La Fiebre’s Abel Talamantez Teases New Album, Unreleased Freddie Martinez Song Ahead of Freddie Records Showcase

La Fiebre is embracing a bold new chapter, and according to new lead vocalist Abel Talamantez, the iconic Tejano powerhouse is only getting started.

During an appearance on The Bo Corona Show on Friday (Aug. 7), Talamantez reflected on his remarkable musical journey—from performing with his father’s West Texas band as a child to becoming a member of Menudo, MDO, Kumbia Kings, Los Super Reyes, and now fronting “The Pride of Pasadena.” He also shared exciting updates on La Fiebre’s upcoming album and what fans can expect during the Freddie Records Artist Showcase on Friday, Aug. 14, at Texas Rodeo Saloon in Katy, Texas. 

“It’s good to be in Tejano music. That’s what I know since I was a little kid,” Talamantez said. “Some people ask how I went from Menudo back to La Fiebre or Kumbia Kings, but for me this is where I come from.”

A New Chapter for La Fiebre

Talamantez joined La Fiebre earlier this year as part of the band’s revitalized lineup led by original founders Rudy Rocha and Joe Angel Reynosa, ushering in a fresh era while preserving the unmistakable sound that made the Pasadena-based group one of Tejano music’s most influential bands. The refreshed lineup also includes the return of original horn player Rick Patino, Abel’s brother Rey Talamantez, and several accomplished musicians helping shape the band’s future.

After making its debut performance in February, the band has spent much of 2026 touring while simultaneously recording its long-awaited 16th studio album at Freddie Records’ Legends Sound Studios in Corpus Christi. 

“We’re working on a new album. We’re touring,” Talamantez said. “We’re representing Tejano music to the fullest… representing our flag, our colors, our culture.”

Recording at Freddie Records

For Talamantez, recording at the legendary Freddie Records studio was a milestone.

“The first time I’ve been into Freddie Records, to tell you the truth,” he admitted. “I had always passed by it and wanted to go inside, but it had never happened until now.”

He described the experience as stepping into a living museum of Tejano music.

“It sort of feels like a museum. You can definitely smell the history when you see all those plaques all over those hallways,” he said. “It’s a great space to just get in there and make some magic happen. It’s the perfect environment. We got a hot album coming out.”

The creative process has become a collaborative effort, with Rocha, Reynosa, Patino, producer Mariano Herrera, and the rest of the musicians contributing ideas while staying true to La Fiebre’s signature sound.

“Joe and Rudy definitely have a lot to say, and they hold very clear the vision of the band,” Talamantez explained. “It’s a great team. It all comes together.”

A Freddie Martinez Surprise

While Talamantez wouldn’t reveal many details about the upcoming album, he did share one major surprise.

During the Freddie Records Artist Showcase, La Fiebre will perform several songs made famous by Freddie Martinez Sr. as a tribute to the legendary label founder.

“We’re going to be singing some Freddie Martinez Sr. tracks in honor to him that night,” Talamantez said. “That’s going to be real special.”

Then came an even bigger revelation.

“We are definitely blessed with an original Freddie Martinez Sr. song that has never been heard before.”

The previously unreleased composition is expected to appear on La Fiebre’s forthcoming album, although Talamantez stopped short of revealing its title.

Honoring a Tejano Legend

The Freddie Records Artist Showcase will celebrate the extraordinary legacy of Freddie Martinez Sr., whose iconic label has helped shape generations of Tejano artists. The event features an all-star lineup including Gary Hobbs, Jay Perez, David Lee Garza y Los Musicales, Pio Treviño y Magic, Mike Gonzalez & The Iconiczz, and La Fiebre. Fans will also have opportunities for autograph sessions and photos with the artists throughout the evening. 

Bo Corona also noted during the interview that Martinez is expected to attend the event, with speculation that the Tejano legend may even make a special appearance on stage.

“One Night Only”

Talamantez closed the interview by inviting fans from across Texas to experience what he believes will be one of the year’s most memorable Tejano events.

“It’s going down Friday, August 14th at Texas Rodeo Saloon in Katy, Texas,” he said. “La Fiebre’s coming in hot. We got all the hits. We’ve got a bunch of surprises, some very, very special guests on stage with us.

“It’s going to be a beautiful night with a lot of talented groups. We want to invite everybody to not miss it. It’s one night only. Come sing, dance, and have the night of your life.”

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