La Fiebre Welcomes New Members as Legendary Band Navigates Internal Matters

Pete Espinoza, JR Gomez — Pete Espinoza and JR Gomez | Courtesy photos

La Fiebre, one of the most iconic and influential bands in Tejano music history, has announced the addition of several new members following band tryouts held in December, marking a new chapter for the legendary group amid recent internal matters.

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In a message shared with fans, the band revealed its updated lineup while emphasizing continuity at the microphone.

“WHILE WE WERE OFF—We finally had band tryouts this December. Please welcome the new band members joining LA FIEBRE!” the band wrote, adding that Angel Cantu remains the group’s lead vocalist.

Joining La Fiebre are several highly respected veterans of the Tejano music scene:

JR Gomez (Accordion, Vocals, Studio Musician) — A Grammy-nominated musician with more than 30 years of experience performing and recording with artists such as La Fiebre, Jay Perez, Jimmy Gonzalez y Grupo Mazz, and AB Quintanilla III & The Kumbia All Starz. Gomez is a member of the Class of 2021 Tejano Roots Hall of Fame.
Raymond Anthony Garza (Keyboards, Accordion, Studio Musician) — With over three decades in the industry, Garza has worked with acts including Los AT Boyz and Sunny Sauceda. He was inducted into the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame in 2023.
Daniel Sandoval (Drums, Percussion, Studio Musician) — Bringing more than 20 years of experience, Sandoval has performed and recorded with artists such as Emilio Navaira, Art Tigerina, Rick Fuentes, and AJ Castillo.

The band also announced the return of a familiar and celebrated voice.

“We would love to welcome back our former singer, Grammy-nominated Pete Espinoza,” the band shared, noting that Espinoza will make multiple special appearances on tour and return to the studio to contribute to La Fiebre’s next album, expected next year.

The lineup announcement comes as La Fiebre continues to address internal matters that have drawn public attention in recent months. In a recent statement shared with Tejano Nation, co-founders Rudy Rocha and Joe Angel Reynosa acknowledged ongoing legal proceedings involving co-owner and longtime member Luis Ayala.

“Over the past several months, there has been public speculation and misinformation regarding internal matters involving our band and one of our members, Luis Ayala,” the statement read. “We are issuing this statement for the sake of truth and accountability.”

Rocha and Reynosa confirmed that La Fiebre is currently involved in litigation with Ayala, explaining that their previous silence was due to the legal process. However, they said recent public statements made it necessary to clarify the situation and protect the integrity of the band. Despite the challenges, the co-founders emphasized that La Fiebre has continued to perform at a high level.

In November, the band was honored with Tejano Band of the Year, though the statement noted that internal conflict created tension even during moments meant to celebrate that achievement.

Earlier this week, Ayala also addressed fans directly, seeking to reassure them about the group’s future.

“To all my fans out there. You may be hearing a few things. No need to worry, these trumpets ain’t going nowhere,” Ayala wrote on social media. “La Fiebre will still go on, STRONGER THAN EVER!!”

Formed in Pasadena, Texas, in 1986, La Fiebre—widely known as the “Pride of Pasadena”—rose to prominence in the 1990s with electrifying live performances, bold brass arrangements, and a distinctive fusion of Tejano, rock, and big band influences. The group delivered enduring hits such as “Borracho de Besos,” “El Amor Se Acaba,” and “Eres Mi Primer Amor,” earning Grammy nominations, chart success, and a fiercely loyal fanbase that has lasted nearly four decades.

In 2025, La Fiebre celebrated its 40th anniversary, released its latest album Raíces, and was named Tejano Band of the Year at the Guadalupe Awards in San Antonio. The group also recently signed a new recording deal with the legendary Freddie Records, signaling continued momentum and a renewed commitment to new music.

As La Fiebre moves forward, its leadership says the focus remains firmly on the music, the fans, and preserving the legacy of one of Tejano music’s most storied institutions—while ushering in a new era built on experience, resilience, and tradition.

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