and Americana music today.

The tribute album pays homage to Chenier’s trailblazing influence in bringing Zydeco music — a dynamic blend of Creole, blues, and rhythm & blues — to international acclaim. Chenier’s own legacy includes a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, solidifying his place as one of Louisiana’s greatest cultural ambassadors.

A Tribute to the King of Zydeco stands as a testament to the power of music to bridge cultures, eras, and genres — uniting the heart of Louisiana with the soul of Texas and beyond.

Follow Tejano Nation for more updates on Ruben Ramos, Los Texmaniacs, and the upcoming 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards.

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