Tejano ROOTS Hall of Famer Jonny Martinez passes away

Jonny Martinez accepts the Male Entertainer of the Year award at Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Alice, Texas, on January 4, 2025. | Credit: Isaac Castillo / Tejano Nation

The Tejano music community is mourning the loss of Tejano ROOTS Hall of Famer Jonny Martinez, who passed away on March 12, 2026, at the age of 56.

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News of the beloved singer’s passing quickly spread across social media late Thursday and early Friday as fellow artists, musicians, and fans shared tributes remembering Martinez’s contributions to Tejano and country music. Among those paying tribute was fellow artist Chente Barrera, who posted a photo of Martinez with the simple message: “RIP Jonny Martinez.”

Martinez had recently been hospitalized after suffering complications following open-heart surgery he underwent last September. According to an online fundraiser created to assist with his medical and recovery expenses, the San Antonio-based artist required a heart valve replacement. The fundraiser noted that Martinez experienced complications that required additional hospitalization.

Born and raised in San Antonio, Martinez built a reputation as one of the genre’s most authentic voices, blending Tejano, Tex-Mex, and traditional country influences into a distinctive sound that resonated with fans across Texas and beyond. He began recording music in 1988 and went on to release several well-known albums, including Caminos Chuecos, Ron Con Coca Cola, Mujer Mexicana, La Callejera, Lo Mejor de Jonny Martinez, Dedicado A Mi Madre, and Admirando a Mi Padre.

Beyond his work as a performer, Martinez also played a role behind the scenes in the music industry as the owner and producer of AMI Records Latin, helping support and develop music rooted in Tejano traditions.

Music and culture ran deep in Martinez’s family. He was the son of Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame inductee Anselmo “El Chemiro” Martinez, a respected figure in the genre who passed away in 2020.

Together, father and son represented generations of Tejano heritage, preserving and celebrating the traditional sounds that define the music.

Jonny Martinez’s passing marks a significant loss for the Tejano community, where he was admired for his dedication to keeping traditional Tejano and Tex-Mex music alive while blending it with country influences that broadened his appeal.

This is a developing story. Tejano Nation will provide updates as more details become available.

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