Abel Talamantez Joins La Fiebre as Legendary Tejano Group Turns the Page

PASADENA, Texas — Change isn’t always easy, but in Tejano music, it’s often the spark that keeps a legacy alive.

La Fiebre, one of the genre’s most iconic and enduring groups, has officially welcomed Abel Talamantez as its new lead vocalist. The move signals a fresh chapter for the original La Fiebre — proudly known as “The Pride of Pasadena!” — as the band recommits to honoring its storied history while confidently moving forward.

The announcement was made by La Fiebre’s leadership, led by co-owners Rudy Rocha and Joe Angel Reynosa, who expressed full confidence in the direction of the band with Talamantez at the front.

“He’s leading us through this new season, and we couldn’t be more confident in the direction we’re headed,” the band said in a statement. “We’ve been working hard behind the scenes and with Abel Talamantez at the front, we aren’t looking back! To our fans: thank you for your unwavering love and support. Get ready for the next chapter!”

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Talamantez brings experience, passion, and an unmistakable voice to La Fiebre, qualities the group believes align with its mission to respect the past while continuing to grow. The Latin Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, choreographer, and producer is a former member of Menudo, Kumbia Kings, and Los Super Reyes.

Booking inquiries for the band are now being handled by Jim Luna at +1 (979) 665-1923.

A Legacy Nearly Four Decades Strong

Formed in Pasadena, Texas, in 1985, La Fiebre rose to prominence in the 1990s with electrifying live performances, bold brass arrangements, and a signature fusion of Tejano, rock, and big band influences. The group delivered genre-defining 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 spanned nearly 40 years.

In 2025, La Fiebre marked its 40th anniversary with the release of Raíces and a new recording deal with the legendary Freddie Records, underscoring the enduring power and relevance of the La Fiebre name within Tejano music.

Confusion, Division, and Legal Matters

The announcement of Talamantez’s addition arrives amid broader and more complicated developments surrounding the La Fiebre brand. Earlier this month, co-owner Luis Ayala announced his own version of the band under the banner “The Ones You Know,” featuring musicians who have parted ways with La Fiebre over the past few months.

In December, Rocha and Reynosa confirmed to Tejano Nation that they are currently involved in litigation with Ayala, highlighting the internal disputes tied to the long-running group. While legal matters continue to unfold, the original La Fiebre has emphasized its commitment to clarity, continuity, and honoring its roots.

Fans Speak From the Heart

As with many legendary bands navigating change, fans have voiced a mix of confusion, loyalty, hope, and nostalgia. Longtime La Fiebre fan Mary Alice Tijerina captured those emotions in a widely shared social media post:

“So my favorite all-time Tejano band split up. Each side recreating a new band. Fans are confused!!! Why did I fall in love with La Fiebre???? Pete Espinoza was the voice that did it for me!!! … Do we still love him??? YES WE DO!!! Can both bands make it??? Yes. Will they sound like the ORIGINAL LA FIEBRE???? No. They will both create new sounds, new memories and new fans!!!

What happens to us loyal, original fans??? We keep playing the old school La Fiebre songs we have saved on our playlist and reminisce of the old days!!!

Do we wish both bands luck? Yes we do!!! But deep down we wish they could work it out.”

Her words reflect what many in the Tejano community are feeling — a deep attachment to the past, paired with cautious optimism for what lies ahead.

For La Fiebre, the message is clear: the journey continues. With Abel Talamantez stepping into the spotlight, the original Pride of Pasadena is betting on growth, resilience, and the belief that honoring history doesn’t mean standing still.

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