Flaco Jiménez, San Antonio-born accordion whose music has been a hallmark of Tex-Mex, Tejano and Conjunto Music for seven decades, died Thursday, according to a statement from their family. No cause of death was announced; He was 86.
“It is with great sadness that we share the loss of our father tonight, Flaco Jimenez,” the family wrote in a post on Facebook. “He was surrounded by his loved ones and will be incredibly missing. Thanks to all his fans and friends – those who cared for his music. And a big thank you for all the memories. His heritage will live on through his music and all his fans. The family is demanding privacy during this time of grief and (sorrow).
Among many other awards, Jiménez won six Grammy awards between 1987 and 2015, including one for life. During his career he performed as a soloist and session musician and as a member of the popular groups Texas Tornados and Los Super Seven.
Born in San Antonio, Texas 1939, was Jiménez’s descendant of a long line of Mexican musicians. He began to perform at the age of seven with his father, Conunto Music Pioneer Santiago Jiménez, and began to record at the age of 15 with the Los Caporales group. He later shifted to compliance from his first instrument, Bajo Sexto, and brought a little Zydeco into his style through an influence from the legendary Louisiana musician Clipon Chenier.
In the 1960s he began working with the legendary Texas musician Doug Sahm (co-founder of Sir Douglas Quintet) and over the years he would continue to work with Dr. John, Ry Cood, Bob Dylan and Rolling Stones. He released his first solo album, “Una Sombra,” 1972, the first of more than 25 albums over five decades on various labels, from DLB and Arhoolie to Warner Bros. And Arista.
He won his first Grammy in 1987 for his album “Ay Te Dejo a San Antonio”, whose title song was composed by his father. He won another Grammy for another song written by his father, “Soy de San Luis,” recorded with Texas Tornados, which also included Sahm and Freddy Fender.
His music has been presented on soundtracks for many films, including “y tu mamá también,” “El infierno”, “The border”, “Chulas fronted” and more. But perhaps the most suitable tribute to his heritage is Flaco Jimenez Signature series of accordion, created by Hohner Music Company.