Leonardo "Flaco" Jimenez
Flaco Jimenez. Photo by Tom Pich
Bio
Leonardo “Flaco” Jimenez is an iconic American accordionist, vocalist, and songwriter from San Antonio, Texas. He is renowned for popularizing Tex-Mex and conjunto music globally. Jimenez began his musical journey at seven, performing with his famed father, Santiago Jimenez Sr. By 15, he had already recorded music with Los Caporales. Throughout his 80+-year career, Jimenez earned five Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, an NEA National Heritage Fellowship, and accolades from Billboard, Americana, and Tejano music communities. He was inducted into the National Hispanic Hall of Fame and NYC International Latin Music Hall of Fame as well as being named a Texas State Musician. He performs as a soloist, a duo, and as a featured guest for bands like Los Texmaniacs and Los Super Seven. His association with the Sir Douglas Quintet and the Texas Tornados, as well as his collaborations with music legends such as Ry Cooder and Bob Dylan, expanded conjunto music's global reach. Co-founding the Free Mexican Airforce with Peter Rowan and working with artists like Dwight Yoakum and Carlos Santana, Jimenez has left an indelible mark. He remains an active recording and performing artist in Texas, on the Texas Commission on the Arts Touring Roster. Hohner released a Flaco Jimenez Signature Series accordion in 2009, solidifying his impact. His compositions have been featured in acclaimed films such as Y Tu Mamá También and Tin Cup.
White House citation:
For harnessing heritage to enrich American music. The son of a musical family in Texas, Flaco Jimenez mastered the accordion and Spanglish lyrics as a trailblazer of Conjunto. Blending Norteño, Tex Mex, and Tejano music with the Blues, Rock n’ Roll, and Pop Music, he sings the soul of America’s Southwest.
I am deeply honored and privileged to accept this award during my lifetime. This recognition is not only a personal achievement, but also a proud moment for our culture, the city of San Antonio, and the state of Texas. Seeing our music genre celebrated on both a national and international stage is something I could never have imagined when I first started my career at a young age. When I received the news of this award, a flood of emotions came over me. This is more than just a career; it has been my life’s work, a way to take care of my family and share a piece of my soul with the world. Being acknowledged and appreciated for this work is an incredibly humbling experience. This moment fills me with excitement, gratitude, and a touch of sadness, as I regret that I am unable to attend in person. However, I find comfort in knowing that my family is there representing me and celebrating this achievement. This award is a symbol of perseverance, passion, and dedication, and I accept it with profound appreciation for everyone who has supported me along the way.