Flaco Jimenez, Pioneering Conjunto Accordionist, Dies at 86
Briefly

Leonardo "Flaco" Jiménez, a celebrated singer, songwriter, and accordionist, passed away at the age of 86. Over a 70-year career, he popularized Tex-Mex music, rooted in his native South Texas. Born in San Antonio to a family of musicians, he became proficient with the accordion at age seven, inspired by his father's artistry. Known for his vibrant performances, Jiménez was a key figure in the conjunto genre and co-founded the Texas Tornados supergroup, contributing to numerous albums and collaborations with artists like Bob Dylan.
Leonardo "Flaco" Jiménez was a pioneering musician known for his skill on the accordion and contributions to conjunto and Tex-Mex music, with a career spanning over 70 years.
Jiménez learned to play the accordion at age seven, inspired by his father, and developed a distinctive style that combined traditional sounds with his unique flair.
As a prominent figure in the Tex-Mex genre, Jiménez collaborated with major artists and helped popularize Mexican music, earning a reputation throughout Texas and beyond.
He was a founding member of the Texas Tornados, a conjunto supergroup, marking significant milestones and creating a legacy that resonated with audiences for decades.
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